Did I start my military career too late?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:01:50 -0500

I'm 28 years old and I'm about to ship to BCT in a few weeks. Some family and friends are telling me the enlisted in the Army. At a old age the i should have done this 10 years ago. Army is for younger men because I'll be a old private the i mighty get thread like a kid. But I see it like that there reason I choosing this path and why I'm choose this at this point in my life. Do im starting my ARMY carrer to late?

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jan 9 at 2019 9:03 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:03:51 -0500

Went through basic with a guy that was older, 31 years old.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Jan 9 at 2019 9:09 AM

LTC Eugene Chu — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:09:05 -0500

It depends on how long you plan to stay. Some intended to do one enlistment, but later chose long career. Others who intended long career ended up leaving after ETS. Age is only one factor in military life and culture.

Response by CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 9:13 AM

CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:13:05 -0500

Guess it all depends on what you want to achieve in your career. You're 28 yrs old. Did you receive e a college degree? If so I would look into a Direct Comission as an officer. If not there are plenty of jobs as an NCO that can be fulfilling line Drill Instructor (DI). Good luck whatever you choose

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 9:14 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:14:49 -0500

No, Army basic training is not particularly hard, just exhausting. I think it's better to start later in life because you're more able to recognize and assess the value the Army has for you. Most of the kids - yes, children - you will join with, have never had a job, never lived alone, or ever been away from their parents. They treat the Army like it's their parents, they need to rebel, and life isn't fair.
People who have had real jobs have the experience to look at the military, assess its cost and value to them. For me, I value that it covers any and all medical and housing expenses for my family. Even if that means occasionally being away from home. Plus it will pay for an Associates, Bachelors, part of a masters, and I can transfer my GI Bill to my children. Once I retire I can draw my pension while starting a new career in my early 40s and having inexpensive Healthcare.
Yes, you'll he treated like a kid for a while. Just do your work and you'll be in charge very shortly.

Response by LTC John Shaw made Jan 9 at 2019 9:16 AM

LTC John Shaw — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:16:28 -0500

No! You have at least 32 years before MANDATORY retirement. You are doing just fine.
Engineering is a great field in the Army and is needed in the civilian world.
Don't second guess yourself, execute on the opportunity you have in front of you!
God Speed in your career.

Response by LTC Jeff Shearer made Jan 9 at 2019 9:17 AM

LTC Jeff Shearer — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:17:29 -0500

Nope

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jan 9 at 2019 9:18 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:18:11 -0500

No you are fine. 28 is in fact a prime age. Your maturity and discipline should be at a higher rate than other recruits. It is a young persons game, you are young. I had Soldier well into their 30’s enter and excel. Good luck.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 9:29 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:29:23 -0500

No! Don't let everyone make you feel less than because you "waited too long" I was 30 when I shipped and I'm doing just fine. We all walk a different path in life, follow yours!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 9:51 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:51:58 -0500

I was 26 years old when I joined. I think you have an advantage over the younger soldiers. Applying what you have learned in that 28 years will take you far, and fast. I had some teenagers that came in as PFC's, while I was a PV1. Fast forward less than two years later, I was an SGT and they were SPC's. I was there to take care of business because I had experienced life, but they were still growing up and finding their way.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 10:03 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:03:20 -0500

I was 34 when I went to BCT and OCS. This will come off as bragging - but I found a ton of energy and drive in the fact that I was smoking 90% of the class in PT, skills being taught, and getting the job done. I didn't need the sleep and spoon feeding most others did. Yes...I'll be as bold to say that I enjoyed basic - a lot. I enjoyed and respected my DS's too. A great time in my life. I had a master's degree, almost 20 years experience in IT - and I was among people who didn't give a shit. I loved being me - just stripped down, regular ol me - who turns out kicks ass. Find that inner "you" and enjoy this incredible time. Good luck bro.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 10:07 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:07:20 -0500

You are still young enough that the physical portion shouldn't be an issue and you have maturity going for you. You are going to get ribbed by some of your fellow trainees, don't let that get to you.

