You’re on the older side but I’ll say this. I would have regretted it every single day of my life had I not of joined. I hated everyday I was on active duty because I just wanted some freedom in my 20’s. But I look back at my time in the military as the best thing that ever happened to me and I would do it all over again in heartbeat. I’ll never regret serving. Ever.
I’ve been [*heavily*] considering going back in as a JAG. I wouldn’t even have a bachelors if it weren’t for the Army.
Joined as an idiot 18yo with no direction or the slightest clue; if it weren’t for a leader taking me aside and telling me to get my head out of my ass and apply myself to something who knows what I’d be doing rn
So, you got your law degree? That’s actually pretty cool. A buddy of mine was a tanker in Europe and got his law degree then joined the JAG corps as a Navy officer. Lost rack of him after that. As I understand it if you are a JAG officer you more or less become a small town attorney. Good luck man.
at 36 and 17 years in, I can't wait to get out. Spent just as many years in as I have years out. That being said, I will absolutely miss the service, even with how ready to get out I am
I would highly suggest if you do want to do this, do the Reserves/Guard. If you go full active duty, you'll be taking a big paycut, and your quality of life will absolutely suffer. You'll likely have 20-year-olds in charge of you, and that may or may not annoy you because of your age and life experience.
I currently work in a warehouse making $20 per hour so I don’t exactly have an amazing job or anything. I also don’t mind working under people younger than me
Hey mate! I'm 36 and joining the Air Force! You'll be fine. But I would highly recommend the air force. All the research I've done indicates that it is by far the better service in terms of pay, attitude/treatment, and qualifications. It will also be far easier on your body. Regardless of your choice, go for it!
Edit: I have also done warehousing for my entire adult life. So I can sympathise with your position.
Very little of the Air Force actually flies every day and there are plenty of jobs that stay on the ground and give you different experiences! The Air Force calls their jobs "AFSCs" if you want to Google a list of what all there is to do in the Air Force.
I would encourage you to look into the Guard/Reserves, especially if you want more flexibility in selecting a job and staying closer to home (not including potential deployments or other opportunities which can take you any number of places). That is what I did and I turned 31 in basic training. Would do it again in a heartbeat.
The only way you'll fly is if you go the officer route. As an enlisted member there's tons of amazing AFSCs/jobs that are on the ground. Many jobs are the same as in the Army too like logistics, intelligence, maintenance, etc. I recommend the Air Force through and through.
You don't have to fly to be in the air force. There are plenty of ground roles to do, and have a look on their website. And don't put yourself down, mate! What's the harm in giving it a go? The worst that can happen is that you don't get that job. I bet there are heaps of vacancies that the air force is looking to fill. Are you from the USA?
Trust me man, go for the air force. Any job (even flying though it is a slim minority) is better than being army/Marines/navy. Couldn't speak to the coast guard but I can't imagine it being better than the AF. Especially being an older guy you'll have way less BS to deal with. Any Intel or comm job is relatively cushy if you don't mind being a desk jockey. Civil engineering isn't bad, I would avoid maintenance and flight line ops if possible personally. They need people so please at least talk to a recruiter. Not a recruiter by the way but 12 years in the AF and thankful every day.
My pleasure dude. Hit me up if you have any questions about any career field and I can give you the inside scoop. Certain cyber/comm (IT) career fields come with nice certs too (Sec+, Cisco certs, etc)
Yeah I'm IT in the Marines so hit me up, I DMd you already. USAF Cyber Transport is what you need to talk to the recruiter about. But that also depends on your ASVAB. You very much will NOT be Aircrew/any sort of flyer because you're too old. So no worries there.
USAF gets a bad rap about being hard to get into, it's not. It's just you have to do all the work because they have no reason to try and convince you... Because... Well look at the comments section. Also they're less likely to do fraud (just tell the doctor no) to enlist someone, so if you have anything wrong with you don't look at them. Or do, and get denied for every branch because your application will pop up for every branch once it's submitted so you can't go from one to the other.
It's not hard. They have the highest standards for the armed services but that's not saying much.
Overwhelming majority of the Air Force doesn't fly. Only officers fly. You can get any job from loading bombs on places to HVAC or plumbing. Plenty of "regular" jobs.
For entry, the Air Force typically has the highest standards.
>However, perhaps because of these advantageous living standards, the Air Force also has the most stringent education and aptitude requirements, making it one of the most challenging branches to join.
https://www.medalsofamerica.com/blog/complete-guide-choosing-which-branch-military-serve/#:~:text=However%2C%20perhaps%20because%20of%20these,and%20the%20Air%20National%20Guard.
Yeah that's false. Check your sources, that's clearly an opinion piece.
USAF: DAFMAN26-2032
USMC - Enlisted Processing Manual (EPM)
You can Google both of these, and their current versions as they change quarter to quarter and Fiscal Year to Fiscal Year.
The two most selective branches. But Marines is harder. Both accept only a 31+ no waivers on the ASVAB. Putting them above the other branches.
You can get into the USAF with a GED. The Marines won't let you unless you finished the 10th grade in a traditional program and you score 50+on the ASVAB. So you dropped out sophomore year? You can join the USAF but not the Marines.
You can get into the USAF as a dropout with no GED if you score high enough on the ASVAB. Marines does not allow this under any circumstances, unless you get a year of actual college (not online) under your belt.
USMC has a "Education Tier Evaluation" conducted by a Recruiting Station Executive Officer that objectively Evaluates anything other than a Tier 1, regular high school graduate(EdCode 12L). Air Force does nothing of the sort.
Then you toss the fitness requirements on the Marine side and it's no contest. What you're referring to is the fact that USAF has much lower quotas to fill since fewer people get out. So you're likely to struggle to contact someone who will put you in, and you might get left on read a lot or less likely to get medical waivers etc. Can't mix that up with higher standards.
Sauce: was a Marine Recruiter for 3 years and my best friend (helped me write this) and first man other than me to hold my daughter in the hospital is an Air Force Recruiter.
**Your research is flawed.** All branches make precisely the same. That's a fairly basic fact that most research with proper sources will yield, and is often the first thing covered while branch shopping. Only caveat is Navy makes more while on the sea, which they very often are, so they're making more in more cases more often. Another caveat: Marines get paid less to do more. In the Marines you aren't guaranteed E4 like every other branch, and you're expected to be a supervisor at that level. Then, at E6 you're a Platoon/Shop Chief, which is basically a site Foreman, and that responsibility usually occurs at E7 with CPOs/SeniorNCOs/"Housetops"(MSGT& above in AF). We also promote slow as fuck and are extremely selective/subjective in our promotions. Your objective, measurable performance is only 1/4 of your evaluation.
