years ago, [1980ish, and slightly before] fire fighters,paramedics, correction officers, and local police officers were allowed at 18 here in pa. our town [city] had one that was on the force, but was restricted on his firearm until he turned 21. he did traffic duty and most other police work, but suffered quite the "teasing" and behind his back rhetoric during that time. he served 30+ years on the force before his retirement at a sargent's rank, and now is a sheriff's deputy. he has been my friend for a long time, and i am proud of his commitment to the job. today, however, it's a VASTLY different world out there than when he was hired. i have been a police commissioner for the city since 1985, and now hold title as senior member of the commission.