I recently read an editorial from a retired correctional officer who preached the importance of shined boots. His emphasis was on promoting professionalism and preparedness in his hostile working environment. It was disappointing to see so many dissenting opinions from self-described correctional, police and sheriff’s officers.
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One of the first things my father taught me before I started the police academy was to always press my uniforms and shine my boots. A former Vietnam vet and Connecticut State Trooper, he lived by the mantra, “Look sharp, be sharp.”
In the academy, during Arrest and Control training, I learned that suspects are less likely to test an officer who looks squared away. On the street, I can say convincingly that those who show up to work looking squared away carry themselves with greater confidence and control.
Your uniform is the first thing people see — whether you wear the traditional copper shield and pins or the modern vest with the array of equipment attached to it. Residents, stakeholders and subjects all make judgments about what to expect in terms of service, competence and, yes, resistance. Our presence is also our first level of show of force, so why not make it impactful?
Having a squared-away uniform also reflects other admirable traits like mental readiness, physical fitness and professionalism. Despite working in a fluid environment, these are all things we can control. I believe they also contribute to longevity and safety when an officer takes the initiative to discipline themselves to these minor commitments.
If you’re a boss, I implore you to set and hold these standards. They’ll keep your people safe, potentially reduce complaints and use of force, and reinforce the strength of your agency.
In a profession where perception often shapes reality, looking the part isn’t vanity — it’s readiness.
Are we teaching our young officers what it means to be squared away? Share your thoughts.