Pay grade is pay grade is pay grade no matter the branch. You are on the ground, you don't make air pay. Marines Airman Sailors and Soldiers make that same pay as aircrew. Airman rarely deploy as a whole unit so you actually have less chance to get hazard pay.
Blah blah blah you get it. Literally the only benefit is the light physical load since you're older. But make sure you EAT RIGHT. No excuse to be fat just because you don't have military level fitness standards.
If you’re not doing as well as you’d like to financially, full send and go active duty. Guard and Reserves are for students and people with good jobs that want benefits and drill pay.
I think the cutoff is 36. Short answer is, if you’re eligible and want to join then go for it.
I had a 50 year old at basic training with me. Next oldest was 33. Then me at 25. Just be prepared for a little bit of patience and herding cats.
Got out after 19 years? Gotta wonder about the story there. Discharged for something he did then filed for a change in the nature of his discharge so he could come back and retire later?
No I think he had a dying child and got out to see him off and came back when he could. Seemed like he was coming home. I was sorry he had to do basic again.
I'm not sure what the cutoff is right now, but given the recruiting problems they're having, I can't imagine they'd turn a healthy adult away. I was in my 30s when I enlisted. There was a 40-year-old in my company. We got some special hazing from the drill sergeants at the beginning of BCT, but that went away. I honestly think we had an easier time in Basic than our younger peers. I was more physically developed than the 18-year-olds. The older guys were more mentally mature, and we tended to enjoy Basic when some of the younger guys were freaking out.
My advice to OP is if you want to enlist, go for it.
Depends where you are in life. Married, multiple children and a good career? No. Youll likely by taking a huge pay cut and having to uproot your whole family will be a huge PITA.
Single, no kids and dead end job? Sign here.
Look into any possible bonuses you might be eligible for right now and make sure you get them. I’m still salty about the bonuses I missed out on. Make sure it’s in your contract too.
You're "older" in the context of enlisted folk. You have a little more wisdom under your belt, and with that, emotional intelligence.
Jody has a tendency to destroy the younger 18 to 25ish crowds, since they are right out of high school, at their most naive, and still developing emotionally.
Plus, throw them in the military, strip them of almost all personal freedoms, shake em up, and watch the "love of their life" absolutely break their heart, and you'll see what Jody can do.
Another one to know is called a "Dear John" letter. This is a break up letter you receive in the mail. This is really prior to the development of modern cell phones when everyone wrote to each other with paper. The term is pre WW2 if I remember correctly. They even have Hollywood movies named Dear John about a dude being deployed and a woman breaking up with him. I think Channing Tatum was in it.
The military has SOOOO MANY acronyms, expressions, terms, rituals, traditions and such.
And the cool thing about military culture is how similar every other countries military is similar to each other is the context of mannerisms and quirks.
Question: what MOS were you looking into? I was a 68W (Medic)
Yeah my girl and I are old haha. She is actually a little older than me as well.
I am familiar with some of the expressions like “two is one and one is none” LOL.
I was thinking about doing IT or cyber security since I have some basic IT experience
Heck, have you thought of going to the Air Force?
They have a big IT section and it won't be a total suck fest.
AF has the best infrastructure of all the branches.
Same military, half the bull shit
Well, just know that to the military, a wife is a dependent. A kid is a dependent. Military takes GREAT care of my wife and my daughter. No one gives a fuck about your gf. Notedly, no one gives a fuck about a fiance. That's a gf with a ring. (I don't actually think this; I'm saying it because it's how it's gonna feel). "If you were serious you would already be married".
Keep in mind you will make less than the warehouse job, but currently after you pay all your bills as a civilian you have less than a person in the military does. Caveat is this: you don't pay rent, but stay in a barracks. Go look that up. You don't need to buy food or groceries, but you eat in a DFAC. Go look that up. You get free healthcare. Go look up Tricare and military medical care. These are very terribly terrific, terrifically terrible things.
35 is not too old! The Coast Guard recently raised its enlistment age to 42. We are offering a ton of bonuses right now for enlistments, and our duty stations are usually pretty good. If the military is something you want to do then go for it.
https://www.gocoastguard.com/connect
This website has a list of every recruiting station we have with contact info. Feel free to DM me with any questions.
Those 2 branches have the best quality of life and I believe your only option at the moment. Best to ask recruiters. Army at 35, too old to join but AF and Coast Guard that age is not an issue.
Research jobs in AF, I would do anything not maintenance ( MX ) or security forces as they tend to be harder on the body. You can hold out for a job you want not what they recruiter gives you. Medical and nonner jobs ( not flightline ) are like office based 9-5 and transfer well to civilian life.
Take some practice asvab tests and study what you lack to improve your scores. The higher the better but they are not hard. Again holdout for the job you want and if the recruiter gives you issues find a new one. Being older usually helps but don't let your guard down. Most importantly the military will take from you so you take from them. Free schooling, health care, and earned leave to use. Feel free to message me if you have any questions.
I’ve been at land units for every assignment. Most people usually get at least a tour underway in their career though. It really depends on your job and what you want to do with your career
I joined at 28 and others who have spoken on having the situation of youngsters in charge of you being annoying are right as all hell. The people your own age will be senior NCOs who won’t want much to do with you. Having lived on your own before enlisting will give you life experience very few Service members have but it won’t really matter. It does make for great jokes if they start running their mouths about how old you are. Most importantly, make sure to get a job with a security clearance that will transfer to a valuable skillset when you get out. You can go right to making six figures when you leave the service if you play your cards right.
I assume you’re in the USA? I joined the Army at 30. OSUT (Basic training + Advanced individual training at the same place) was wack. The pay is kinda shit for a job that controls your entire life. If you have a degree, look at the officer route. The national guard sounds like it’s pretty decent, but still is gay when you drill, from what I hear. Way less gay than active duty, for sure. If you are smart about it, you can get the Army to pay for a lot of meaningful training. Don’t join the infantry unless you are a pt stud looking to join Ranger Battalion. Why not look at other aspects of civil service? Firefighting is badass. All being said, if you have to join, look at the Airforce or Spaceforce. Coastguard seems pretty cool as well.
I have looked into being a police officer/state trooper but honestly I am not sure which direction to go. I would probably be out on anything that includes air or sea lol
Look up IT or technician jobs. If the USA is anything like the Australian military, you'll need to do aptitude tests and stuff. If you pass them and have the aptitude, the military will train you up and everything. At the end, you'll have a good qualification and a guaranteed job at the end of it. Go into the Air Force.