Response by Sgt John Steinmeier made Jan 9 at 2019 10:18 AM

Sgt John Steinmeier — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:18:58 -0500

Since you are in the military, no you did not start too late. You would have started too late if the recruiter told you "sorry you are too old to enlist."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 10:25 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:25:18 -0500

Not at all. It's a good age, I entered later than that. Basic might be a challenge due to the mass punishment mentality, other than that, you'll be fine. Stay physically fit and use your experience to help the younger soldiers. Good luck.

Response by SFC Jose Caraballo made Jan 9 at 2019 10:36 AM

SFC Jose Caraballo — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:36:32 -0500

I had a Soldier that was 40 as one of my students when I instructed. I thought it was a typo when I saw the roster. That made him two years my elder at the time I was in the schoolhouse. But the first day of class sure enough; there he is with the rest of his class. We had a mutual understanding; I respected him for choosing the career path and his desire to serve; even at such an older age. He respected me for my rank and that I had knowledge he desired to gain and was willing to impart. Just remember to stay focused on why you're doing this and everything will fall into place.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 10:40 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:40:53 -0500

You are no where near too old! I hate that mindset from people. I went through my first round with the Army when I was 18 years old, got out and then went and did OSUT all over again at 35. I can tell you that I was physically better than most all of my platoon in training and felt it was easier at an older age to go through OSUT. You have experiences in life, that goes a long way. You will do just fine. I always got motivation from smoking the young smarta$$ that thought I was too old to keep up. Never quit! and remind yourself daily that the body can do much more than your mind will lead you to believe! Welcome to the Army soldier!

Response by SSG Donald H "Don" Bates made Jan 9 at 2019 10:49 AM

SSG Donald H "Don" Bates — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:49:49 -0500

I think your age will be an advantage. Give it all you got!!!

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Jan 9 at 2019 10:54 AM

SGT Dave Tracy — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:54:43 -0500

You're fine. I enlisted, Infantry, at age 36.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 11:04 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 11:04:04 -0500

Of course not man! You get what you put in though... age is only a number. Do great things

Response by CPT Enrique M. made Jan 9 at 2019 11:36 AM

CPT Enrique M. — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 11:36:06 -0500

nope.. not to late. I commissioned at 33.. went to BOLC at 34. I was one of the oldest there for the long course and i didn't feel out of place.

So think about it this way. Age is just a number , its how you feel / act what matters.

I wouldn't be surprised the youngies would gravitate to you for some guidance.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 12:15 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 12:15:29 -0500

I joined the army at 28. Went to osut training and graduated successfully. Other then not running as fast as I used to, I did very well. It depends on your lifestyle. There are advantages of going in with life experience.

Response by Cpl Tom Surdi made Jan 9 at 2019 12:17 PM

Cpl Tom Surdi — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 12:17:05 -0500

Not at all. When I went to boot camp we had a 32 yr old in our platoon and he did just fine. Physically it was a little bit more difficult for him but in every other way he was far superior to us kids. He had the experience and maturity to take full advantage of boot camp and last time I checked he was a Master Guns and planning on staying in for quite a bit longer.

I think you'll do just fine and wouldn't worry.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 12:34 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 12:34:46 -0500

Thank you all. I was already motivated.
Now i feel more motivate to start my career

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 12:47 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 12:47:24 -0500

I think you're right on time! Be humble and don't get sucked into the 18 year old games. I'm 40 and shipping to BTC at Fort Benning in 1.5 weeks. Let's get some!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 1:19 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 13:19:18 -0500

De ningún modo. Me uní al Ejército inicialmente a la edad de 30 años y pensé que habría sido el hombre más viejo allí. En realidad, había un chico de servicio anterior de 41 años que fue a Basic conmigo. Es una gran oportunidad. Será lo que hagas de ella.

