Am I too old?

[army]

Am I too old?





Posted by C. R. from Stratford Ontario Canada on February 05, 2000 at 12:57:00:



Im 26. Is this considered "too old" to join the infantry reserves? I don‘t want to join then find out that Im the oldest guy in QL2. Is there a good age range that signs up or are people primarily younger?

Cheers,
Chris R.

 

[army]

Re: Am I too old?





Posted by cdchipmunk from Canada on February 05, 2000 at 17:16:23:


In Reply to: Am I too old? posted by C. R. on February 05, 2000 at 12:57:00:



I don‘t think you are too old. The oldest people to join are in their 50‘s, they are the exception. With age comes maturity and a sense of humour. You might find you are one of the older ones in your QL2 but that will depend on the time of year it runs.

Your physical and mental conditioning are most important as are your expectations and sense of commitment. Why not drop by a few parade nights, speak with the staff, other new recruits, as well as the recruiters. Make your choice an informed one and you will surely learn you have a lot to contribute and will receive many fold in return.

 

[army]

Re: Am I too old?





Posted by C. R. from Canada on February 07, 2000 at 13:26:46:


In Reply to: Re: Am I too old? posted by cdchipmunk on February 05, 2000 at 17:16:23:



Thanks for the info, I think I will stop by on a parade night and ask some questions.

Cheers
C. R.

 

[army]

Re: Am I too old?





Posted by Mark Bossi M.A. Bossi, CD from Toronto Ontario Canada on February 07, 2000 at 17:00:52:


In Reply to: Re: Am I too old? posted by C. R. on February 07, 2000 at 13:26:46:



Yes, you definitely should take the time to speak with a recruiter - you could pose some questions your parents might ask, as well as clear up any doubts you might have.

One argument for joining the reserve is the analogy of "test-driving" a car - similarly, you could "test drive" a military career via the reserve.

The training, discipline and camaradery experienced in the Canadian Army is unique - there‘s nothing else like it, and most of us have fond memories however there‘s always a few who don‘t - that‘s life.

Also, the majority of the Canadian Army and our soldiers are actually good people some would even say the best!! - wouldn‘t you agree it‘s terrible when "a few bad apples" spoil the reputation of a larger population? Isn‘t it awful when people discriminate based on ignorance? Unfortunately, the Army‘s skin colour is "green" and not on any politically correct list of protected minorities not enough people care to speak up against anti-Army discrimination.

Another argument would be that you‘re not getting any younger - the oldest person I ever enrolled was 47 but I have to admit he finished first on his course!

On one hand, children should respect their elders. However, parents must eventually respect their children, and respect their decisions.

The Canadian Army is still a proud institution, comprised of many proud regiments. Hopefully, one day, your parents will be able to be proud of your choice. Mine were, and still are almost 23 years later.

Good luck.
Dileas Gu Brath!