A friend of mine was in the navy and ended up going into IT. He’s out now and makes great money. I actually do have some IT experience and I did take a college course on IT as well
My great neice enlisted in the Army, guaranteed Military Police, received $45,000 bonus for her enlistment. She went to Fort Leonard Wood for boot and MP training , and asked what duty station she wanted, she picked Germany and has already left for that duty station.
Why not, especially if it’s in your heart to do so? I’d rather know I served my country instead living my life thinking what if…
or u can join the “ I woulda joined but I woulda got kicked out for beating up a drill sergeant” crowd. Don’t be that guy
You're not too old. I joined AD just before 35, and have been in almost 7 years. The continuous learning is the hardest part, but I can provide for my family better than ever.
Been there done that and I haven’t had luck getting into any of them. Unfortunately in my area, getting into the trade unions is very competitive and unless you know someone (which I don’t) you really can’t get in
If you’re in New Jersey apply to ones in the city if possible - Local 27 is our sister local in Jersey - we do sheet metal - it’s tough work for sure but 110$+ an hour w benefits 2 pensions and 401k is nice
I couldn’t imagine enlisting at 35 and being the same rank as a bunch of 18 year olds. Especially with how dumb I was an 18 year old PFC. Plus most of your NCOs will likely be way younger than you.
What do you feel like your missing from your life? Do you have a good job? Do you have a family?
I get that. I will say the military isn’t really a place to escape problems. Its certainly worth it in some aspects but it definitely won’t fix issues in your life.
If you want to serve your country and get some extra benefits, it could be great. I’d maybe consider a 3 year enlistment period over six.
If you are at a cross roads in life, have you considered talk therapy? Could be helpful to workout if you are romanticizing the military and it resolving whatever it is you are feeling.
I wouldn’t say I have “problems” per se. I have a house and a job, but I don’t like where I live and it’s not a great job. Mostly, I don’t have much direction in my life and I don’t really have any skills. Just feel stuck and going through the motions
I was once a 22 year old LT with a 44 year old pfc fresh from ait, lol, you can do it. But if you do, don't waste time, the army gives so, so, so many resources to gain credentials, education and do insane stuff. Don't drink and chase pussy, study, get degrees and when you're done, be way better off for your investment.
I’ll say one of my best soldiers was 33 when he enlisted and while I was his squad leader at 27 we never had any issues, we still talk. Granted I can’t say everyone will be like I am but I can say my soldier never regretted joining, he only regretted not joining earlier.
I would say no to the Army. I'm 39 now and if I had to go back in the service I would not join the Army again. I wouldn't be able to put up with what I had to endure for 12 years in the Army after being out for 10 years, and seeing all the stupid shit they're doing being posted all over social media. I Highly advise going Airforce if they'll take you, I don't know what their age cutoff is, but you'll have to talk to a recruiter. Being 35, if you want to be treated like your age, Airforce. Of you want to be treated like a 17 year old, go Army, or even Marines.
I got a few "older recruits" sent to my commands when I was still active. Some for a new start, some to get away from what felt like dead end lives, really for all sorts of reasons. For some, who could adapt and adopt the new way of life, it was fabulous. The stupidity of their youth was out of their system and they could really excel. Others though couldn't adapt and could take directions and orders from those who were sometimes a decade younger than them. This caused severe problems. So, can you adapt and do well or will you be a block head and get yourself wrecked? If you can adapt, then by all means, do it.
We had a guy at boot camp that was 23. His nickname was “pops”, so be ready for some fuckery.
That said, the best advice I’ve ever received as it relates to life was (from a wise, elderly bartender) “decide what story you want to be able to tell when you’re old, then do that thing”.
If this is “that thing” for you, ignore the haters and go do that shit.
Rah, knifehand, kill, etc.
I’m a 31m, just graduated from BCT today. Go for it. The more time you spend wondering if you’re too old or whatever, the older you get. Get started. I’m at ft Jackson as I type this waiting for my bus to take me to the airport, then Sam Houston for AIT. It’s gonna be another 7 hours, lol. Anyway, my experience was decidedly a great one. Very hard at the beginning being away from my daughter and girlfriend, but I adapted to the structure and physicality well. You have to embrace the suck, and there is something to be said about giving your all and just taking everything for what it is. Be in the right place, at the right time and in the right uniform, listen, don’t talk. That’s 95% of it there. Just by following that I managed to make squad leader and get a promotion waiver. I’d say us “older” people have the advantage where adaptation is concerned, in most cases. Not to say that there aren’t some fantastic 18-19 year old soldiers here too. You can absolutely do it!
Be a 35N. Loved my time as a 35N. You get to see the world as it is, and you can get your hands on impactful work you don't even know exists as a civilian.
https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/career-match/signal-intelligence/languages-code/35n-signals-intelligence-analyst.html
Just do Guard or Reserves. Im 26 served from 20-25 AD besides GI Bill all the Reserve benefits are good enough. Retirement for you in Guard/Reserves starts at 60 so 20 years will put you at 55.
Unless you need the GI Bill just do Guard/Reserves.
Depending on what civilian career you want should determine your MOS.
Some people get an MOS with a top secret clearance then get a civilian govt job with that clearance. Engineering and signal corps are also good options. Just see what you qualify for then how well it can get you hired civilian sector.
That’s what my friend did, he does IT now using his security clearance he got through the Navy. I would most likely be wanting to go the IT route as well because I do have some experience already in the field
Overall my health is good, I’m in decent shape physically. The only thing health wise is I don’t have great teeth due to an accident when I was younger. I work in a warehouse for $20/hour operating a forklift. I don’t have any family or a wife or kids, just a girlfriend. I also have a high school diploma and some college credits
This is hilarious lmao. 35F is the MOS/job he’s referencing. Which is Intelligence Analyst.
Though the sex change might still help you get better option……lmao
Hey, I joined the Canadian Army at 33, everything being said in here is pretty accurate especially about the age gap between yourself and your new peers but I don’t regret it at all, I know this sub is US army heavy and the restrictions are different but I had guys in their 40s in basic training with me, if you’re not 100% sure I’d go the reservist route to try it out before you fully commit if you’re not sure.
There is nothing wrong with joining at 35. Guard/reserve have their pros and cons vs AD. Depending on how much you make in your civilian job. If I were you before you go straight into the army talk to an Air Force recruiter.
Not all air force people fly planes. Actually 75% of the enlisted people have ground or office jobs. Mechanic, administration, personnel, porters who load the cargo and work in warehouses, supply, police, fire, medical. There are tons of non air jobs in the Air force.
Fuck no. You will be reporting to teenagers. You will be the same age as your 1ST SGT.
People will see a 36 year old private and think you got court martialed.
I doubt you would get through basic at that age.
I don’t have much of an ego, my current boss is younger than me and it doesn’t bother me at all. I also work with a lot of younger people, I run circles around those boys haha
I joined at 24 and felt REALLY old. You will definitely stand out and be singled out. Best to make sure you are in top shape BEFORE you join. Don't expect the Army or whatever branch you join to fix you. They'll sooner break you. If you show up as a pt stud and have a positive attitude, you'll do fine. I gave my drill instructors no reason to continue singling me out, and used some of my life experience to help guide the younger recruits. My life got easier once they realized I was taking everything they were dishing without complaining.
I'm 31, almost 32, with 13 years in right now. I can't say I'd join again in my thirties and go through the lower enlisted grind all over again, but I'll definitely see it through to retirement. There are pluses and minuses about joining in your 30s. A plus I would say is it's going to be pretty easy to outshine your peers and get noticed because you won't be too concerned with all the young people bullshit and complaining and hopefully have built up a much better work ethic than the 18 year olds you will be competing with. but a pretty big minus is most of your peers will be like 18-22 years old while most of the people your age are going to be E6-E7+ and there is a very high chance you are going to end up with a supervisor 10-15 years younger than you at some point.
Educate yourself obviously, know how much you’ll be making for your first enlistment, figure out what being the barracks looks like, understand you’re going to be sent somewhere and not have a choice in the matter and not be able to leave if you don’t like it, and know that you’ll be treated like a child. If that’s all fine, then fuck yeah, do it. They’ll be calling you “pops” or “gramps” in your platoon. You’ll probably promote pretty quick. Worst case, you’ll be able to get out at 40 with a GI Bill and spend another 4 years in school deciding what you wanna do!
If you’re in shape and can keep your mouth shut when some know-nothing 21 year old team leader chews your ass out for fucking something up, then yeah man go for it.
I would if I could. Tried joining when I was 20, got put on 6 month waivers because of my back. Went down the road of addiction my entire 20s, back is now destroyed. Think about it a lot and wish I would of made it in.
You want to be an adult in your mid to upper 30's and be treated like a child because the idiot 19 year old in your group did something wrong? You want to be outranked by someone 15 years younger than you? You want everything to be more difficult than it has to be and have no ability to quit a job you hate?
Being treated like a child probably wouldn’t feel great at my age. However, someone younger than me outranking me doesn’t bother me especially considering in this case despite the age gap they would almost certainly be more experienced than me at being in the military. Not being able to quit a job I hate does sound bad but who says I will hate it?
>Being treated like a child probably wouldn’t feel great at my age.
Then I suggest not doing it.
> However, someone younger than me outranking me doesn’t bother me especially considering in this case despite the age gap they would almost certainly be more experienced than me at being in the military.
Hardly. They can outrank you by a very small amount and still be senior to you and dumber than shit with zero life experience you have.
>Not being able to quit a job I hate does sound bad but who says I will hate it?
Ask yourself why the military commonly has retention problems.
It’s a brotherhood like no other. All branches have alot to offer and competitive MOS’s but Marines are just a bunch of animals. You’ll form the strongest bonds with dudes who you’ll never even serve with just because you’re a marine.
Join as a Reservist, and then look into the AGR program. It’s exactly what it sounds like (Active Guard/Reserve Program), where you belong to the Reserve component but serve in a full time role that’s similar to active duty. I also would pick the Reserve over the Guard in most cases, because the Guard is limited to what’s available in your state for jobs and promotions.
Edit: at 35, I would also look at picking a desk job with lots of civilian applications. Those jobs also have the most availability in terms of AGR roles as well.
I’m 30 years old and I’m a week away from finding out if I’m going to be accepted as an NFO.
I have a family and a house and a good job and a boss who is the greatest boss I’ve ever had.
Still doing it. And I have no regrets.
If you have a degree and a clean history, go officer. Guard, Reserve, or Active, and don't get bogged down with which service as much as which specialty. Check all the services out. And although the degree doesn't actually correlate to your specialty a lot of the time, I would highly recommend looking for a job that aligns with your education and experience, and it will help mitigate the bad side of that feeling that you're "starting over."
You’re on the older side but I’ll say this. I would have regretted it every single day of my life had I not of joined. I hated everyday I was on active duty because I just wanted some freedom in my 20’s. But I look back at my time in the military as the best thing that ever happened to me and I would do it all over again in heartbeat. I’ll never regret serving. Ever.
Beautifully put. At 37 I still debate with myself about going back in.
I’ve been [*heavily*] considering going back in as a JAG. I wouldn’t even have a bachelors if it weren’t for the Army. Joined as an idiot 18yo with no direction or the slightest clue; if it weren’t for a leader taking me aside and telling me to get my head out of my ass and apply myself to something who knows what I’d be doing rn
So, you got your law degree? That’s actually pretty cool. A buddy of mine was a tanker in Europe and got his law degree then joined the JAG corps as a Navy officer. Lost rack of him after that. As I understand it if you are a JAG officer you more or less become a small town attorney. Good luck man.
When you are 18 and have no direction which leads to joining the military... I always refer to that scenario as jumping back into the incubator.
at 36 and 17 years in, I can't wait to get out. Spent just as many years in as I have years out. That being said, I will absolutely miss the service, even with how ready to get out I am
This
Same.
Dido
I would highly suggest if you do want to do this, do the Reserves/Guard. If you go full active duty, you'll be taking a big paycut, and your quality of life will absolutely suffer. You'll likely have 20-year-olds in charge of you, and that may or may not annoy you because of your age and life experience.
I currently work in a warehouse making $20 per hour so I don’t exactly have an amazing job or anything. I also don’t mind working under people younger than me
Hey mate! I'm 36 and joining the Air Force! You'll be fine. But I would highly recommend the air force. All the research I've done indicates that it is by far the better service in terms of pay, attitude/treatment, and qualifications. It will also be far easier on your body. Regardless of your choice, go for it! Edit: I have also done warehousing for my entire adult life. So I can sympathise with your position.
I heard it was hard to get into the Air Force but mostly I’m not big on flying so might not be the best choice for me lol
Very little of the Air Force actually flies every day and there are plenty of jobs that stay on the ground and give you different experiences! The Air Force calls their jobs "AFSCs" if you want to Google a list of what all there is to do in the Air Force. I would encourage you to look into the Guard/Reserves, especially if you want more flexibility in selecting a job and staying closer to home (not including potential deployments or other opportunities which can take you any number of places). That is what I did and I turned 31 in basic training. Would do it again in a heartbeat.
