Joining Navy as an Old Guy

If you join the military in your late 20's or early 30's, this is my perception. Hopefully it helps ease your apprehensions. The perks of joining older.

[@cloudchaser8297]

I'm 86 and applying tomorrow 👍

[@rickwilliams5524]

going with u

[@oldcop18]

I’m just a kid @ 72 and may apply to re-up (went to Navy boot camp in ‘65) just for fun.

[@richardmaisamoa4654]

Follow your heart pei

[@antoinemartinjr.710]

There isn't a waiver in the world

[@johnpantalone6379]

Ok boomer

[@MB-gz1ji]

I joined the Army at 27. I was surprised to see the majority of guys in my class were late 20's early 30's. Our oldest guy was 35.

[@TheBurningShadowBR]

I would not use the term "old" to anyone on their 30s. I'd use "more senior" instead.

[@J_Trask]

@@TheBurningShadowBRit’s a matter of perspective. 30’s is not old. If you’re in your 40’s and take care of yourself, you can still outperform guys in their 20’s.

[@Shantaro25]

I am joining to abandon my old life. Their is no future for me as a plain civilian. Navy career for life!

[@TheBurningShadowBR]

have you joined?

[@Me-eb3wv]

How is it man

[@blackpanthro]

Just turned 32 leaving to basic on june 1st. Im not worried much about youth. Im only concerned about folks not getting my joke references

[@GingerSailor]

+Rough Douglas ha! I feel you on that one lol. that happened a few times to me

[@paulmaher7349]

Randy Burroughs You racist pig!! Blacks , whites, asians, Mexicans , blues, greens , etc. have all contributed to our, OUR!!!!!, country. I hope you continue to have the right to criticize OUR great country for a long long time. It's a shame you don't realize the advantages you have been blessed with through the contributions all men of all races in OUR country. Continue to be a racist pig that you are.

[@yazeed3881]

It’s been 2 years since your comment . How did it go ??

[@guillermosilva5905]

Same boat here sir, 32 almost done with security clearance for the uscg. I

[@patricktalamantes5503]

@@guillermosilva5905 32 ..i thought you had to be way younger for coast guard like isnt there an age limit

[@CaballoLoco6i9]

one great thing on joining older in the navy is being mature. we know what we want and work hard to earn it.

[@GingerSailor]

+Caballo Loco that does make things a heck of a lot easier

[@andrewwheeler6550]

Someone looked down at my joining at 26, haha, I'm the one that owns a house no mortgage and he doesn't! He's the assistant manager and I'm the CEO! Haha.

[@silentxsails4098]

I just turned 24 and a few ppl know that I'm leaving my job to go into the navy, someone over heard my conversation and asked my age and told me that I was a little old and that it was a little late for me to sign up. I just Loled

[@J_Trask]

Not too old whatsoever.

[@lonner98]

I joined January 2002. I was 22 yrs old. I had a guy who was 35 years old in my division. I could see it being a humbling experience and I could also see the advantage in being the old guy.

[@alisterfolson]

I feel ya. I joined in '95 as a 26 year old...got labeled an old guy, but you know what? It was cool...plus all the crazy "young guy shit" was already out of my system before I went in, just saying

[@GingerSailor]

that's kind of how it was for me too.

[@ajf102287]

This made me feel so much better. Thank you for your time and your service.

[@andrewnauth101]

I'm 37 and I'm joining the navy

[@Jtheboss2516]

Glad I came across this video... I'm planning to enlist in January. I am 27 and just have an associates degree. God bless!

[@SeaKingMo]

I'm 28 going in December soooo ready

[@Jtheboss2516]

SonsMJM20 yay please let me know how it was for you. I'm excited.

[@SeaKingMo]

will do, I might even see you in service one day :D

[@Jtheboss2516]

SonsMJM20 That'll be pretty sweet!!!

[@SeaKingMo]

yea but you going air force right? I'm going Navy

[@TheWulvureen98]

I joined at 39.

[@brandonmckittrick2822]

This definitely makes me feel better, im joining into the Navy at the age of 27. I now don't feel old anymore. im going in as an E3. I have a two year college degree.

[@xodll1148]

damn... my main concern enlisting at an older age is nobody's gunna share the same great taste in music as me. 🙄

[@kelkel3883]

So true on the music though.

[@matthewmassengill1509]

DEATHMETAL!!!

[@josefinay.785]

Thanks for this video! I'm 30 and going through the Royal Navy selection process and it's encouraging to hear the perspective of someone who was also a little bit older than the average when they joined ;)

[@wehrmdog3766]

I went to boot camp two days after Turning 19. Best decision I ever made! Fond memories of my Navy days! Thank you for your service and sharing this video!

[@coreycanada7104]

perfect video. i'm 29 trying to join now. thanks!

[@GingerSailor]

+Corey Aguayo you are very welcome and I wish you the best

[@coreycanada7104]

☺☺☺ thanks!

[@reaganapostolus2578]

+Corey Aguayo Good Luck! I feel it's a great thing to have older, more mature people.

[@chamilitary07]

I'm 29 with a bachelor's and I'm gonna enlist in the NAVY. I'm gonna enlist. This is very inspirational for me. Thanks.

[@AndyGarcia-ch1ci]

If u have a degree i hope you went officer.

[@mikloridden8276]

@@AndyGarcia-ch1ci thats too hard man. Besides at least as enlisted he and I can leave and rest for the day, all the SWO are stuck 20 hours a day 😂

[@PrizePirate]

I'm 24 years old and I thought I was going to be too old enlisting. You make me smile man, knowing that there are other like minded people out there who don't take these opportunities for granted. I hope you have as good of an experience as you have! I'm trying my luck with the air force however.

[@GingerSailor]

+PrizePirate all good. The airforce was my second choice. I wish you the best of luck!

[@jaytate5174]

+GingerSailor I'm 25 trying to join the navy i hope its not too late i can't keep a job & i need the discipline & motivation to do so

[@navyjay7355]

I'm 25 and I'm getting into it

[@lohst1672]

Lmao.. 25-27 is height of starting your career. Is someone supposed to be 12 & know anything? Lol 😂

[@leahtolbert4055]

Thanks for the video I'm 29 now trying to join the Navy!

[@d3si3l]

thanks man 29 worried about joining this made me feel better

[@photosoloja]

You are Answer all my questions in my head dude, hopefully once i'm in i can help people just like you're doing.

[@GingerSailor]

Yaad Yute i appreciate it

[@leedelta15]

Thanks for another great video, this makes me feel a lot better haha! I'm currently 31 and trying to enlist. It's a lot more involved than I expected, but still excited to join. Good luck to ya, and keep helping to kick those little snots into shape! :)

[@lightt5209]

Joined the Army at 29. Basic wasn't shit, drill sergeants smoked me hard for a few days for being "old" but when they realized i had my head on straight and they couldnt get under my skin they left me alone generally. Worst part of boot camp is taking orders from rotc kids but hey thats a problem everyone has to face lmao.

[@marksofmanhood]

I will be 41-42 when I re-join the Navy as a chaplain lol! Right near the cut off age but whatever. Great video and insight. -Matt

[@MoonHawk01]

A Life Devoted 😂🤣 yeah hurry up man

[@RemoteWisdom]

Headed to OCS at 35. Just finished MEPS and am waiting for boards. It’s posible folks.

[@justing2231]

Hey thanks for the video! It's nice to hear a firsthand perspective on this. I swore into the Navy 6 years ago after I graduated college, but had an injury that prevented me from shipping. I ended up dropping my contract. I'm 29 now and am thinking about fulfilling that dream I had. I'm also considering to volunteer for subs!

[@sarahsmiles9440]

I am so glad I stumbled upon this! I'm 27, will be 28 in about 2 weeks. I was going to join the Marine corps but the age limit is 29 and I'm realizing now that I'm not likely to be in good enough shape for boot camp in the time I have left. So I'm seriously considering the Navy now and I am SO glad I have a little more time to make that happen!

[@ChefJordan1]

You want to do Marine thinking it’s too late. Become a NavySeal, Army Ranger, Delta etc. I’m thinking of joint the Navy myself and I’m 36.