Not at all. I joined the Army initially at the age of 30 and thought I would have been the oldest guy there. There actually was a 41 year old prior service guy that went to Basic with me. It is a really great opportunity. It will be what you make of it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 1:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 13:41:43 -0500

You’re not. Don’t let your age deter you from making a positive change. Message me if you’d like some ideas of how you can transition smoothly and start off strong. If you are determined and have a strong work ethic, the Army can be a great environment to assist you in achieving your goals.

Response by MAJ Grant Gutkowski made Jan 9 at 2019 2:01 PM

MAJ Grant Gutkowski — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 14:01:47 -0500

I joined at 27, and kicked ass in Basic. It really felt like kindergarten. I was shocked at how much of a different perspective I had than the kids I was with. In the end, most of my platoon would come to me for advice or conversation. It was awkward, but rewarding in the end. You'll do just fine.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 2:26 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 14:26:08 -0500

I’m 39 and I’ll just hit 13 years this year. Most people my age are hitting their 20.

Whether it’s a “young man’s job” or not depends on what you do. If you’re infantry or cavalry or something like that, then yeah, it is. If you’re not combat arms, then it really doesn’t matter when you join.

Response by CPT Kurk Harris made Jan 9 at 2019 2:52 PM

CPT Kurk Harris — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 14:52:22 -0500

You'll be fine. You have probably learned by now how to keep quiet when you need to and how to follow instructions. That puts you miles ahead of the kiddos. You'll probably get treated like a kids in Basic, but everyone does. It's the introduction to the club. Congrats on your enlistment, and welcome to the brotherhood.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jan 9 at 2019 2:57 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 14:57:28 -0500

You have a lot of good years ahead of you. You can retire at 48 which is pretty lucrative for someone of that age.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 3:53 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 15:53:53 -0500

You'er not old to do a military career, I join a SWAT team in my 40's and out did all the younger team members. What counts is, "Young at Mind". An old or young Private still is part of a good team.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Jan 9 at 2019 4:01 PM

CW5 Sam R. Baker — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 16:01:57 -0500

24 when joining as a private and older than ALL my SSG when I got to my first unit, kicked ass and took names then and at 55, still running the table with the best of the youngins in Aviation. Your street smarts and experiences prior to the service will serve you well, just relax and don't offer too much up front. Make sure you are physically fit at all times and you will clearly shoot up the chain faster than others. I was a PFC the longest in the enlisted corps. If your heart and mind are in it, then you will win it! Good Luck and give a shout out if you need anything like "old man" advice!

Response by SPC Jimmy Rooks I made Jan 9 at 2019 4:10 PM

SPC Jimmy Rooks I — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 16:10:48 -0500

Depends! How will you react to a Drill Sergeant calling you "boy"!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 5:06 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 17:06:57 -0500

PV2 Ramos,

I started at 26. Not too old! I am 36 now and still the young soldiers can not keep up!! Proud of my age! You can do it!!! Stay motivated!! Do extra PT on your own!
I worked hard to humble myself in order to gain the ability to work with and take commands and instructions from younger soldiers. Parade Rest and shut my mouth was my "go to" way to control my pride. They often got annoyed at how often I stood at Parade Rest in the motor pool where I worked. I have now come to the conclusion that they had similar reasons for joining and serving as I did, and rank precedes age. Your entire career you will meet leaders that are younger than you, no matter what age you join.
Civilian experience is not the same thing as Military experience.
Nothing is like the movies. The movies are nothing like the Army.

VR,
SGT Whitaker

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 5:40 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 17:40:07 -0500

Back in 92 I was 32, another guy was 28 and the oldest was 35, I think in general the older guys do better with the head games etc than the younger guys. I ran with the B group at around 12 minute 2 mile runs.

Response by SGT James LeFebvre made Jan 9 at 2019 5:48 PM

SGT James LeFebvre — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 17:48:12 -0500

I'll put it to you this way, there are more people than you think who entered military service older than what others think you "should be". Heck, I myself was 25, turned 26 in BCT (told NO ONE, obviously) and served 11 years and some change. You're starting your career when it is best for you in your eyes, don't let anyone tell you different.