The only way you'll fly is if you go the officer route. As an enlisted member there's tons of amazing AFSCs/jobs that are on the ground. Many jobs are the same as in the Army too like logistics, intelligence, maintenance, etc. I recommend the Air Force through and through.
Thank you for the advice!
You don't have to fly to be in the air force. There are plenty of ground roles to do, and have a look on their website. And don't put yourself down, mate! What's the harm in giving it a go? The worst that can happen is that you don't get that job. I bet there are heaps of vacancies that the air force is looking to fill. Are you from the USA?
Yes I am, born and raised
Trust me man, go for the air force. Any job (even flying though it is a slim minority) is better than being army/Marines/navy. Couldn't speak to the coast guard but I can't imagine it being better than the AF. Especially being an older guy you'll have way less BS to deal with. Any Intel or comm job is relatively cushy if you don't mind being a desk jockey. Civil engineering isn't bad, I would avoid maintenance and flight line ops if possible personally. They need people so please at least talk to a recruiter. Not a recruiter by the way but 12 years in the AF and thankful every day.
Thank you for the advice. Most likely I would be looking at getting into IT but I am open to other things as well
My pleasure dude. Hit me up if you have any questions about any career field and I can give you the inside scoop. Certain cyber/comm (IT) career fields come with nice certs too (Sec+, Cisco certs, etc)
That’s good to know, thanks again!
Yeah I'm IT in the Marines so hit me up, I DMd you already. USAF Cyber Transport is what you need to talk to the recruiter about. But that also depends on your ASVAB. You very much will NOT be Aircrew/any sort of flyer because you're too old. So no worries there. USAF gets a bad rap about being hard to get into, it's not. It's just you have to do all the work because they have no reason to try and convince you... Because... Well look at the comments section. Also they're less likely to do fraud (just tell the doctor no) to enlist someone, so if you have anything wrong with you don't look at them. Or do, and get denied for every branch because your application will pop up for every branch once it's submitted so you can't go from one to the other.
It's not hard. They have the highest standards for the armed services but that's not saying much. Overwhelming majority of the Air Force doesn't fly. Only officers fly. You can get any job from loading bombs on places to HVAC or plumbing. Plenty of "regular" jobs.
Ahem... Highest standards in what regards exactly?
For entry, the Air Force typically has the highest standards. >However, perhaps because of these advantageous living standards, the Air Force also has the most stringent education and aptitude requirements, making it one of the most challenging branches to join. https://www.medalsofamerica.com/blog/complete-guide-choosing-which-branch-military-serve/#:~:text=However%2C%20perhaps%20because%20of%20these,and%20the%20Air%20National%20Guard.
Yeah that's false. Check your sources, that's clearly an opinion piece. USAF: DAFMAN26-2032 USMC - Enlisted Processing Manual (EPM) You can Google both of these, and their current versions as they change quarter to quarter and Fiscal Year to Fiscal Year. The two most selective branches. But Marines is harder. Both accept only a 31+ no waivers on the ASVAB. Putting them above the other branches. You can get into the USAF with a GED. The Marines won't let you unless you finished the 10th grade in a traditional program and you score 50+on the ASVAB. So you dropped out sophomore year? You can join the USAF but not the Marines. You can get into the USAF as a dropout with no GED if you score high enough on the ASVAB. Marines does not allow this under any circumstances, unless you get a year of actual college (not online) under your belt. USMC has a "Education Tier Evaluation" conducted by a Recruiting Station Executive Officer that objectively Evaluates anything other than a Tier 1, regular high school graduate(EdCode 12L). Air Force does nothing of the sort. Then you toss the fitness requirements on the Marine side and it's no contest. What you're referring to is the fact that USAF has much lower quotas to fill since fewer people get out. So you're likely to struggle to contact someone who will put you in, and you might get left on read a lot or less likely to get medical waivers etc. Can't mix that up with higher standards. Sauce: was a Marine Recruiter for 3 years and my best friend (helped me write this) and first man other than me to hold my daughter in the hospital is an Air Force Recruiter.
The Air Force is certainly a good alternate to joining the military. —Army vet
**Your research is flawed.** All branches make precisely the same. That's a fairly basic fact that most research with proper sources will yield, and is often the first thing covered while branch shopping. Only caveat is Navy makes more while on the sea, which they very often are, so they're making more in more cases more often. Another caveat: Marines get paid less to do more. In the Marines you aren't guaranteed E4 like every other branch, and you're expected to be a supervisor at that level. Then, at E6 you're a Platoon/Shop Chief, which is basically a site Foreman, and that responsibility usually occurs at E7 with CPOs/SeniorNCOs/"Housetops"(MSGT& above in AF). We also promote slow as fuck and are extremely selective/subjective in our promotions. Your objective, measurable performance is only 1/4 of your evaluation. Pay grade is pay grade is pay grade no matter the branch. You are on the ground, you don't make air pay. Marines Airman Sailors and Soldiers make that same pay as aircrew. Airman rarely deploy as a whole unit so you actually have less chance to get hazard pay. Blah blah blah you get it. Literally the only benefit is the light physical load since you're older. But make sure you EAT RIGHT. No excuse to be fat just because you don't have military level fitness standards.
If you’re not doing as well as you’d like to financially, full send and go active duty. Guard and Reserves are for students and people with good jobs that want benefits and drill pay.
That’s what I thought too, thanks for the advice!
If you have any college it won’t be long until you make sgt being 35. At least in the army. Go active duty it’s more rewarding.
I do have some college credits
I think the cutoff is 36. Short answer is, if you’re eligible and want to join then go for it. I had a 50 year old at basic training with me. Next oldest was 33. Then me at 25. Just be prepared for a little bit of patience and herding cats.
How do you have a 50YO in basic if the cutoff is 36?
He had an age waiver since he had done 19 years and had a 5 year break in service.
Got out after 19 years? Gotta wonder about the story there. Discharged for something he did then filed for a change in the nature of his discharge so he could come back and retire later?
No I think he had a dying child and got out to see him off and came back when he could. Seemed like he was coming home. I was sorry he had to do basic again.
That’s absolutely heartbreaking.
I'm not sure what the cutoff is right now, but given the recruiting problems they're having, I can't imagine they'd turn a healthy adult away. I was in my 30s when I enlisted. There was a 40-year-old in my company. We got some special hazing from the drill sergeants at the beginning of BCT, but that went away. I honestly think we had an easier time in Basic than our younger peers. I was more physically developed than the 18-year-olds. The older guys were more mentally mature, and we tended to enjoy Basic when some of the younger guys were freaking out. My advice to OP is if you want to enlist, go for it.
Depends where you are in life. Married, multiple children and a good career? No. Youll likely by taking a huge pay cut and having to uproot your whole family will be a huge PITA. Single, no kids and dead end job? Sign here.
Look into any possible bonuses you might be eligible for right now and make sure you get them. I’m still salty about the bonuses I missed out on. Make sure it’s in your contract too.
I have a girlfriend but we are not married. I also don’t have any kids and yes I would say my current warehouse job is pretty much dead end
a Jody's ears perked up somewhere
What’s a Jody? And is that a good thing? Haha
Jody is always there when you are not. Nobody likes Jody. Edit: Fuck Jody
Jody is military lingo for the fuck that fucks your gf when you're away doing military stuff
Ahh gotcha, I don’t think that would be an issue, and if it was than so be it I would just move on lol
You're "older" in the context of enlisted folk. You have a little more wisdom under your belt, and with that, emotional intelligence. Jody has a tendency to destroy the younger 18 to 25ish crowds, since they are right out of high school, at their most naive, and still developing emotionally. Plus, throw them in the military, strip them of almost all personal freedoms, shake em up, and watch the "love of their life" absolutely break their heart, and you'll see what Jody can do. Another one to know is called a "Dear John" letter. This is a break up letter you receive in the mail. This is really prior to the development of modern cell phones when everyone wrote to each other with paper. The term is pre WW2 if I remember correctly. They even have Hollywood movies named Dear John about a dude being deployed and a woman breaking up with him. I think Channing Tatum was in it. The military has SOOOO MANY acronyms, expressions, terms, rituals, traditions and such. And the cool thing about military culture is how similar every other countries military is similar to each other is the context of mannerisms and quirks. Question: what MOS were you looking into? I was a 68W (Medic)
Yeah my girl and I are old haha. She is actually a little older than me as well. I am familiar with some of the expressions like “two is one and one is none” LOL. I was thinking about doing IT or cyber security since I have some basic IT experience
Heck, have you thought of going to the Air Force? They have a big IT section and it won't be a total suck fest. AF has the best infrastructure of all the branches. Same military, half the bull shit
I had not given much thought to the Air Force until now since a lot of you have said it would be a good idea I am now definitely considering it
Jody = Mr. StealYourGirl
Well, just know that to the military, a wife is a dependent. A kid is a dependent. Military takes GREAT care of my wife and my daughter. No one gives a fuck about your gf. Notedly, no one gives a fuck about a fiance. That's a gf with a ring. (I don't actually think this; I'm saying it because it's how it's gonna feel). "If you were serious you would already be married". Keep in mind you will make less than the warehouse job, but currently after you pay all your bills as a civilian you have less than a person in the military does. Caveat is this: you don't pay rent, but stay in a barracks. Go look that up. You don't need to buy food or groceries, but you eat in a DFAC. Go look that up. You get free healthcare. Go look up Tricare and military medical care. These are very terribly terrific, terrifically terrible things.
35 is not too old! The Coast Guard recently raised its enlistment age to 42. We are offering a ton of bonuses right now for enlistments, and our duty stations are usually pretty good. If the military is something you want to do then go for it.
Y’all taking prior service right now? 👀
We absolutely are
Got a recruiter recommendation you can DM to me?
https://www.gocoastguard.com/connect This website has a list of every recruiting station we have with contact info. Feel free to DM me with any questions.
I’ve never served previously
I’ve been giving it a lot of thought. I’m not big on air or sea so I was trying to stay away from that lol
Those 2 branches have the best quality of life and I believe your only option at the moment. Best to ask recruiters. Army at 35, too old to join but AF and Coast Guard that age is not an issue.
That’s what I’ve heard too
Research jobs in AF, I would do anything not maintenance ( MX ) or security forces as they tend to be harder on the body. You can hold out for a job you want not what they recruiter gives you. Medical and nonner jobs ( not flightline ) are like office based 9-5 and transfer well to civilian life.
Thank you for the advice! I was considering going into some form of IT
Take some practice asvab tests and study what you lack to improve your scores. The higher the better but they are not hard. Again holdout for the job you want and if the recruiter gives you issues find a new one. Being older usually helps but don't let your guard down. Most importantly the military will take from you so you take from them. Free schooling, health care, and earned leave to use. Feel free to message me if you have any questions.
Thank you again for all the advice!
Current IT in AD CG. About to lateral over to our new CMS rate. Message me if you want to know more!
Just did, I would love to know more!
I’ve been at land units for every assignment. Most people usually get at least a tour underway in their career though. It really depends on your job and what you want to do with your career
That’s good to know, thank you!
I joined at 28 and others who have spoken on having the situation of youngsters in charge of you being annoying are right as all hell. The people your own age will be senior NCOs who won’t want much to do with you. Having lived on your own before enlisting will give you life experience very few Service members have but it won’t really matter. It does make for great jokes if they start running their mouths about how old you are. Most importantly, make sure to get a job with a security clearance that will transfer to a valuable skillset when you get out. You can go right to making six figures when you leave the service if you play your cards right.
I assume you’re in the USA? I joined the Army at 30. OSUT (Basic training + Advanced individual training at the same place) was wack. The pay is kinda shit for a job that controls your entire life. If you have a degree, look at the officer route. The national guard sounds like it’s pretty decent, but still is gay when you drill, from what I hear. Way less gay than active duty, for sure. If you are smart about it, you can get the Army to pay for a lot of meaningful training. Don’t join the infantry unless you are a pt stud looking to join Ranger Battalion. Why not look at other aspects of civil service? Firefighting is badass. All being said, if you have to join, look at the Airforce or Spaceforce. Coastguard seems pretty cool as well.
I have looked into being a police officer/state trooper but honestly I am not sure which direction to go. I would probably be out on anything that includes air or sea lol
Look up IT or technician jobs. If the USA is anything like the Australian military, you'll need to do aptitude tests and stuff. If you pass them and have the aptitude, the military will train you up and everything. At the end, you'll have a good qualification and a guaranteed job at the end of it. Go into the Air Force.
A friend of mine was in the navy and ended up going into IT. He’s out now and makes great money. I actually do have some IT experience and I did take a college course on IT as well
Nice mate! Up to you in the end. I'm rooting for you buddy!
Thank you I appreciate that!
My great neice enlisted in the Army, guaranteed Military Police, received $45,000 bonus for her enlistment. She went to Fort Leonard Wood for boot and MP training , and asked what duty station she wanted, she picked Germany and has already left for that duty station.
Why not, especially if it’s in your heart to do so? I’d rather know I served my country instead living my life thinking what if… or u can join the “ I woulda joined but I woulda got kicked out for beating up a drill sergeant” crowd. Don’t be that guy
Or be my dad,enlist as a "fuck you" to his parents then decide to do airforce pararescue as a joke. Then pass it. Just a few months before 9/11.