[@raeneeyoung4732]

I'm so glad I cam across your youtube channel it has helped me tremendously on my journey to enlist . Im 26 almost 27 .. I was nervous at first because I assumed that I would be going in at the bottom of the totem pole but thanks to your video came to find out cause of college credits ill go in as an E3 yay

[@GingerSailor]

+raenee young glad to hear it!

[@raeneeyoung4732]

GingerSailor​ ---- if you could help me along the way it was pretty awesome also

[@RushInNinja]

How's it going for you in there now? I'm a few years older and thinking about it, so it'll be a tad different I guess. Really just trying to get a general consensus from folks who joined up a little older than the average.

[@Joeyblondewolf2]

I'm 33 and thought about joining. People think I'm a lot younger thou

[@walletphonekeys]

U joining?

[@tahj420]

Bro I went through corp school with two dudes in their forties and one in their fifties. I just saw a post by a guy who graduated combat dive school at 40 (probably one of the physically hardest schools in the military).

[@4by108]

Do it!

[@michaelstillalive]

Dude did you join it yet

[@jakec7403]

This one is giving me anxiety. Age 30, considering joining the Air National Guard. No kids, girlfriend but no wife, no house, own a car though -- "where are my 20s?" - anyway. Same shape as always, meet the physical requirements. QUESTIONS: OK, figured out my semi awkward question. I have a few more: 1. Did you have to fight a young kid with the padded sticks? 2. Can I find a battle buddy over 30 to go to basic with me? 3. Does anyone have the numbers on: "how many people join after age 30?" - having trouble finding this. Thanks for the heads up, man.

[@WarPartyFitness]

Jake C did you join?

[@christopherjohnson4276]

No padded stick fighting in the USN lol

[@t.k.1319]

The stick fighting is just the marines

[@DevoWevo27]

Miss those Navy blue uniforms. So nice 🔥 Thanks for your service old buck!

[@missdameenor]

Thanks for the video, I'll be 31 when I ship to BT. People think I'm 18 though, so we'll see how that goes... I'll be going in as an E3.

[@Temuulen3]

How’d that go? I’m also 30, Asian male feeling old with a bachelors from 2013. Don’t want to wait for Officer 6-12 months... is the transition from enlisted to Officer difficult if you go in as enlisted?

[@missdameenor]

Tim B. Basically babysitting in bootcamp. As far as transitioning from enlisted to officer, I’ve heard it both ways. Everyone’s experience is different. So I couldn’t tell you for sure how smooth it will go.

[@Temuulen3]

Aly G I figured. MEPS is full of kids. I’ve decided to go for Army OCS so hopefully that works out. Where are you stationed?

[@NeniMaru]

This video was really helpful thanks. I'm don't regret going now with 27. I wouldn't have survived boot camp 9 years ago xD

[@omarbosquez9900]

and im over here trippin about wanting to join at 20/21

[@hd2face394]

Hey GingerSailor thanks for the vids particularly this vid. Im 29 myself and I leave for the Navy March 14th. This was helpful. I dont look my age either so I needed this advice! Hope I can meet you one day. You da man!!

[@TheBurningShadowBR]

As long as the person is fit and with good health and atitude personally I see no problem with age. Samurais went to wars with 70+ as long as they were still able to fight and use their katanas properly.

[@sweetdreamslovebug1871]

This made me feel better! Im a 29 year old English teacher joining the Air Force.

[@joeynewman8387]

That is not bad. I'm a 35 year old high school counselor. Joining as well!!

[@dennisplatte8800]

You're stupid to join after about 22. I was 20, nearly 21 and was way older than most. Think there were 3 guys 21, and I was next. We had one guy a platoon over that was 26, and stood out like a sore thumb. Don't join after 22, unless you have no life at all. or just love being called Pappy.

[@RoyalDog214]

You're stupid to join college after 18. Unless you like being surrounded by High Schoolers and get called Pappy.

[@directorbeau]

dennis platte dumbass. Some people make the military a career and retire a millionaire at 38 with a pension.

[@chrisredfield8520]

dennis platte Who cares dick !

