I could use some perspective.

I was honorably discharged from active duty on 01MAY1990. When the events of 9/11 unfolded, I was unable to volunteer for service, due to responsibilities at home, work and the volunteer fire service. In 2009, I re-enlisted in the PA Army National Guard. I wanted the opportunity to serve, since I had found myself with fewer responsibilities. The children were grown, work was slowing down. I came back in as a 13B, which was my only MOS. The unit I was assigned to, had just returned from Iraq. I put myself on volunteer status, and have volunteered for several deployments with other state NG units. When I became a firefighter at FT. Indiantown Gap, in PA, there was absolutely no chance for deployment because of the mission, which I understood going in. When I left Ft. Indiantown Gap, it was for an opportunity to transfer into the active component. I was green across the board, with no waivers. USAREC denied my application, since I was over 35. Mind you, my PT scores have met the 17-21 bracket since 2011, at age 45. I had six years of active service, so they told me I could not be over 41. Even though there was still time for me to complete 20 years active. I had a needed MOS and the "P" SQI. I took the chance, to go into the reserves as I found the NG not meeting my expectations on many levels. So here I am today, 4.5 years in, and still haven't deployed. I'm aware of the hazards, but wish to participate, and do my part. I trained for years during the cold war, and feel I have quite a bit to offer. So here is where I need perspective. Is it my age, my 19 year break in service, luck? Why is it I cannot do anything I've been trained to do, in a current theater of operations. At times it feels as though 'you can't make it old man'. No butt hurt here, just would like some input from folks.