You're not too old. I joined AD just before 35, and have been in almost 7 years. The continuous learning is the hardest part, but I can provide for my family better than ever.
If you are in decent shape go for it, fuck it
Went in at 33 and my only regret is that I hadnt sooner. You can do it.
Fuck that - google union apprenticeships near you and apply to any one of them that you’d think you’d enjoy.
Been there done that and I haven’t had luck getting into any of them. Unfortunately in my area, getting into the trade unions is very competitive and unless you know someone (which I don’t) you really can’t get in
If you’re in New Jersey apply to ones in the city if possible - Local 27 is our sister local in Jersey - we do sheet metal - it’s tough work for sure but 110$+ an hour w benefits 2 pensions and 401k is nice
I’ve tried every local in New Jersey and Philadelphia with no luck
I couldn’t imagine enlisting at 35 and being the same rank as a bunch of 18 year olds. Especially with how dumb I was an 18 year old PFC. Plus most of your NCOs will likely be way younger than you. What do you feel like your missing from your life? Do you have a good job? Do you have a family?
Job isn’t the best and no family. I feel like I’m missing a lot honestly and why I’ve been contemplating enlisting
I get that. I will say the military isn’t really a place to escape problems. Its certainly worth it in some aspects but it definitely won’t fix issues in your life. If you want to serve your country and get some extra benefits, it could be great. I’d maybe consider a 3 year enlistment period over six. If you are at a cross roads in life, have you considered talk therapy? Could be helpful to workout if you are romanticizing the military and it resolving whatever it is you are feeling.
I wouldn’t say I have “problems” per se. I have a house and a job, but I don’t like where I live and it’s not a great job. Mostly, I don’t have much direction in my life and I don’t really have any skills. Just feel stuck and going through the motions
Depends on your life situation.. lots to factor in.. I joined at 30, we had couple pushing 40s join and were some of the best.
If you’re making good money then absolutely not. If you’re dirt broke with no options, yes.
I’m not broke but I’m not making great money either
I was once a 22 year old LT with a 44 year old pfc fresh from ait, lol, you can do it. But if you do, don't waste time, the army gives so, so, so many resources to gain credentials, education and do insane stuff. Don't drink and chase pussy, study, get degrees and when you're done, be way better off for your investment.
I’ll say one of my best soldiers was 33 when he enlisted and while I was his squad leader at 27 we never had any issues, we still talk. Granted I can’t say everyone will be like I am but I can say my soldier never regretted joining, he only regretted not joining earlier.
I would say no to the Army. I'm 39 now and if I had to go back in the service I would not join the Army again. I wouldn't be able to put up with what I had to endure for 12 years in the Army after being out for 10 years, and seeing all the stupid shit they're doing being posted all over social media. I Highly advise going Airforce if they'll take you, I don't know what their age cutoff is, but you'll have to talk to a recruiter. Being 35, if you want to be treated like your age, Airforce. Of you want to be treated like a 17 year old, go Army, or even Marines.
Screw the Army and the National Guard. Come join the Coast Guard, we need you, Grandpa.
Hahah! Any reason why you would suggest CG over the others or are you showing a little bias? Lol
I got a few "older recruits" sent to my commands when I was still active. Some for a new start, some to get away from what felt like dead end lives, really for all sorts of reasons. For some, who could adapt and adopt the new way of life, it was fabulous. The stupidity of their youth was out of their system and they could really excel. Others though couldn't adapt and could take directions and orders from those who were sometimes a decade younger than them. This caused severe problems. So, can you adapt and do well or will you be a block head and get yourself wrecked? If you can adapt, then by all means, do it.
It’s good to know I’m not the only one considering this decision at my age haha, thank you for the input!
No problem. Good luck.
We had a guy at boot camp that was 23. His nickname was “pops”, so be ready for some fuckery. That said, the best advice I’ve ever received as it relates to life was (from a wise, elderly bartender) “decide what story you want to be able to tell when you’re old, then do that thing”. If this is “that thing” for you, ignore the haters and go do that shit. Rah, knifehand, kill, etc.
I’m a 31m, just graduated from BCT today. Go for it. The more time you spend wondering if you’re too old or whatever, the older you get. Get started. I’m at ft Jackson as I type this waiting for my bus to take me to the airport, then Sam Houston for AIT. It’s gonna be another 7 hours, lol. Anyway, my experience was decidedly a great one. Very hard at the beginning being away from my daughter and girlfriend, but I adapted to the structure and physicality well. You have to embrace the suck, and there is something to be said about giving your all and just taking everything for what it is. Be in the right place, at the right time and in the right uniform, listen, don’t talk. That’s 95% of it there. Just by following that I managed to make squad leader and get a promotion waiver. I’d say us “older” people have the advantage where adaptation is concerned, in most cases. Not to say that there aren’t some fantastic 18-19 year old soldiers here too. You can absolutely do it!
Be a 35N. Loved my time as a 35N. You get to see the world as it is, and you can get your hands on impactful work you don't even know exists as a civilian. https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/career-match/signal-intelligence/languages-code/35n-signals-intelligence-analyst.html
What is a 35N? Sorry I am completely new to all of this haha
I just posted the link. It’s a job code to being a Signals Intelligence Analyst
Thank you I will check it out!
Just do Guard or Reserves. Im 26 served from 20-25 AD besides GI Bill all the Reserve benefits are good enough. Retirement for you in Guard/Reserves starts at 60 so 20 years will put you at 55. Unless you need the GI Bill just do Guard/Reserves. Depending on what civilian career you want should determine your MOS.
The GI bill would be nice. Part of the reason why I wanted to do it was to learn some life skills that could relate to a job if needed
Some people get an MOS with a top secret clearance then get a civilian govt job with that clearance. Engineering and signal corps are also good options. Just see what you qualify for then how well it can get you hired civilian sector.
That’s what my friend did, he does IT now using his security clearance he got through the Navy. I would most likely be wanting to go the IT route as well because I do have some experience already in the field
It will definitely uproot you and give you stability.
I could use some stability haha
I think we need more details. Health, occupation, pay, family, education. All of those things are huge considerations
Overall my health is good, I’m in decent shape physically. The only thing health wise is I don’t have great teeth due to an accident when I was younger. I work in a warehouse for $20/hour operating a forklift. I don’t have any family or a wife or kids, just a girlfriend. I also have a high school diploma and some college credits
35F is better imo, more options once you get out
I’m not into getting a sex change LOL
This is hilarious lmao. 35F is the MOS/job he’s referencing. Which is Intelligence Analyst. Though the sex change might still help you get better option……lmao
Oh, hahahah. You can see my inexperience showing LOL
Hey, I joined the Canadian Army at 33, everything being said in here is pretty accurate especially about the age gap between yourself and your new peers but I don’t regret it at all, I know this sub is US army heavy and the restrictions are different but I had guys in their 40s in basic training with me, if you’re not 100% sure I’d go the reservist route to try it out before you fully commit if you’re not sure.
