Introduction and requesting opinions

[JAW2013]

Hey guys,

I am new to the forum, but I have read hundreds of threads and researched my question before asking. Although I have found this topic addressed on other forums, it would be great to get some perspective from the men that share information here.

I am 32 years old and I am going to enlist in the Army. I am not prior service. I have been talking with a recruiter about going 35m/option 40 or 11b/option 40. I was hoping to hear some candid thoughts from y'all about enlisting and going through RASP at an older age. If you don't mind sharing, I'd be really interested in hearing about any success stories of older guys going through that you've witnessed personally. I'd also be grateful if you could share examples of situations where you witnessed guys in their 30's get to RASP and washout early. I know there is a very high attrition rate, but I wonder if there is an opinion as to whether older guys typically washout due to injury, lack of strength, or just because civilian life was cozy and warm and they don't like being cold, wet and tired.

I'm certainly not the toughest sum bitch out there, but like anyone else who has made the decision to go, I don't plan on failing. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read and consider my questions.

 

[Muppet]

I am not a Ranger but I was a Paratrooper and served with many good Rangers, both tabbed and scrolled at one time. That being said, why would you put out there the fact of "washing out". If you want it that bad, you WILL not wash out. You will succeed, if it takes everything you have in you. I do know of many men that had bad injuries and illnesses that worked through it and graduated what ever selection program there was. So, take my comment as you will but if you want it, take it bro. But, lets say you do (for some reason). Correct me if I am wrong brothers and sisters on the board, you are now at the mercy of the needs of the Army.

F.M.

 

[JAW2013]

Damn good point, F.M. Thanks for the info and direction.

 

[Squidward]

Had a guy in my SFQC class that was 42 when he graduated. He's on a scuba team now. You have to answer two questions for yourself and by yourself. Do I meet the physical requirements to attend RASP? Do I want to be a part of Ranger Regiment? If you answer both of those truthfully and wholeheartedly in the affirmative, it is as it always has been, entirely up to you.

 

[Ranger Psych]

Don't fucking quit. Cadre don't care how old you are, only that you meet then exceed the standards. If you can look at what's out there and do that... and not quit?

You'll be fine.

Otherwise, you'll be going worldwide and no violins will play for your lack of fortitude.

 

[JAW2013]

Squidward and Ranger Psych -- I could not have asked for more insightful and motivating responses to my post. Thank you both taking the time to share your thoughts and experiences.