By tapping into this source of qualified applicants, police departments can draw from a pool of personnel who not only meet the minimum screening requirements of most departments, but who also have those favorable attributes and characteristics that make them prime candidates for employment as police officers. Service members leaving the armed forces generally do not have criminal records, have good health, have no history of substance abuse, and are in relatively good physical condition. Additionally, their training and experience provide them with a background that is compatible with the needs of the law enforcement profession. Service members leave the service with a higher- than-average educational level and have received training in many areas that are common to both the military and law enforcement professions, such as communications, first aid, and marksmanship. They are accustomed to working irregular hours, under stress, in unusual work environments. They have been trained to be disciplined team players who are motivated to accomplish the assigned mission in the face of barriers. Most are capable of dealing with various segments of society, since they have been exposed to many lifestyles and environments. Operation Transition, which has been established by the Department of Defense to assist the large numbers of departing service members in their transition to civilian life, can provide assistance to employers interested in hiring former service personnel through two automated employment assistance programs. 5 notes