Response by TSgt David Holman made Jan 9 at 2019 6:04 PM

TSgt David Holman — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 18:04:16 -0500

I don't think you are starting too late. I have had several troops who joined later in life, and did quite well. During basic/AIT you will be treated like every other soldier. Once you get to your first duty assignment, you will most likely be treated in respect to how you present yourself. If you present yourself as an adult, you will be treated like an adult. Don't let yourself get pulled into the immature actions around you, and you will be fine.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 8:23 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 20:23:53 -0500

I joined at 35 as a fuzzy. It’s what you make it. You definitely want to fast track promotions when possible.

Response by SGT Matthew S. made Jan 9 at 2019 9:08 PM

SGT Matthew S. — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 21:08:07 -0500

Hardly. Had a guy who was 34 when I went through, and my youngest brother was 26 when he went in. With both of them, their past experience, levelheadedness, and maturity compared to their peers stood out and put them worlds ahead of their fellow trainees.

Response by SGT Justin Lamb made Jan 9 at 2019 11:10 PM

SGT Justin Lamb — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 23:10:55 -0500

PV2,
Negative.. I went through basic in 2000, we had a 33 year old and he was a bad ass!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2019 12:45 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 00:45:08 -0500

They seem to be pretty negative. I joined just before 30. You are fine. Remember why you joined in the first place and stick to it. It’s like telling someone they started getting their degree too late, or they are starting an entry level job too late.
Do you and get it done. You won’t regret it. Keep your head up...
by the way, when I was at basic there were 35 year old recruits. Good luck and welcome!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2019 3:12 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 03:12:49 -0500

I went to basic at 21 not too bad, but I had a buddy who was 31 who put a lot of the younger guys to shame. In the military nobody cares how old you are, your rank matters and how well you do your job matters. You get out of it what you put into it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2019 3:17 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 03:17:29 -0500

Not at all!
Many of the senior leaders joined later, and everyone rolls their eyes at the 26-28 year old SFCs.
Use your age and experience as a responsible adult and you will excel.
Be someone your peers look up to.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2019 9:21 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 09:21:16 -0500

I was 29 when I joined, 30 when I finished my OBC. I realize that is a little different, but my point is that it's never too late, and you'll have a great advantage that you should lean on. (life experience, maturity). Hang in there, keep a positive attitude, don't give up, and always look to see how you can improve!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2019 10:30 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 10:30:59 -0500

You'll be totally fine and you'll embark on an incredible journey. Think about this... You'll be drawing a retirement at age 48 while your civilian counterparts will likely still HAVE to work. Moreover, the military will pay for your college education and set you up with a myriad employment opportunities if you choose to continue to work after the Army.

28 is YOUNG. You'll be fine.

Response by PO2 Lon Hebert made Jan 10 at 2019 12:16 PM

PO2 Lon Hebert — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 12:16:54 -0500

my son who spent 8 years in the marine corps. in November after being out of the marines for 8 years he enlisted into the army at he age of 34. but he excelled at everything he army put before him he had to go down to a specailaist E-4. He had seniority so he was made the recruit NCO. AT times he marched the platoon and gave instructions on weapons. they have offered him to become a Drill sgt. he was sent home on covelensent leave for 30 days. he had hurt his sholder. now he his going thru rehab then on to 88 Mike school. he is trying to reclass once he makes sgt to IT or MP.

Hello LON HEBERT,

t

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Jan 10 at 2019 1:40 PM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 13:40:31 -0500

Not at all. It will likely be tough for you early on, because when you are a PVT, you will be treated like a PVT. Most PVTs are young, relatively ignorant about the world and pretty immature. However, once you have a chance to prove your maturity, your "advanced" age (LOL, yer still a young'in) will actually be an asset.

Now, if you are looking to do 20 or more, those later years may be a bit harder for you, because a 48 year old body just doesn't move like a 38 year old body. BUT, if that is your plan, you can stay on top of it with GOOD nutrition, GOOD PT, and adequate rest (both sleep and physical recovery). If you take care of yourself NOW it will pay off heaps on the backside of a career.