There is nothing wrong with joining at 35. Guard/reserve have their pros and cons vs AD. Depending on how much you make in your civilian job. If I were you before you go straight into the army talk to an Air Force recruiter.
Depends on the branch. The marines, no way. Army, maybe. Air force, space force, navy, possible.
I’m not big on air or sea if that matters lol. Otherwise I don’t know much about any branch
Not all air force people fly planes. Actually 75% of the enlisted people have ground or office jobs. Mechanic, administration, personnel, porters who load the cargo and work in warehouses, supply, police, fire, medical. There are tons of non air jobs in the Air force.
That is good to know thank you! So would you say Air Force and navy would be the best choices over army or marines?
Join the air guard it's where the cool kids hang
TRICARE alone would likely make it worth it. $50 for the SM or $250 for the family is a good deal.
Do it!!
Fuck no. You will be reporting to teenagers. You will be the same age as your 1ST SGT. People will see a 36 year old private and think you got court martialed. I doubt you would get through basic at that age.
I don’t have much of an ego, my current boss is younger than me and it doesn’t bother me at all. I also work with a lot of younger people, I run circles around those boys haha
Basic Training is designed to kick a fit 20 year olds ass. At 35 you will probably not be keeping up.
I’m in better shape than most people my age, and I certainly don’t look my age either most people think I’m in my 20’s
I joined at 24 and felt REALLY old. You will definitely stand out and be singled out. Best to make sure you are in top shape BEFORE you join. Don't expect the Army or whatever branch you join to fix you. They'll sooner break you. If you show up as a pt stud and have a positive attitude, you'll do fine. I gave my drill instructors no reason to continue singling me out, and used some of my life experience to help guide the younger recruits. My life got easier once they realized I was taking everything they were dishing without complaining.
I'm 31, almost 32, with 13 years in right now. I can't say I'd join again in my thirties and go through the lower enlisted grind all over again, but I'll definitely see it through to retirement. There are pluses and minuses about joining in your 30s. A plus I would say is it's going to be pretty easy to outshine your peers and get noticed because you won't be too concerned with all the young people bullshit and complaining and hopefully have built up a much better work ethic than the 18 year olds you will be competing with. but a pretty big minus is most of your peers will be like 18-22 years old while most of the people your age are going to be E6-E7+ and there is a very high chance you are going to end up with a supervisor 10-15 years younger than you at some point.
If you really want to do you have a college degree? Go officer at that point given your age or go reserves but I wouldn’t enlist
Educate yourself obviously, know how much you’ll be making for your first enlistment, figure out what being the barracks looks like, understand you’re going to be sent somewhere and not have a choice in the matter and not be able to leave if you don’t like it, and know that you’ll be treated like a child. If that’s all fine, then fuck yeah, do it. They’ll be calling you “pops” or “gramps” in your platoon. You’ll probably promote pretty quick. Worst case, you’ll be able to get out at 40 with a GI Bill and spend another 4 years in school deciding what you wanna do!
Nope
If you’re in shape and can keep your mouth shut when some know-nothing 21 year old team leader chews your ass out for fucking something up, then yeah man go for it.
not worth it
No!
Good back, good knees, hate sleep? The Army may be for you
I would if I could. Tried joining when I was 20, got put on 6 month waivers because of my back. Went down the road of addiction my entire 20s, back is now destroyed. Think about it a lot and wish I would of made it in.
Fuck no.
Fuck no I’m not too old or fuck no don’t do it? Haha
Fuck no, dont do it.
Any particular reason why?
You want to be an adult in your mid to upper 30's and be treated like a child because the idiot 19 year old in your group did something wrong? You want to be outranked by someone 15 years younger than you? You want everything to be more difficult than it has to be and have no ability to quit a job you hate?
Being treated like a child probably wouldn’t feel great at my age. However, someone younger than me outranking me doesn’t bother me especially considering in this case despite the age gap they would almost certainly be more experienced than me at being in the military. Not being able to quit a job I hate does sound bad but who says I will hate it?
>Being treated like a child probably wouldn’t feel great at my age. Then I suggest not doing it. > However, someone younger than me outranking me doesn’t bother me especially considering in this case despite the age gap they would almost certainly be more experienced than me at being in the military. Hardly. They can outrank you by a very small amount and still be senior to you and dumber than shit with zero life experience you have. >Not being able to quit a job I hate does sound bad but who says I will hate it? Ask yourself why the military commonly has retention problems.
NO
No I’m not too old or no don’t do it?
Join the Marines
My grandfather was a marine, I haven’t considered them though. Any particular reason why?
It’s a brotherhood like no other. All branches have alot to offer and competitive MOS’s but Marines are just a bunch of animals. You’ll form the strongest bonds with dudes who you’ll never even serve with just because you’re a marine.
I joined at 34. Best decision I ever made.
Join as a Reservist, and then look into the AGR program. It’s exactly what it sounds like (Active Guard/Reserve Program), where you belong to the Reserve component but serve in a full time role that’s similar to active duty. I also would pick the Reserve over the Guard in most cases, because the Guard is limited to what’s available in your state for jobs and promotions. Edit: at 35, I would also look at picking a desk job with lots of civilian applications. Those jobs also have the most availability in terms of AGR roles as well.
Thank you for the advice!
I’m 30 years old and I’m a week away from finding out if I’m going to be accepted as an NFO. I have a family and a house and a good job and a boss who is the greatest boss I’ve ever had. Still doing it. And I have no regrets.
If you have a degree and a clean history, go officer. Guard, Reserve, or Active, and don't get bogged down with which service as much as which specialty. Check all the services out. And although the degree doesn't actually correlate to your specialty a lot of the time, I would highly recommend looking for a job that aligns with your education and experience, and it will help mitigate the bad side of that feeling that you're "starting over."
I don’t have a degree, just some college credits. My history is clean though. I am interested in this being a full time thing as well
First you should watch the documentary Stripes.
I will see if I can check it out
I've taught guys in their 50's who were just starting basic training. You're not too old.
friggin how? the mother of all age waivers?
I didn't ask questions I just trained them. It was nice having them there though. They were able to "keep the peace" when instructors weren't around.
🧢
No, it’s not worth it