The Journey Back to the Badge: My Re-Entry into Policing
After a long and successful career, I never quit and never felt like leaving the life that I loved. From the Arizona Highway Patrol to the California Highway Patrol and beyond, my journey as a police officer has been filled with challenges, setbacks, and ultimately, great experiences.
Early Rejection and Perseverance
My path to becoming a police officer began in 1964 when I applied to the Arizona Highway Patrol. Six weeks into training, without any preparation, I was interrogated and subsequently terminated. My mother was confused and upset, but the response from the Arizona Highway Patrol was clear: I was too intelligent and educated. The logical conclusion was that I would get bored after six months and leave.
Devastated but determined, I applied to the California Highway Patrol in 1968. This time, the road to acceptance seemed long and treacherous. English proficiency tests, background checks, and fitness evaluations were only the beginning. I had to endure rigorous driving tests in dense Los Angeles traffic, all the while continuing to work as a shipyard construction engineer. Despite these challenges, I persevered, knowing that becoming a police officer was something I truly wanted.
After months of preparation and interviews, a 9x12 manila envelope delivered on our doorstep in 1971 brought a sense of validation. Inside were detailed instructions for further proceedings, including what to wear during cadet training. After an intense 16-week period, I graduated and took my first assignment in the CHP South Los Angeles division in June 1971.
A Highlighted Career
Working as a police officer allowed me the autonomy of being my own boss. I could manage my time effectively, whether busy with patrols or more relaxed, with shifts where I had no dispatcher-driven calls in a typical eight-hour shift. This role was truly a highlight of my career, and it was a time when I felt deeply fulfilled.
The camaraderie and the sense of purpose that I found in the job were unmatched. I loved the freedom to control my time and the variety of tasks that came with the role. From patrolling single-car highways to responding to various incidents, each day brought a new and unique challenge. It was a period of my life where I was constantly engaged and the time seemed to pass quickly.
Reflecting on my tenure in law enforcement, I realize that the initial rejection in Arizona only motivated me more. I never felt like quitting despite the difficulty of the journey. The experiences, both the tough and rewarding, have been invaluable. Even after retiring from the force twelve years ago, I still miss the job and the sense of community it provided.
My journey to becoming a police officer is a testament to perseverance, passion, and a relentless pursuit of a dream. It is a story that many can relate to, especially those who have faced rejections and skeptics but have the determination to succeed in the face of adversity.
If you are passionate about making a difference in your community, it might be worth considering a career in law enforcement. The journey, much like mine, can be challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable.