What age do you think is too old to consider joining the military?

2020-02-12T15:20:03-05:00

Some days I get really discouraged because of my age and plan. I am 24, turning 25 in April. I will be enlisting as a private in a few months. About 40 college credits under my belt. I currently moved out of my apartment back in with my parents and I do not have a car right now. I’ve been jumping back and forth between serving and bartending jobs. I personally feel in my gut that the military (active duty) is the right choice for me. It doesn’t scare me or make me nervous. It genuinely motivates me and pushes me to be better thinking about my future in the army. I’m just concerned on the fact that I don’t have a plan. Is active a good idea? Should I consider college first and do the military part time? I guess I’m looking for personal experiences and seasoned advice.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 3:24 PM

2020-02-12T15:24:23-05:00

My Battle Buddy in Basic Training was 35 when he joined. He was able to keep up with us 17-18 year old troops.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 3:35 PM

2020-02-12T15:35:38-05:00

I was 20 when I joined. I was in better shape at 24. Active, Guard or Reserve, you won't regret it. And you can go to college while you're in. In fact, all services will motivate you to get your degree. Good luck!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 3:45 PM

2020-02-12T15:45:16-05:00

Joining active duty is a plan. The active duty military is a career choice. If you just do the bare minimum, and don't try to excel you will still have a successful career. At the end of 20 years you will have a Pension that pays you out immediately and will supplement your income until retirement. You will have a 401K with matching contributions from your employer, you'll have discounted Health Care Oh, and if you just apply yourself a little bit You will at least have a bachelor degree. All that, And you will still be young enough to start a second career, and had a GI Bill that will pay For you to attend training and receive whatever certifications you need for your next career.

If you're willing to put a bit of work in you can retire at a higher pay grade, or as an officer. You can separate with a fully paid Masters degree, transfer your GI Bill to your dependents, develop the experience and contacts be competitive to transfer into the next career of your choice, and earn skills and certifications prior to separation.

For instance, I joined as a cook. I attended airborne and Ranger school before separation. Then I rejoined as a medic. I applied for PA school, which didn't work out for me, but for my colleagues who were accepted, they are now PAs who are racking up medical certifications while the Army paid for their school. Now I'm a Career Counselor. The civilian equivalent would be a program manager. I would need a program manager certification to be competitive at that if I chose - the Army or my GI Bill would pay for that. I will have my Bachelor's done before I retire and could pursue a masters if I wanted.

Join now, go to college on active duty. Progress as you go. Embrace the 80% solution, don't wait for things to be 100%

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 3:56 PM

2020-02-12T15:56:10-05:00

I know individuals that were in their 30s when they joined and they are killing it.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Feb 12 at 2020 3:56 PM

2020-02-12T15:56:30-05:00

You are young.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 4:03 PM

2020-02-12T16:03:34-05:00

I joined after college and working for a few years down south, and was 25. No problem keeping up with the teens. Listening to your story I believe you will get more out of it because you have some life experience and have some idea of what you want. I can say the Army shaped my thinking fir life, in a good way. The education benefits are much better now than when I was in. You give up dine freedom, but you gain a lot of life experience. MHO

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 4:29 PM

2020-02-12T16:29:35-05:00

I came active duty in the Army when i was 25. i would say i was in better shape in Basic than the 18-20 yr olds. And i stayed that way until i hit 45, then it went downhill quick after that. haha. I had 40 yr old Pvt's in basic training running circles around the young kids when i was a Drill Sergeant at 35. So it can be done. your still a baby at 24 and will be just fine. You can get your college degree for free while in the Military.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Feb 12 at 2020 4:30 PM

2020-02-12T16:30:58-05:00

I was 27 when I went through Boot Camp, or in my case, One Station Unit Training. I had a 4 year degree, was unemployed and had always thought about doing a tour (father retired Air Force). Stayed 13 years and in hindsight, should not have gotten out when I did. So my advice is talk to a recruiter, pick a career field that interest you whether it has a civilian application or not, and do an enlistment. If you don't like it, come out and use your GI Bill to finish your education, and I would advise to continue as much of your education as possible while on Active Duty.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 4:36 PM

2020-02-12T16:36:11-05:00

At the very least, if you don't currently have a long-term plan for what you want to do after the Army, then the Army will provide you significant stability to figure things out over time. You can work on your degree while you are serving, but expect it to take longer to complete, due to needing to take 1-2 courses at a time, and having potentially large gaps when you are deployed. If you join certain MOS', you can get a significant amount of college credit from local colleges that award credit for AIT completion. That can put you closer to completing an associate degree.

Response by SGT Eric Davis made Feb 12 at 2020 4:51 PM

2020-02-12T16:51:09-05:00

The age they turn you around and say you can’t!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 7:01 PM

2020-02-12T19:01:52-05:00

Ashley Nicole You are not too old to join the military and joining the Army is a plan. The more that you can plan and set goals, the more success that you will have. Continuing your education has to be part of your plan.

My plan was to find a good job while I worked on my degree, and then start work on the Space Program. When I was discharged, I moved to the Houston area, found a good paying chemical plant job and started school. Five and a half years later, I had my degree and started a 33 year career with the Space Shuttle program. I worked 42 hours a week shift work and was also going to school full time. I was at work, at school, in transit, studying, or sleeping. I had very little time for anything else.

Make plans, and adjust as needed to accomplish your goals. Good luck.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 8:08 PM

2020-02-12T20:08:23-05:00

I recently enlisted at 33. Gave all my effort into running and ACFT prep in the last months. Military will help you define what you’d like to do later in life and support in getting more education. If it’s a long time voice in your gut then have no fear.. do it!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2020 8:54 PM

2020-02-12T20:54:44-05:00

I joined the USMC at 23-1/2. With those credits, talk to your recruiter and get a contract for E2, eligible for meritorious E3. I had the first part in my contract, the 2nd part I did not know about and missed graduating boot as a LCpl (E3)

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Feb 12 at 2020 11:01 PM

2020-02-12T23:01:27-05:00

In my view, like everything else in your life you should have an exit plan or plan B if you enlist and find you do not like the service. Yes you have to fulfill your contract but you should have a viable way to exit military service and support yourself via alternate means. If not then enlisting will compound your problems if you do not like the Army and wish to exit after your term in service is up.....no plan in place for that contingency.........what do you do then? So what I would do if I were you is either get a degree before you enlist or setup your contract so the Army pays for your college after enlistment and you can finish or resume your degree after the service. I started college and had about a year prior to enlisting in the Army, the Army paid for the remaining three years after I seperated from the Army. Yes I had to get various jobs to support myself after the Army but life was a LOT easier knowing that my college was paid for and I did not have to earn that money on top of subsistence living.

Response by SPC David S. made Feb 12 at 2020 11:45 PM

2020-02-12T23:45:35-05:00

Join and let the Army help fund your educational goals. Then from there all sorts of things can happen like going green to gold. Really a lot depends on your motivation as well from my personal experience way more rewarding than tender a bar. Good luck.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Feb 13 at 2020 10:35 AM

2020-02-13T10:35:31-05:00

One veteran is returning to service and redoing basic training at age 59

https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2020/01/14/59-year-old-afghanistan-veteran-will-report-to-army-basic-training-this-summer/

59-year-old Afghanistan veteran will report to Army basic training this summer

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2020 2:34 PM

2020-02-13T14:34:26-05:00

I joined at 33. The military is the best kind of plan you can have. If after 4 years that plan changes, so be it, you're better off than when you went in. You look good on paper and have more discipline to know what it is that you want. If you decide to stay in, you'll have career options, 401k, etc. after 20. You could potentially be set up with a pension before you're 50 and have a serious amount of doors open to you!
That said, truly think about why you're joining. I know people who joined because they had no direction, some who joined because they were just bored. Some made it, some failed miserably because they didn't stop to consider why they were doing it and got in for the wrong reasons. Like most things, do not rush into it. Consider all your options and know that the military is certainly a good one, should you choose.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2020 9:48 PM

2020-02-13T21:48:15-05:00

I went to basic with a guy who was 34. You're never too old

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Feb 14 at 2020 1:58 PM

2020-02-14T13:58:18-05:00

I started college when I was 17, and promptly failed out (turns out you have to actually go to class...). I spent 2 years listless and doing entry level jobs, usually 2 or 3 at a time to make ends meet. I was a lost, immature kid. I joined the army at the age of 20. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. The army gave me purpose, direction, motivation, and forced me to grow the F up.
Now I am retired with a paycheck for life, army-funded Bachelor's degree, and I start my Master's program this summer.
My only advice would be that you sound uncommitted. If you choose to join the milutary, regardless of which branch, you can't dip a toe and test the water. Jump in with both feet. Commit, and you may surprise even yourself with how much you flourish.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2020 10:26 PM

2020-02-16T22:26:41-05:00

PM ma and I'll be more than happy to wage both sides (Active or Guard/Reserve). There are benefits to both and the decision needs to be based on personal needs and wants.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2020 10:17 PM

2020-02-17T22:17:46-05:00

when I first enlisted I was 17...… when I reenlisted I was 38 also I reupped as a pvt.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2020 8:53 PM

2020-02-22T20:53:17-05:00

Ashley, I was a waiter for 8 years, until I was 30 years old, and I realized I can't wait tables for the rest of my life. I joined the Army (active duty) at age 31. I am a month away from my 6-year mark and I am currently a SSG, was recently selected to become a Warrant Officer, earned a B.S. degree in Finance, and deployed twice. I think active duty is a good decision, work hard, take it one day at a time, and clearly identify your goals and the steps you need to achieve them. Once you identify a plan to meet your objectives and goals, just stick with it, and you will succeed. It may not happen over night, but if you keep working hard, you will succeed. Best of luck to you.

Response by CPT Kenneth Rankin made Mar 19 at 2020 6:50 PM

2020-03-19T18:50:11-04:00

I am 52 and prior service and soon will have my 18 year old son headed into the Army like his father and Grandfather... In talking to the recruiters with him, I have half a mind to ask for a "two-for-one" special! I miss my days in service and you can take the man out of the Army, but you can't take the Army out of the man! I'd love to be back in the turret of the Abrams or Bradley. I don't think there should be any age limitation...If you can do the job is all that matters. Cause that is what your brothers and sisters expect and that is the standard!

Response by SSG James Dolen made Mar 21 at 2020 12:00 AM

2020-03-21T00:00:08-04:00

Go with your gut feeling. I was almost exactly your age when I joined the Army, originally for three years. To make a long story short, I took an early retirement offer after 18 years. I realize that a lot has changed since the 1970’s including the greater probability of going to war but mostly for the better. Pay is much higher, the GI Bill is far more lucrative and American society holds the military in high esteem instead of contempt. I doubt that you get much in the way of benefits from your two jobs. That’s something else you will get in the military, such as health care and 30 days leave each year. You are a motivated person so why waste time? Again, go with your gut feeling.
Good luck!

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Mar 22 at 2020 11:35 AM

2020-03-22T11:35:49-04:00

Ashley, I am 57 this year and still killing it as a warrant officer even. I joined at 24 myself and it was a great decision and still love it. Additionally the service KEEPS me in shape compared to those friends I had in 1987 when I joined. Most cannot see their toes anymore, much less knock a pushup out. I started flight school at age 30 and have seen many folks older even succeed. Do what feels right and frankly if you want to join at ANY age and can hang, then we would welcome you to the team! I can honestly say while briefing a new class every two weeks in flight school, I still kick it pretty good for an old man!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2020 2:09 PM

2020-03-28T14:09:43-04:00

realistically I always considered 25 yrs old the "CUT OFF". It meant that you were still young enough to be in the mindset that you can be molded and learn. 26 yrs old and above I really didn't see much success because by that age they seemed set in their ways didn't really feel the needed to listen to NCOs that were younger than them.

Response by SFC Martin Rickert made Mar 29 at 2020 12:11 AM

2020-03-29T00:11:27-04:00

In my opinion, you are at a good age. When I was an instructor at FLW teaching CBRN AIT, my oldest student was 40. He was an active duty Soldier too

Response by CWO4 Terrence Clark made Mar 30 at 2020 3:11 PM

2020-03-30T15:11:48-04:00

You are not too old. But you need an attitude check.
28 years, up through the hawsepipe, 90% outside CONUS followed by 21 years Director level positions in Sales/HR/Labor Relations/Hiring Mgr for four large companies leads to this piece of advice.
No matter what job you take - military, bartending, or CEO of GM, they are all sales jobs. Your attitude will carry you. You must start the first day of a new job convinced this is the greatest career move you've ever made. Then carry that fwd to day2, day 3 and so on. If you start with the attitude that this job will give me breathing room while I figure out what I want to be, you will always have breathing room, but never achieve anything. Every single job out there has merit. Find it. Where I now live, every Jack in the Box in the county is owned by a woman who started at the drive through window right after high school.
As an ex-recruiter and ex-hiring mgr. I can tell you we have heard it all and can pick up on a short timer's indecisiveness. Don't think in pay periods. Begin with the end in mind.

Response by SPC Dwight Turner made Apr 11 at 2020 3:19 PM

2020-04-11T15:19:48-04:00

well funny you mention age I was 23 when I joined !!!! if you might had said 30 then I might say that be too old !!! I doubt they could handle pressure at 30 years of age
i'm not sure wether theres an age cut off on enlisting that's something I didn't think about
I would of went in before age 23 but was working before I actually had a challenge from my boss who didn't think i'd make it which was why I volunteered !!!

Response by Sgt Jordan Foster made Apr 16 at 2020 8:52 AM

2020-04-16T08:52:29-04:00

Just don’t carry the I’m older and wiser mentality because 19 year olds are going to be two years into the fleet and have deployments under them and be your primary bosses for a while. You will receive respect because of your age and if you conduct your self with a professional manner. Hard work and determination go a long way.

Response by SGT Ronald Audas made Apr 19 at 2020 3:02 PM

2020-04-19T15:02:17-04:00

I was 24+years old when I was drafted in 1966. I was married ,going to college ,and in the process of buying a home. I dropped out of the second summer session to handle the purchase. This information to say this.Once I got over my anger for having my plans disrupted,I settled in and made the best of it.l grew at a rate that I never could have in civilian life.I was offered skills to use during my life.I learned to embrace fear,mourn without shutting down,and cherish the lifelong friends I have made. The military is a whole lot more than what's on the movie screen.Your age is certainly not a deterrent to join the military.

Response by SGT Jeff Bush made Apr 19 at 2020 8:42 PM

2020-04-19T20:42:55-04:00

I’m chuckling a little to myself right now since I served from the ages of 36 to 41 as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, ran 4 to 6 miles three times per week for 5 years. Why on earth would you be worried about your age when it’s your heart and attitude that will determine how far you will go. Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re probably right either way. September 11th happened right as I finished graduate school and I enlisted very soon after completing my Ph.D. at age 36 and with two degrees and probably 400 credits under my belt as a direct commission would have taken much longer, so I humbled myself and enlisted as a specialist to serve the country I love.

Why would you want more college beforehand or part time when it can all be free after you get out? I’d enlist for three years active and see if you like it over your first contract. Then get out and use your Post 911 GI bill- Chapter 33 benefits and let the Army pay for the rest of your education.

Response by SGT Lenise Hamilton made Apr 24 at 2020 6:40 PM

2020-04-24T18:40:18-04:00

The choice is yours Ashley, your the only one that have to live with your decision. I have a brother that was in the Marines back in the 90's he did 3yrs. Moving forward, my brother went back in 2016, and joined Army Reserves, he needed a waiver which was given to him, because he's now old as dirt :-), however, he's an officer now, he's a nurse. I can say that my brother took a leap of faith, and it worked for him, he's now working on his Capt. Promotion, at least that was the plan prior to this COVID virus taking place. Any who/how, what ever you do, just take a leap of faith, I'm sure you will not have any regrets. All the best to you....

Response by COL Jon Lopey made Apr 24 at 2020 8:23 PM

2020-04-24T20:23:08-04:00

Ashley: You are very young and should do well. I am retired from the military but I am in full-time law enforcement. Most agencies have dropped their maximum age limits because of several factors, such as age discrimination laws and the fact many people are fully capable of soldiering and being in law enforcement in their 30's, 40's, 50',s and even 60's, depending on their health and mental and physical readiness. One big factor today is that most people do not smoke. When I joined the USMC during the Viet Nam Era, many more service members smoked and more drank as well, which sometimes negatively influenced their health. If you stay physically fit and work hard you will last for decades in the military or challenging jobs like law enforcement. I was still moving pretty fast in my 50's while in OEF and OIF because I stayed in good shape and to this day still do so. I wish you the best! I read a story about a guy who became a reserve deputy sheriff in Texas when he was 70. He retired last year at 98! Sadly, he died this year but he was evidently able to do his job in water safety prior to his retirement! COL L

Response by TSgt James Potter made Apr 24 at 2020 9:30 PM

2020-04-24T21:30:38-04:00

Join at 25 retire at 45. See the world. Let the government pay for the rest of your college. You have no ties right now. You won't regret it.

Response by 1SG Thomas Jasak made Apr 24 at 2020 10:57 PM

2020-04-24T22:57:10-04:00

I joined the Army in 1996 at the age of 28 with a wife of 4 years at the time with 4 foster children and having financial issues and ended up filing for bankruptcy during AIT. I figured I would do 4 years to learn a new skill and take it from there. I applied myself with my wife pushing me and ended up doing 22 years active duty and retiring as a First Sergeant and very proud of my career. I also earned an associates, bachelors and masters degree while in the military. I was able to invest and save enough money over the years that when I retired from the military 3 years ago I was financially set that I don't have to work and only work part time at the Post Office to keep busy. Hope this helps you out and would definitely consider going active duty.

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Apr 25 at 2020 12:55 AM

2020-04-25T00:55:23-04:00

40; however, I believe the officers are 34. Years ago I saw a doctor who came in at 51. He was an LC and had practiced medicine for 19 or 20 years in private practice.

Response by TSgt Joe C. made Apr 25 at 2020 10:56 AM

2020-04-25T10:56:20-04:00

I joined when I was 24 and turned 25 in basic training Ashley Nicole. I was the oldest recruit, but also more mature and wiser. I am not too far off in retiring now. I've enjoyed my time in the Air Force!

Response by SFC Jeremy Boyd made Apr 25 at 2020 11:38 AM

2020-04-25T11:38:33-04:00

Speaking specifically from the perspective of a recruiter, in regard to the question posed, you are nowhere close to being too old to join. Authorized Army enlistment age for non-prior service is between 17 to 35, by which I mean you have to have shipped to Basic Combat Training by your 35th birthday. As a caveat, the Army's target age group for enlistment is 17 to 24, and since you just turned 25 you are still an ideal applicant.

Considering that you have some life experience and maturity at age 25 and have 40 college credits (which is more than the average Army applicant has), I'd say enlist for active duty, provided you meet all other qualifications. You will start at pay grade E-2 based upon your college credits and it is a great way to have some stability as you further develop your plan. You will receive full time pay and benefits, not incur most of the costs of living (i.e. rent, food, utilities, electric, etc., provided you live in enlisted barracks and take advantage of the dining facility), and have tuition assistance available to continue your college education. With all of those expenses taken care of, provided you exercise at least moderate financial responsibility, you can also buy a car. That is my two cents.

Response by 1LT Peter Duston made Apr 28 at 2020 9:10 AM

2020-04-28T09:10:00-04:00

My daughter was a single Mom, renting, struggling with debt half way through college and 34. Against my better judgement due to her age, she joined the Army National Guard as a medic. She got a bonus, eraned enough during basic and AIT to buya modest house, had the Army paying her student loans, got a better car and MGIB benefits to finish college. She's now 10 years in and has had an amazing career now including 3 Air Medals, one with Valor. I am proud of her and grateful for the time our grandchildren lived with us when she was in training or deployed. We even got to take her children Space-A to Europe twice when she was deployed down range. Go for it! PS: I re0enlisted in the Army Reserve at age 47 after a 12 year break. You can do it!

Response by SGT Herbert Bollum made Apr 28 at 2020 12:40 PM

2020-04-28T12:40:57-04:00

I worked at heavy equipment operating for seven years before joining.. was 29 and loved almost all of my time..yes there are some days you wonder why you joined. It was definitely worth it and I would join again at 72+ Go take the entrance tests and see what jobs you qualify for , then make a decision based on those scores. I went for electronics / radar repair because I wanted to get some other field than construction. I know I probably could have gotten more rank faster if I went into construction MOS, but then I would not have learned anything new.

Response by SPC Dwight Turner made Apr 28 at 2020 12:54 PM

2020-04-28T12:54:35-04:00

stay in military you'll earn more but when or if you decide to getting out college will always be there !!!! some seniors have went to college and received a degree they wanted !!!! your still young if I were you i'd stay in military !!! great place to start !!!!!

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Apr 28 at 2020 1:08 PM

2020-04-28T13:08:31-04:00

Ashley, Treat it as a job with a great chance for advancement. As much as I hate to say this, "...be all you can be..." Work hard, KNOW you job!!! Once your training is over with and you are settled into a routine, then begin to socialize. A drunk, lazy or tardy solder is useless to the service and is usually flagged a "unreliable". Also, your advancement prospects begin to dry up.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2020 3:41 PM

2020-04-28T15:41:39-04:00

If you have some college behind you why don’t you look into the ROTC program. I’m a retired Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer and I used to be a Gunnery Sergeant before that. I’ve always wanted to be a Marine. So with that in mind, think about your future now not later. Any branch of the services are great. Different but great. The people are great doing the best they can with what they have. If you want to lead men and women who are like you and me committed to something bigger than yourself, then look into becoming an officer. Good luck with your future endeavors.

Response by SrA Angela Johnson made May 6 at 2020 3:45 PM

2020-05-06T15:45:31-04:00

I was 26 when I joined, with 66 college credits. But I was much like you. I didn't know yet what I wanted to be when I grew up, was working dead-end jobs and debating whether college was really where I wanted to go. I'd always thought about the military though, so I looked into it and quickly made the choice. The military, as so many have said, is a great place to get experience, help with more college, a possible career for afterwards, and gives you time to decide what more you want to do, whether you stay in or get out. And they pay you, house you, and feed you for the duration. So from the standpoint of not being completely sure where you're going, it's a great place to start, no matter where you end up later. And if the idea motivates you, then it sounds like it is a good option for you. Plus, by the time you get out, whether 4 years or 24, you'll have learned self-discipline and how to make decisions and follow through. Good luck, whichever decision you make!

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2020 10:44 PM

2020-05-08T22:44:21-04:00

My recommendation to Ashley is to join and enlist for three years and find out if the military life is for you. At 25 you are still in prime age to join as long as you are physically and mentally ready. If you like the military lifestyle and make it a career, you can always do college while in the military. Most bases will have a satellite campus for several accredited institutions.
Follow your gut, and push yourself.... perhaps the military is the motivation you need to formulate a plan.
There is not really a recipe to say at what age is too old to join. It depends on the individual's physical and mental conditioning.

Response by MSgt George Fillgrove made May 9 at 2020 7:36 AM

2020-05-09T07:36:50-04:00

People join the military for one or a combination of three reasons. They join to achieve a goal, seek recognition they may not be able to achieve in their current circumstances, or as a sense of belonging to something bigger then themselves.

If your desire to join fulfills any one or a combination of those reasons then it is worthwhile to do. Otherwise, you are wasting your time and the clock is ticking. You may someday look back at this time as an unfulfilled opportunity that may even become an obstacle to your life goals, leading to deep regret. You may also view this time as that one choice that sent your life down a different very rewarding path.

I would just ask you to take into consideration what would best fit within your career goals. In other words, the National Guard and Reserve may give you added incentives to do your service part-time while attending college. You may chose military service first and find a job that ignites a passion leading to you future.

I attended college first then entered the Air Force as an enlisted man. I wasn't going anywhere and was very restless. My Air Force service and training led to two follow-up professional careers -- one of which I have now served 21 years in state government.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2020 8:09 AM

2020-05-10T08:09:31-04:00

Actually IMHO there shouldn't be an age limit to get into the military. The true restriction should be, is the person broke? Can the individual do PT or perform their job. Can the individual carry a ruck for 20 miles? Look at my career active duty 1980-94, reserve 94-01, active duty 01(at age 39) though 2013 when I retired at the age of 51. At that age I was still able to PT and perform in my AFSC.

Response by SSG Steven Gotz made May 18 at 2020 12:04 AM

2020-05-18T00:04:33-04:00

I was 25 when I enlisted in 1978. It physically hurt for a while but I got over it and had a great experience.