Oh, and also don't write off retirement. Every single enlistment I did was my last one - I was definitely getting out. And I did... After 20 and change.

Response by SN Kristi Kalis made Jan 10 at 2019 9:51 PM

SN Kristi Kalis — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 21:51:43 -0500

You'll be ahead of the game as far as maturity and experience, but you will likely be a bit resentful about being treated like a child. You will be in with a lot of kids who can't wipe their own asses. Just keep your head down and eyes on the prize. Remember that training is short-term, you will likely never see these people again and your career hasn't started yet. Good luck!

Response by GySgt Timmy John Shoemaker made Jan 11 at 2019 12:03 AM

GySgt Timmy John Shoemaker — Fri, 11 Jan 2019 00:03:45 -0500

Nah, I started at 28. I made sure I stayed in a high state of physical fitness all the time. The toughest thing is the actions of the younger ones. I would suggest that you you will be good to go. Your age is an advantage, respect your superiors and be knowledgeable about your occupation speciality. Most of all take advantage of every opportunity you can get. I just retired and I can say that I was Blessed to serve. Best of luck.

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Jan 11 at 2019 7:46 AM

Sgt Charles Welling — Fri, 11 Jan 2019 07:46:46 -0500

With all due respect...……… you are obviously uneducated, your writing skills reveal that. With that having been said, I have doubts that any fruitful career is in your future as most fruitful jobs require education to be able to function to required standards. The Army is no different, leaders must be able to function and communicate and education is relevant. At 28, you should have know this by now. Maybe your best bet is to serve your time, maybe ask out if possible, go to a quality tech school, get a trade via trade education and move forward from there. BTW, if the Army is like the Marines as regards advancement...…………. there are no old privates anymore, you either advance by your own volition or you will be put out. Bottom line? Manage your life, you be in charge, don't let life just happen and by all means, stay away from the trouble crowd...…….. I suspect you know who they are. Best wishes and best of luck...………. it's all up to you. In five years, if you are in the same virtual boat...………… look in the mirror.

Response by SGT Deana Hill made Jan 15 at 2019 12:45 AM

SGT Deana Hill — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 00:45:35 -0500

You'll be fine. I'm a female who turned 41 in BCT, and 42 in Afghanistan. For those who question it, it was in 2007, when the Army had raised the enlistment age. 28 is, in no way, too old. Go for it!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2019 2:58 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 14:58:12 -0500

I went through basic at 35. I did way better than I expected and out performed many of my fellow trainees. Stay positive and focused. There is a lot of BS with the younger kids, but I really only got a little sh*t as I kept right up no problem and didn't expect anything different. Good luck!

Response by SSG John Lasseigne made Jan 18 at 2019 11:50 AM

SSG John Lasseigne — Fri, 18 Jan 2019 11:50:35 -0500

You will not get treated like a kid...you will get treated like a private. But dont worry you are not the oldest person to join the military. I went through basic with a guy that was 33 and my first sqaud ldr was in his 30s when he joined and that guy was an E7 by the time je had 8 yrs of service.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Jan 21 at 2019 8:53 PM

SSG John Jensen — Mon, 21 Jan 2019 20:53:38 -0500

the young thing is for doing things when you're too stupid to know better, like jumping out of airplanes for a living, for everything else in life - Go For It

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2019 1:45 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 01:45:18 -0500

I was 20 when I went through basic at Benning. However, I don't mind saying that I didn't look like a 20 year old, nor did I have the mentality of such. While 28 is an older age to start military career, it's not as uncommon as you think. I had an LT who was 40 when he enlisted post 9/11. So I'm sure you have a good measure of pain and experience on your side. Best of luck to you.