[@musicgirl999]

I’m 28 and I don’t look it at all! I look at least 18! Lol I’ve been toying with the idea of joining either the Navy or the Air Force. Thank you for sharing this, and for your service as well!

[@lohst1672]

Elizabeth Schiada you don’t look “old” until 45.

[@lohst1672]

You don’t feel “old” until “60” It’s all perception.

[@LolitaStClair]

Hello ginger I went to meps and found out I had flat feet and that was the end for me and I tried to enlist at 33..good luck to all of y'all and I enjoyed your video.

[@mr.n54o86]

Joining the navy as an old man? Your 29 🤣 . Im 40 now that's getting old 🤣.. Great videos man.

[@markc4768]

speaking of old guys in the Navy, when I was a 40+ year old Chief - circa 1989 I had an MM1 on my Damage Control Team who had been a Marine before joining the Navy. To clarify, he had been at the Chosin Reservoir as a 20 year old Lance Corporal when I was two years old. After 4 years in the Marines, he got out (in 1953 as I recall) then joined the Navy on a whim in 71 or 72 as an E3 OSVET when he was about 41 or 42 and went through boot camp. I remember him saying that he got in just a few days before he would have aged out to make 20 years total active service before the cut off.

[@GingerSailor]

I bet he probably had quite the problem with 20 yr olds trying to tell him what to do lol

[@jonnie106]

I joined the Air Force in June. In September of that year I turned 21 and there were guys referring to me as old. I was vexed every time they said it. Some even said it to me after P.T. where I routinely beat them A lifetime and two kids later I've discovered that it wasn't me being old, it was them being 18 (we had a 17 yr old one, too)/ When you're 18, EVERYONE not 18 or 19 is old~ A couple of posts here saying the same thing are right on target. The service branches of DoD don't care how old you are, they care that you can finish the march carrying a bag of rocks, they care that you can handle a weapon and consistently hit targets downrange. They care that you can go from point A to Z via complex paths of funning, jumping, climbing, roping, crawling, swinging. pushing and pulling and finish in a reasonable time. Wrap it all up with caring that you can follow instructions to the letter, and set the best example of doing so for the others with you and those coming behind you. Now if you've joined the military at 39 and after accomplishing all of the above you're cool breezing over to jump school, or Air Force PJ training, get ready to do a whole bunch of things 39 more times than everyone else. just because.

[@Jhizzy04]

Turning 30, have an associates and absolutely nothing going on for me in life lol.. any advice for possible joining the Navy?

[@kellylyons9417]

joshua hawkins you don't look like your 30?

[@Jhizzy04]

lol thx

[@monkmoto1887]

I’m in shape enough to pass the PFA but what I’m worried about is in the navy they won’t work me out enough. I was a high level highschool wrestler and I need a lot of physical activity to improve. My body adapts to what would be a rigorous workout for others really easily

[@juangallardo1582]

You would need to work out in your free time I had to in the army because the pt alone wasn't cutting it

[@GodGunsGills]

Warrant Officer!

[@braveartist8947]

You are just good hearted. It's good to see.

[@GodGunsGills]

1017-1021 mark is funny as hell!!! Great video bro. 2004-2009 retired as GSM2

[@reginaldweasley2401]

Im 34 and seriously considering joining the Navy. Been driving a truck for about 10 years and decided i could use the military to better myself and my career

[@ashleydodson7272]

I really enjoy your videos. I'm currently 29 and in DEP. I leave in November for RTC.

[@GingerSailor]

+Ashley Dodson why thank you! I wish you the best!

[@TheMaxiu333]

i was 27 when i went in as an E-3 hospital corpsman.

[@kellylyons9417]

TheMaxiu333 hey as an hospital coreman what do you need to get on your asvab, did you hold out for that job and how often r u on a ship? Joining and going to hold-out for a medical job but having trouble deciding between the army or navy. Don't want to be on a boat all the time as I want to get some schooling done while I'm in

[@TheMaxiu333]

I got a 74 on my Asvab , I think you need above 60 for HOSPITAL corpsman. I waited 8 months before I went to boot camp due to me having braces . Hospital corpsman barely go on any ships..most work the typical 7 to 4 schedule, Some work overnight . If you are an FMF corpsman you are going to be with a marine battalion most of the time, and will most likely not be stationed at a hospital.

