I don't want to burst your bubble here about this being a really tough field to get into but...
I recently read in the news that there are several states that are having trouble filling their conservation officer positions. This might not be as tough to get into as it used to be. They cited several reasons for the shortage, but I don't remember them. I am not saying that this is the case nation wide, but there were several states listed.
Because this is a govenment job, being a veteran should help. Most government jobs will give 5-10 point bonus to you unde the veterans preferance thing.
Good luck to you!!!