Did I start my military career too late?

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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