Did I start my military career too late?

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!

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!

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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.