Response by 1SG Thomas Jasak made May 18 at 2020 12:14 AM

2020-05-18T00:14:41-04:00

I went Active duty in the Amy at 27 years old and turned 28 during basic training. I was working as retail manager of 6 stores and doing very well and had an associates and bachelors degree when I joined. I also was married with 2 foster children. I decided that I did not want to be in the retail world the rest of my life and joined the Army to learn a new skill and do 4 years and see how it goes. I ended up doing 22 years of active duty and retired 3 years ago as a 1SG and while I was in I got another associates, bachelors and masters degree and ended up adopting 5 children from 3 different families. To say the least joining the military was definitely the right choice for me and still retired at 49 years old and now work part time at the USPS so that I can keep busy and make a little extra money for vacations and investments etc... Also, my battle buddy in basic training turned 35 the day after I turned 28 and both of us did very well in basic training and our careers because we were more mature than most and we also did very well keeping up physically with the younger Soldiers. Good luck and sounds like you have a new plan that will hopefully turn out very well for you.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made May 18 at 2020 1:37 AM

2020-05-18T01:37:21-04:00

75; I'm 73.
;)

Response by SGT Herbert Bollum made May 18 at 2020 2:02 PM

2020-05-18T14:02:21-04:00

I have seen an item about drafting guys over 40 or something and will try to find it

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2020 2:14 PM

2020-05-18T14:14:04-04:00

I enlisted at 23 years old and commissioned at 31 years old. You will be fine, enjoy the ride.

Response by PO2 Paul Dempsey made May 18 at 2020 3:04 PM

2020-05-18T15:04:12-04:00

My age chuckling 62

Response by LTC Laura Wickett made May 18 at 2020 3:51 PM

2020-05-18T15:51:45-04:00

Let me answer your question from two perspectives.
1 Your college career can be paid for by the military if you qualify for scholarships.
2. The military can clear your mind as to what you think your future is. You can make it a career and go to college at the same time, or get out and use the G.I. Bill.
I was a Professor of Military Science at a State University. I guided many students who would not have gotten their college education had it not been for being in ROTC.
I worked two jobs most of my college career in order to achieve that goal. If I had known about scholarships and ROTC I probably would not have taken 6 years to get my undergraduate degree.
Ask yourself what it is you want to do in the military and make it something you can transfer to a civilian occupation, whether you get out as an officer (ROTC ) or enlisted.
Good Luck and you are not too old to enlist. If you go the ROTC route, you must receive your commission no later than your 32nd birthday. ( that's what the age limit was when I was a PMS).

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2020 5:26 PM

2020-05-18T17:26:19-04:00

Honestly, it's all about your motivation and dedication but not to the army but to yourself. If you put in a 100% effort you'll reap the results of a 100% effort. I joined at the ripe age of 30 and graduated at 31 and I realized once in my unit that it's the easiest job I have ever had.

Response by LTC Lee Bouchard made May 19 at 2020 2:12 AM

2020-05-19T02:12:23-04:00

25 is not to old!! Just be in good shape and the will to succeed. Your age may be a benefit as you will be wiser and smarter than a 18 year old. Keep a low profile and don't draw attention to yourself. Watch others and don't make the mistakes they make. Speak only when spoken to. Carry yourself and walk with a purpose. Show confidence in everything you do and say. You will do well.
The Drills will focus on those who need help not those who show strength.

Have fun. Look for humor not fear.
Cheers and have a great future.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made May 19 at 2020 9:15 AM

2020-05-19T09:15:57-04:00

Go for it Ashley Nicole! I enlisted at the age of 20 and made it through easy enough. Your aptitude and testings will determine what military specialty you're best suited for but if you have an option, ask for it. Having a Veteran's experience will also be to your advantage in life--whether it's for four years or twenty. Let us know what you decide.

