It was many moons ago, but when I was looking at the CHP that was definitely the deal. Woulda been a regular Trooper for who-knows-how-long until I was super-fortunate enough to get a flying slot.

I understand their view as it was explained to me. They need you to understand the business of law enforcement and what it is to do that job on the ground first so that you can be effective supporting those operations and tactics from the air. And, of course, they have many times more qualified people than slots.