Army Veteran Continues Life of Service As Captain
Image of Captain Mark Slater
In the United States Army, Mark Slater could be in the office one day and just as easily be in a helicopter the next. From Germany to Kosovo and beyond, Slater saw the world serving his country for 22 years.
The Olathe native was on active duty half the time and in the Army Reserve the other. He was a military police officer (MP) and later the first sergeant of a training company. The sense of accomplishment he found in the Army followed him to KCPD.
“It’s similar to the life you were accustomed to in that close-knit team environment with clearly outlines goals and mission,” Slater explained. “It’s very rewarding. You got that sense of completion and you get that same feeling here at the police department.”
Slater is a new Captain, serving at Central Patrol Division. This comes after 12 years in the Homicide Unit, first as a detective, then as a sergeant. It was the investigations, the evidence, the science, the complexity of the work, and what it meant to victims that kept him there.
“Homicide is generally regarded as one of the top investigative elements within the department,” Slater said. “I loved the challenge of it.”
As a Captain, Slater has a new challenge and is learning a different role. He’s the commander of Central Patrol’s Watch I.
“Leading as a sergeant, you’re part of a very close-knit, highly motivated team,” Slater said. “You lead by setting the example, showing what needs to be done. Supporting your subordinates and empowering them so that they can be successful. Leading as a captain, all that holds, but you’re leading in a different way. You’re not necessarily leading the officers, you’re leading the leaders.”
KCPD proudly welcomes veterans and has officer positions open. Apply here.