Is 21 too old to join the British Army?

matt mcd

Hi, i too would like to congratulate you on your decision to serve your country. I don't think that 21 is too old at all, i echo others comments that say that you are probably the perfect age, you are more mature and are more likely to see the rationale behind all the shouting and repetition of seemingly pointless tasks.

I am now 27 and have applied to join Her Majesties Armed Forces, i know too that some people will feel that that is too old, but the upper age limit is now 33. I feel that i am prepared mentally for whats ahead, well as prepared as i can be having never done anything like this before! I have worked damn hard over the last 2+ years to get myself in shape and now feel that i am more than ready for the hard work ahead.

I am aware that the British armed forces are having a retention crisis, failing to hold on to soldiers beyond their minimum service. I don't feel that this is a failing of the MOD/Gov't, there will always be down trodden people in the world and civilisations that can't defend themselves from oppressive dictators, so we as a [somewhat] civilised and advanced culture have a responsibility to protect those people and nurture them into a more prosperous, freer future.

I think that part of the burden lies on the shoulders of 'some' of those young men that leave at the first available opportunity, citing that it 'wasn't what they expected' when they signed up! What did they expect, army life isn't all holidays in the sun and being feared by every civilian in the world. It is supposed to be hard work thats why the entry requirements are set as they are. The youth of today are sadly, work shy and poorly lacking in motivation. Not all, just the vast majority.

I wish you luck in whatever you decide, tread boldly.

bails

No, my brother joined when he was about 25

Gamerfiend

I would like to thank you for considering joining; it is noble to serve one's country. That being said 21 is certainly not too old to join. My brother said there was a 35 year old in basic with him. Considering you can have a long military career you can be retired by 50 easily. Best of luck and don't let your age stop you...I think I'm young and I'm 24 ;)

Crazy fo Life

No the army takes you threw a trainning programme were your all treated like equals and together you fight threw it and become the closet friends

Diego P

JOIN THE ARMY. YOU HAVE A RIGHT AGE. DON'T WORRY

enzyme303

No, 21 is not too young to join anyone's army.

Looney

Man your prime beef for the military !

rewster2

I think the latest is 25. But you have the advantage of being a lot wiser and fitter. Good luck

Nancy P

Group Captain Lionel Mandrake

no you will be better off joining up at your age a bit more real world experience.

franja

21 isn't too old to do anything...

Do whatever you want to!

Life is shorter than you can possibly imagine.

Don't be posting here in 2048 saying "I wish I'd..."

jazzy_yazzy_6

Pretty much. The British originally start at 9 or 7. But in Africa and Iran they start as soon as they start to walk.

DarkDreams

No its not to old. But why would you want to join the army? I know alot of people do it to go to school and defend their country. But what are you really going to be fighting for. My opinion Don't sign your life over to someone else. Just my opinion but if you want to may god be with you.

bet bet bet

I reckon you'd be better equipped as you should be stronger, more mature and have more determined.

I also know a lot of people who have joined the army at 21 and I also know a lot of people who left after a few months and joined when they were 18 because they felt it wasn't for them i.e. a don't think age matters much and I think 21 is actually a better if not perfect age to join the army

alyssa a

Dingle-Dongle

You would be 21 if you were to go to Sandhurst to do officer training as you usually have to do a degree first.

My son is joining up and he is only 16. I wanted him to do a degree first but he cant wait. Mad I know

Beastie

Twenty one is not old for joining the military.

So long as you're fit and healthy they'll accept your application subject to checks.

I'd join a different service, myself. Too much chance of getting shot in the Army these days. Much safer in the Navy!

yowuzup

not at all