Response by 1stSgt John Ross made Jan 31 at 2019 12:57 PM

1stSgt John Ross — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 12:57:08 -0500

I started my military career (Air Force) at 25 and stayed for 21 years. Good and bad. Good; I was more mature than my " peers" and so was give responsibilities earlier. Not so good toward the end of my career when the inevitable effects of age made it more difficult to maintain fitness standards, and some of the other activities hurt more or took longer to recover from. Enjoy your. Time in the service. Do your time with honor whether it is one enlistment or a career. You will look back on it with pride.

Response by CPT Keith Whitter made Feb 2 at 2019 10:31 PM

CPT Keith Whitter — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 22:31:54 -0500

You have a great advantage over the 18 year olds. You've lived a life outside the Army. Physically, you'll have to suck it up as the younger people will have more endurance. But, you have the wisdom to know what to do when it is required. Be a sheepdog, not a sheep!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2019 10:45 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 Feb 2019 10:45:34 -0500

I was 38 when I joined, and I convinced my daughter to join at the same time. In basic training I was on 1 side of the post and she was on the other, at Ft. Leonard wood for AIT we were 3 rooms away from each other. My Drill Sergeant called me old lady and the soldiers called me Mama Malone, so no....you didn't start too late, lol.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2019 11:47 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 Feb 2019 11:47:26 -0500

Yes about 11 years late, depending on Your mos and if you went to college or not. BCT is not hard ,keep your mouth shut (honesty and loyalty will get you in more trouble than you can think) and catch up on the schools you missed as a young one as quick as you can. But don't worry you will have some fine company.

Response by SPC Steve ChenRobbins made Feb 12 at 2019 8:06 AM

SPC Steve ChenRobbins — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 08:06:03 -0500

I enlisted at 26. In some ways it made Basic harder, but in others it was much easier. At 18 if someone yelled in my face I had to react, at least facially if not saying something. By the time I was 26 I knew enough to internalize any anger/annoyance, and was able to understand the concept "in __ more weeks I will be moving on and you will be stuck in this hellhole with the next batch."

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Feb 25 at 2019 3:17 AM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 03:17:14 -0500

The ARMY,like all other services treats its inductess at basic, like the children that want to become adults. I went thru basic training in the Air Force. We ran, went thru obstacle course, rifle range, chow hall (DFACs to you new era kids), got yelled at constantly, pulled dorm guard, mess hall duty for officers and enlisted alike, had muy training briefs and classes, marched everywhere and got our innuculations (shots) by the scores. I was 17 fresh out of high school and had only been to Mexico, to see family, 3 times in my life. Every one else had been America bound all their lives. But I had two other advantages. My dad and older brother, had been in the Merchant Marines, ARMY (dad) and Air Force (brother) and gave me some advice. Answer up quickly, don't always volunteer, play close attention to the TI (Training Instructor), keep you shoes &boots shined at all times and always keep your mouth shut. A couple of guys older than me (21 yer olds) were always in trouble for one thing or another. So age does notmake you wiser all the time. After basic, tech school and a tour in SEA,, I was stationed in Arkansas! My NCOICs and a couple of others were never further from their home state after a tour in SEA. Their home state was Arkansas! 18 to 22 years of service and they never saw much outside their home state. There was a guy who came from tech school, who was 34! He was from Arkansas also. But he enlisted late in life. Had a wife and three kids. I was his supervisor the whole four years I spent in Arkansas. So it really doesn't matter if you're 17 or 30. Starting out in the military gets you treated just the same.

Response by MSgt Jerry Waters made Mar 15 at 2019 9:32 PM

MSgt Jerry Waters — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 21:32:54 -0400

No, I don't think to old to service! Good Luck

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2019 10:24 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 10:24:53 -0400

You will get treated like a kid for some of it, but a lot of times people will give you the benefit of understanding that you’re more mature than your peers. I had a friend that enlisted at 37 and made it to SSG in 6 years before deciding to get out. You are in no way alone.

