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By Deputy Chief Josh Stockstill
Thousands of police officers across the country also serve in the National Guard or Reserves. This dual service brings valuable leadership and discipline to law enforcement, but it can also cause friction inside departments. Scheduling conflicts, missed shifts and misunderstandings about military commitments sometimes lead to resentment among coworkers.
The National Guard serves both state and federal missions, meaning members can be activated by their governor for emergencies or federally deployed overseas. Reservists, on the other hand, serve under federal authority only and support active-duty forces when called upon. Both roles require balancing military duty with civilian life — a challenge familiar to many in law enforcement.
Having walked in both worlds, I’ve seen the strain — and the opportunities — that come with serving in two uniforms. The following insights lessons can help Guard and Reserve officers strengthen relationships within their departments and succeed in both roles.
| RELATED: 10 leadership lessons for LE from the military
Stay humble about your service
Do not boast about missing work or your military rank. Frequent references to your rank or accomplishments can be seen as arrogance by fellow officers. Be proud of your service, but stay humble to maintain a positive work environment.
Know your employment rights
Understand the Uniformed Service Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). This law protects service members by ensuring their right to employment and reemployment for up to five cumulative years of military service, including training and deployments.
Share your drill schedule early
Provide your drill schedule or orders well in advance. This gives your command staff time to plan for shift and callout coverage — something commanders will appreciate.
Photo/Sergeant Josh Stockstill
Be willing to cover shifts for others
Your fellow officers give up time to cover your shifts during drill or deployment. Returning the favor builds mutual respect and strengthens team relationships.
Take advantage of leadership development
The military offers excellent leadership programs. Applying those lessons can benefit you and those you supervise in law enforcement.
Connect with veteran organizations
Get involved with your local VFW or American Legion. Both police officers and veteran groups are community-focused. These organizations offer a place to connect with others who share your experiences and provide space to decompress.
Use your GI Bill benefits
Use your GI Bill to pursue a degree or certificate. Continued education improves your performance and leadership skills, which benefits your department as a whole.
Build your network
Many law enforcement officers also serve in the military reserves. Networking helps you learn from other departments, share information and collaborate on crime trends. A strong network enhances your ability to assist your fellow officers.
Take initiative with training
Leverage your military contacts to secure training resources, such as ranges or facilities. These spaces are ideal for active shooter drills, room clearing or mock scenarios. Smaller departments, in particular, benefit from free or low-cost training opportunities.
Photo/Sergeant Josh Stockstill
Expand your crisis intervention and peer support skills
Pursue additional training in crisis intervention and peer support. These skills enable you to provide valuable resources to fellow officers and service members experiencing difficult times.
In closing
You should be proud of your service, but remember that not all police officers fully understand military life. Whether you’re a combat veteran or retiree, humility and professionalism go a long way. Enjoy your time with your fellow officers, build lasting relationships and continue strengthening the law enforcement community.
Tactical takeaway
Balancing two uniforms isn’t easy — but every time you show up for both, you remind others what service really looks like.
Photo/Sergeant Josh Stockstill
About the author
Josh Stockstill currently serves as the Deputy Chief of Police for the Bay St. Louis Police Department in Mississippi. He began his law enforcement career in 2013. He has served six years in a specialized narcotics unit and spent time as a patrol shift supervisor before becoming a Deputy Chief.
He also spent 12 years of service in the Mississippi Army National Guard before being Honorably Discharged.
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