Posted on Jul 27, 2020
Is commissioning from enlisted to officer at 32-33 years old too old?
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I’m planning on doing the Green to Gold 2 year active duty option within the next year or two once I finish my AA degree.By the time I commission I’ll be 32-33 years old. I’m 28 now. Has anyone else commissioned in their 30’s before? How was your experience and what was it like at your unit.
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 15
Not to be rude but that seems like a silly question to me. My last BDE had an AMEDD DCC Battery. They were training Dr's to be officers, some already in their 50s. Of course the training was a bit different. As far as age, and experience, most of the older, prior enlisted officers I have dealt with are more adapt to the Army ways. Have a greater pool of knowledge and are more respected over all by those in their peer group and seniors. You need to keep in mind though that you will need 10 of comissioned service to retire as an officer. In that sense age may come in to play. Also you may cap out for TIS on the pay scale
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SSG (Join to see)
MSG (Join to see) Thank you for your input, MSG. Before this post I wasn’t too aware on officers commissioning in their 30’s/40’s. Now that I have this understanding I can spread the knowledge and enlighten others who plan to do the same.
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I don't think its too old! Good for you. If you play your cards right- you'll be surprised who you catch up to in a few years.
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SSG (Join to see)
MAJ (Join to see) Thank you for the encouragement, Sir! I’m definitely going for it.
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Also, how long would I be able to stay in the Army as an Officer (2nd LT with 12-13 years AFS)?
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MAJ Samuel Weber
Your time starts again. Officers have both Active Federal Service and Active Federal Commissioned Service. I was 35 when I commissioned as a 2LT. I can stay in the Army until I’m 62 as long as I keep getting promoted. You can earn 102% of your pay at retirement if you can last 40 years. I’m currently at 28 years AD with 11 years as an officer. It’s all up to you and your Family. Good luck.
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SSG (Join to see)
MAJ Samuel Weber Thanks again, sir for the knowledge. If I can do 40 years, then I look forward to doing it.
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I spent 17-years enlisted before my commission at age 40; with an age waiver for my active duty time. I did a direct commission into the Air Force as a physical therapist and attended Commissioned Officers Training (COT). During my career I have met many a mustang officer, albeit mostly medical, so its not unusual to see commissioned officers enter their respective services in the 30's or later.
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