Response by PO2 Ed Taylor made May 25 at 2020 11:42 PM

2020-05-25T23:42:59-04:00

To begin with 24 - 25 ain't old. I served until I was 45 and the only reason I got out was I just could not keep up with the kids any more. ( I had just got over a bout of pneumonia ) The army also offers college courses that many have retired after 20 years with more than one degree, but this all depends on the soldier. This could also be a way into the officers core. There are no officers more respected than those who have risen through the ranks.If I had it all to do over I wold have stayed for 20 or more. I served 12 and a half years and 23 months in viet nam. 2 tours on coastl patrol and degausing duty and 2 tours in the MCB'S (navy). I was also a training nco un the ilarng under CAC, active duty instructing.
During the time of Moses and the Isrelites, Many of th tribes of isreals soldiers were between 18 and 50 years old. There were over 300,000 battle ready soldiers. good choices to you Ed TaylorEO2/SGT

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Jun 1 at 2020 2:00 AM

2020-06-01T02:00:05-04:00

Joining the military is a positive, decisive plan. You know that you will be trained in and learn a skill that may become a lifelong endeavor, and you will become familiar with both group and self-discipline, something that those of us who have been there still use. Once you're settled in, take a few more courses, perhaps related to your job, and prepare yourself for the next step in your life, whether it happens in 4 or 20-30 years. Always do your best and you'll be surprised at the results. As my son would say, you're "adulting" and that's a good thing. You have made a wise choice.

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made Jun 1 at 2020 5:32 PM

2020-06-01T17:32:47-04:00

Good choice go for it! You will not regret it. Ensure that you serve in an MOS that will challenge you. You can continue your education while serving and the military will encourage you to do so, not easy but doable. Choice of MOS critical so do your research. Good Luck.

Response by 1SG Michael Brooks made Jun 17 at 2020 8:58 AM

2020-06-17T08:58:55-04:00

Go full time. Whatever job you qualify for...do it as best you can. After your first enlistment you will have a good idea if you are a fit for the military, AND the military will be making its decisions if you are a good fit(via promotion).

If you are a slacker, you will probably not find the military as "great" job.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Jun 21 at 2020 5:21 AM

2020-06-21T05:21:22-04:00

When I went to boot camp, the oldest guys in the unit were 34.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2020 8:52 PM

2020-06-21T20:52:30-04:00

Went through OSUT at 29, if you’re gonna do it then do it. You’ll always be able to find an excuse holding you back but those who want it bad enough just go get it.

Response by PO2 Danielle Bohanan made Jun 28 at 2020 7:51 PM

2020-06-28T19:51:23-04:00

I joined the military at 17 and did 5 years as an aviation Electronics Technician and 5 years as a personnel specialist. I spent 2 years getting an Associates degree but also managed to get my Bachelors degree concurrently in 11 months before I got out of the military. A lot of my work transferred over to college credits and I also went to a community College online while I went to school on the weekends.
I was married and had a child so you can do whatever you set your mind to.
2 years after I got out of the military I went to school using my G.I. Bill and obtained a Master's Degree. I was 28 when I finished my Bachelors and 32 when I finished my Master's Degree. You have time.

Response by PO2 Danielle Bohanan made Jun 28 at 2020 7:53 PM

2020-06-28T19:53:36-04:00

My husband joined at 28 and also has his Bachelors and Master's Degree in the same thing that i do. He joined the military at 27 and is still currently active duty. He is a CMC. Its definitely not too late for you.

Response by PO2 Nasser Montes made Jul 15 at 2020 6:29 PM

2020-07-15T18:29:33-04:00

In Boot camp the youngest guy in my company was 17 and the oldest was 35. At 35, the guy had more life experience and kept up during our PE runs. The 17 year old was already a father. I do not know what happened to either of them , but you at 25 will be fine. Best of luck.

Response by AA Loreen Silvarahawk made Aug 2 at 2020 5:27 PM

2020-08-02T17:27:37-04:00

Active duty will teach you much more than going to college. The experiences outweigh any piece of paper. The plus is traveling all over the world.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2020 9:24 AM

2020-08-07T09:24:21-04:00

Go Active military it will give you some time to figure out what you want to do with your life. Plus you will earn the new G.I. Bill should you want college later. I should also point out it is possible although very difficult to attend college while in the military after Basic and AIT of course. I know several who did so and acquired Bachelor degree and one who got a PHD.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2020 10:54 AM

2020-08-07T10:54:14-04:00

I don't think it's a age thing, more of a health thing, if you have prior issues physically or mentally the Military will break you down and having prior issues will definitely make it worse than what it could be, I know soilders 30-50 that still can run gun and have fun like the best of them so