Response by SGT Adam Winebarger made Mar 18 at 2019 8:33 PM

SGT Adam Winebarger — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 20:33:01 -0400

I wouldn’t worry about it. In my last unit before I got out, we had a small handful of privates in their 30’s. At least you have some prior life experience so you (probably) won’t be lost in the sauce when your leadership asks you do do things.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Mar 24 at 2019 11:33 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Sun, 24 Mar 2019 11:33:17 -0400

No. You didn't start too late. Even though I joined the Army and went to Basic at 18, there were people as old as 34. You're okay.

Response by SFC Kazim Mohammed made Apr 19 at 2019 4:38 PM

SFC Kazim Mohammed — Fri, 19 Apr 2019 16:38:53 -0400

I did it at 34

Response by Brian Thompson made Jan 22 at 2020 12:31 AM

Brian Thompson — Wed, 22 Jan 2020 00:31:22 -0500

I need a change im 34

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Aug 24 at 2020 3:41 PM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 15:41:46 -0400

Don't let the age wear you down, many seasoned senior NCO's will recognize your maturity. They will treat you differently and trust you more. I know when I was a platoon sergeant I had a few soldiers who were older, they had better judgement than my younger soldiers. They made it much further faster in their careers.

Response by SPC Tony Pacheco made Sep 2 at 2020 10:21 PM

SPC Tony Pacheco — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 22:21:28 -0400

I joined at 29. The best fucking age to do it! I won’t say BCT was easy, because that’s subjective. I will say that I enjoyed every minute of it. Whenever it was harder I was able to think to myself, “I could be doing (so and so) instead I get to do this”. With the maturity you’ll have a better appreciation for what you’re doing. Man, I would love to go through again at 43 just to see. I envy you. Enjoy your time, just don’t show it to much. I did....... I payed a lot for my smiles.

Response by 1SG Bill Farmerie made Aug 23 at 2021 6:59 PM

1SG Bill Farmerie — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 18:59:41 -0400

I enlisted at age 24. Not a big deal. I made a career out of it. The hardest thing to decide was when to retire as to not be too old to start another career. Being a little older, you tend to understand that Basic is more of a mind game, where as the younguns think they are being picked on by the drill sergeants. So do not regret your decision. We also did have a guy who was 34 and had been a teacher up until he joined. He didn't have any problems either.

Response by SPC Lynda England made Aug 23 at 2021 7:09 PM

SPC Lynda England — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 19:09:33 -0400

I enlisted at age 27 and have no regrets. I got called grandma in basic but it just motivated me more. With age comes wisdom you will out perform those youngsters. The benefits you will reap are so worth it. At 69 I have full medical coverage(for free) and have purchased 4 homes over the years with no down payment. Hang in there! You got this!!

Response by SFC Don Ward made Aug 23 at 2021 9:54 PM

SFC Don Ward — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 21:54:32 -0400

I joined at 26, sometimes wish I had joined at 18. Being 26 kind of scared me off of Airborne and Air Assault, which limited a couple of career moves. GT and other scores OK, but that fear of broken bones and other injuries won out.

Response by SSG Michael Montoya made Aug 24 at 2021 12:49 AM

SSG Michael Montoya — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 00:49:22 -0400

If you're married and have a drive to rise through the ranks quickly and really apply yourself it shouldn't be bad....the married so you won't be stuck living in the small barracks room with many who aren't so mature yet, which means they'll probably be lots of gi parties because someone will make a mess and I have seen many times where mass punishment is the norm. The rise through the ranks, well you want the better pay and privileges that come with it, plus if you've already had those growth and maturing phases of your 20's already done then it'll get old quickly how you will probably be treated just like the other newly enlisted who happens to be 18.

Response by SPC Lynda England made Sep 22 at 2021 1:03 PM

SPC Lynda England — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 13:03:46 -0400

I enlisted at 27, best thing I ever did. It’s now or never, you’ll regret it later if you don’t!

Response by SGT Steven Wade made Sep 22 at 2021 1:30 PM

SGT Steven Wade — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 13:30:03 -0400

Ya but I joined at 18 and a mate with me was 35 if can hang then would be no prob