Hey gents. So I'm in the Navy, I've just hit my 12 year mark and my wife literally just got hired onto JSO. I'm going to 20 years and then retire out of the military. I was going to go longer, but it's becoming less and less for me every day. It's the people not the job. So I've decided to start preparing now. I know I'll be at 40 years old when I retire from active duty. I have my Associates in CJ, I'm working on my BA and plan to have my masters when I get out. I also have, though I know it doesn't matter, my 2002NEC aka Military Police Investigator. Which I've been actively assigned in for about 5 years. I'm not doing my USMAPS certs because I heard they don't matter from other retired Military guys I trust that went civ LE. They're essentially journeyman certs from my understanding and people laugh at them. I have Center for homeland security certifications 1-5 also, not sure if that matters out of DHS, probably not, and those FEMA courses I'm sure y'all had to do too, because my mother who's a shrink at Cornell University in NYS had to do all of the same ones.
Anyway. I would like some advice from this knowledgeable group. I'm looking in the Fort Worth TX area when I get out. Not looking for a spot to be held or anything. I've got 8 years left. But I want to prepare now so I have the best possible shot. I've got a few injuries from the military but nothing that will keep me from doing the job, I do it now. Just looking to do another 20-25 years then retire from that.
I know I'm starting from the bottom and I'm not thinking the military thing gets me much at all like some dudes. My buddies gave me a little insight, but I'm looking to get some info from the group here to make sure I have the best info from the widest audience. Also if any of you are/were in the same boat. Just looking for some guidance. Thanks gents.
Edit: I'm also not too picky, I'll go to a Sheriff's office, PD, FED. Doesn't matter looking for all options. Just need a place to put in time. Not Dallas though....