[@kellylyons9417]

TheMaxiu333 By any chance do you know any jobs where I would be working with marines in that same capacity

[@TheMaxiu333]

Kelly Lyons hospital corpsman is the only rate that works with the Marines.

[@zenunderground]

Had a bad time till the age of 25, including shitty home life, rehab and petty jail. Now I'm 35 and all that is a ghost, but I'm just now starting to know what I want from life. Married but without children. I've worked in kitchens forever but want something better. In the last 5 years I have truely come to learn about my grandfather's service and it means alot to me. I've also wanted to learn a new trade or go to school for something. Unfortunately, those first 25 years left me with a debt that renders me ineligible for student aid. I enjoy the military and feel naturally inclined to explore it. I'm wrestling with whether this ship has passed, whether it's a realistic thought track to go down...or if it makes more sense to just get used to doing what I do, and find a way to joy within it..

[@detpistons4l401]

Bro I’ve watched a few videos and they have 37 year olds in the army. I’m sure the navy aswell. Military hasn’t been able to hit their quota on soldiers, I’m sure they’ll take what they can get. Only problem you may have is criminal background, you said it was petty crimes so maybe not though. I’m 20 and am really interested in joining, think I’m gonna wait a few years and try some work as a truck driver tho. See how I like it.

[@diahannnicole]

Great video I'll be re taking my ASVAB on Monday to Join the Navy I'm 29 I'm actually glad I'm joining now at an older age, then joining right out of HS. I'm nervous but really excited

[@offroadpatriot7219]

A bit more inspiring for me... I'll be 21 in September. I'm seeing all my friends around me heading off to the Marines, Navy, Air force, etc... And I'm just not ready to make that commitment yet. Wanting to see where life takes me the next 4-5 years at which point I'd be 25 or so.. If I'm not where I want to be in life within that time, I always thought the Navy would be cool.

[@Leorgo]

Navy has the best camo plus black boots.. I love it. Although other jobs I see a lot of them wear completely different uniforms. Like that ugly all white sailors uniform. Overall, I vetted the Navy and they have nothing that interests me that I can use in the real world. No trucking jobs.. None that ice seen available on their website.

[@offroadpatriot7219]

SALO or The 120 Days of Sodom: I can't eat rice with my hands like this... Then eat Isht! so are you saying you regret joining the navy?

[@Leorgo]

+SmurfStang huh? Lol no, I'm still in research phase. I want to enlist in the air force for vehicle ops,

[@QTJoe]

The Navy now has the same uniforms as the other branches now. :D

[@hd2face394]

SmurfStang Go for it do it now. I wish I would've went in at 21 or at least 23

[@jaygamble8328]

Enjoyed your video! Just like yourself, I am joining the baby at the age of 27. I will sign my contract next week and find out my deployment for boot camp. I plan to do vlogs throughout my navy career as well.

[@soy.ingrid]

Good video! I hope you made it to OTS

[@GodGunsGills]

Great video bro

[@brooke5713]

I'm so glad I found this video.You really put my mind at ease lol. I'm 24 and have been considering joining the military for the past couple years and more recently since I graduated with my degree. After college I got this tremendous urge to have to "know what I'm doing with my life" and was stressing about enlisting because I felt like my time was running up. It's comforting to know you enlisted at 29 and have such positive things to say! I think the military is in my cards, but I'm going to do my best to hold off until I at least know who our next president is haha. Anyway, love the videos. Oh and that so cool you coached track! I used to run back in the day and think that would be such an awesome thing to do. :)

[@GingerSailor]

+Brooke Nebel yeah after competing in track and field in college, coaching was something that kept me around the atmosphere that I loved. It takes a while to work your way up the ladder to better paying jobs but it is fulfilling if you love track and field the way I do. after coaching at the college level for 3 and a half yrs, I was actually a high school teacher for a year and coached high school track. The teaching was okay but it was something I couldn't see myself doing for the rest of my life and I had the crisis you just talked about. My answer was the navy...or at least the navy until I figure it out, but I may just end up going 20, retiring from the navy and going back to coaching lol

