I was in the Coast Guard for 4 years. I wasn't a pilot though, enlisted Machinery Technician. I actually went in because I didn't have a college degree and it was a great way to "grow up". Wish I stayed in, I miss the Coast Guard everyday. Best organization I've ever worked for. Such a great brotherhood and the missions are incredibly important to the Country.

I tried to go back active duty, no luck. Not really recruiting right now. I don't much about the aviation program, but I did a flight physical and started working on the direct commission aviator program. It is VERY difficult to get a pilot slot. Don't bank on getting a pilot slot in the USCG. Go in because you want to be there regardless of what position you end up in.

As far as law enforcement, I really wouldn't want to shoot somebody either, but let me tell you, I carried a gun and was a Federal Boarding Officer. I wouldn't hestitate to shoot somebody that was intent on shooting me. Keep that in mind dude. You wouldn't be shooting an unarmed innocent person, you'd be defending yourself, your fellow boarding team and ultimately your country from a person who has no morals in the first place. There is no wrong in that. But if you're affraid of guns and don't want to be in that position, I would look away. I was enlisted during the transition from DOT to Homeland security. Law Enforcement/homeland security has taken on a huge role in the USCG. I personally love it and wish to God I never got out for this stupid career in the airlines.