[@GingerSailor]

+Brooke Nebel where'd you run at

[@brooke5713]

Haha so true. I'm gonna explore my options a little bit more and see what new ideas come to mind and what doors open up, but if nothing within the next couple years then military will be my next move. Teaching is great, but who knows what you'll discover in the Navy. Best of luck to ya! :)

[@brooke5713]

And I had most of my good track and cross country experiences in high school, but I did a year at the University of North Florida. It was good experience, but nothing like what I was used to in high school. Wish I would've stuck with it longer though.

[@chriskeller3705]

I’m 26, have a college degree, work in the mortgage industry, and I just feel like I am not contributing all I can to society. I want to serve my country in some way, but the commitment is immense, even for reserves. I’m really torn between my career and reserve service.

[@DeadKingsmen]

Big, big, big relief off me. Thank you so much for this, I've always had the mind set of .. I'm out of time and I'm join so late. I'm 25 now and I'll be joining around 27. I have to get the 15 credits since I acquired the GED. Anyways thank you again!

[@ravenplays9623]

Bro I'm 29 been an x-ray tech for 8 years looking for a change. Was at the Navy recruiter today.

[@Arnoldceja1]

I’m 35 and am seriously interested in joining the navy! I wasted most of my life due to sever drug addiction! I have 2 years clean and sober have a decent job grooming dogs, I program a lot with AA, NA, CODA, live at a sober living house. Paying off debts, all that I’m thinking I want to learn life skills, mechanical knowledge, discipline and structure and look at life more objectively so looking for all the info before I go to a recruiters office! If you have any feedback please don’t hesitate

[@jadelotus4941]

Yessssss. I'm 34 (about to complete a Bachelor's in Graphic Design) and have been mulling over this decision, majorly overthinking it, largely because of my age. I ask myself if I'd be okay with living in barracks, making less money than I have before, doing b**** work in the lower ranks... at my age. I have my personal motivations, but pulling the trigger on the decision makes me nervous. I considered going straight for the Officer candidacy (PAO), but the process, though... intense and no guarantee I'll be selected, especially as a civilian. So I'm considering enlisting first and then building up a little foundation for a stronger application, as you said. If joining as an E-3 and working hard, how soon can you shoot for a spot at OCS?

[@Temuulen3]

How did this work out for you? Did you join and try OCS route?

[@tesfagessese]

thank you for this video it helps a lot

[@FelipeCozachevicii]

36 here and just joined! I’ll start my basic oct-26!

[@DOOMSDAYDC4L]

Any advice for a 36 yr old trying to join

[@dneal4477]

I'm 27 going into the Navy

[@nickhetu4829]

we sell propane and propane accessories

[@MelloKingMal05]

Thanks for posting this! I'm currently in the DEP at age 28 and I ship off for RTC 20151130 and it had been nagging at me as far as what I should expect... I'm hopeful that my chosen rate of CTT doesn't change since I was visited by an investigator about some things I forgot about completely..

[@GingerSailor]

+Kamal Stringer Yes, Top secret will look into every detail of your life. most people that sign up for it will get it unless your're a convicted criminal, which I doubt is the case. It will take time so be patient and you should get it. What was suggested to me was to keep an in depth record of where you live and friends that knew you at the time as you go through your time in the navy to make it easier for the re-investigation that happens every 5 yrs for Top-secret. I will be needing top secret if I get assigned to a ballistic missle submarine.

[@MelloKingMal05]

+GingerSailor thanks for the advice I have tried to do that but I just honestly forgot some things and some things I disclosed to my recruiter weren't in my file and I had written statements and everything so it came out looking like I lied?

[@RioZLander]

awesome video makes me think at 29 now that in 2 years is not a bad goal to be joining the navy. got to work on slimming down on weight 1st. and its nice to know those collage creds wont be a waist back in the day, had close to enough for 2 bachelor's when i dropped out. most my schooling was metal shop art jewelry and auto mechanic classes.

[@jomobullen3273]

@Gingersailor lmao man you're hilarious and vey informative. i also have a background in track. I've been running most of life and volunteered as an assistant coach for two years. I want to join the navy as well so I'm glad to have someone like you keep me informed through your videos. Thank you

[@GingerSailor]

no problem! thanks

[@cebusam7545]

Our RCPO in boot camp just made the cutoff for age limit. Didn't know till graduation when he was wearing dress whites that he spent 3 years in Vietnam in Army. . Had his. Combat Infantry Badge! We also had a guy on our base that was a Korean Veteran who was a Commander who did something wrong and was busted dow to First Class. Nothing wrong with being an Old Timer! Should listen to their advise! I as an 18 year old who did nothing more than being Drunk my whole enlistment should have Listened!

[@NFAQs]

I joined the Navy when I was 24 and thought that I was gonna be The Old Guy because all the kids I'd see in MEPS were fresh outta high school. But I was right at the median age. We had guys ranging from someone who turned 18 in boot camp to someone who was as old as our Chief; 35. I then got out shortly before turning 30 and am now going back to school.

[@SSJess]

I’m 39 and trying to enlist

[@peterojas8202]

I nearly enlisted in the Navy at 32 in May 2008. But I told a couple of recruiters about disqualifying information ahead of time regarding fainting once, being medically disqualified in 1994. Then, after filling out enlistment documents I ended up reporting those recruiters to their boss and they likely ended up scolded for breaking Uniform Code of Military Justice by telling me to lie about disqualifying information in order to enlist. But if I had been qualified, it would have been something absolutely wonderful to have done. I was single with no kids, had never lived on my own away from my parents. Best wishes to all that join whom are legitimately qualified for all of the branches regardless of the duty. I just wanted to avoid the consequences which would have arisen if I had fraudulently enlisted.

[@Leorgo]

Sort of fucked up on your part..

[@peterojas8202]

Yes, there was information which I should have told my recruiter in August 1994. But, regarding fainting in May 2007, there was now way that I was going to lie about that to any MEPS doctors about, regardless of what a recruiter was going to tell me to lie.

[@peterojas8202]

Teddy D I actually busted those recruiters because when I called on the phone to the recruiting commander, the recruiting commander was very livid to know that. All recruiters of every branch must tell applicants to tell the truth. Any recruiter whom tells anyone to lie whom is not qualified, that recruiter is breaking Uniform Code of Military Justice. Such recruiter whom does that is subject to demotion in rank, possible fine, prison sentence, firing or at least a scolding by their recruiting commander. I was on the verge of dying in the emergency room and told to have an oxygen mask by the medic after being helped on the scene. Later at the hospital, a doctor was looking at my vital signs while on life support. Then, I was asked about which religion I followed because it seemed that I was close to dying. Fortunately, I had survived that. A MEPS doctor has to know that. There could have been any emergency imaginable related to fainting after enlisting. Then, my medical information could have been researched and it could have been discovered about the time in the ER. Later, I could have likely been dismissed from the Navy under negative circumstances. At the recruiting station, I needed additional paper to list my medical information which included the time I had fainted. When the recruiting commander had spoken to me he had angrily said," YOU ARE NOT QUALIFIED TO BE IN THE NAVY! I APOLOGIZE FOR THESE FOR WASTING YOUR TIME!" It was the recruiters whom were screwing with me not vice versa. All a recruiter had to tell me was that I was not qualified to have enlisted and honesty would have been appreciated as much as I wish that I was qualified. Leaders are to have integrity. That recruiting commander had no knowledge of medicine, but knew when a recruiter was telling someone to lie whom was not qualified. There was proof. One recruiter then was quite smug about telling unqualified applicants to lie about disqualifying information by saying once at the recruiting station when I was there, " I have been doing this for 6 years." That seemed a bit arrogant to be proud of himself of telling unqualified folks to lie about relevant enlistment information. His boss certainly showed him whom was knowledgeable about properly enlisting qualified individuals whom don't have to lie or withhold information. I did pass by that recruiting station a few years after that incident and noticed a name plate at the edge of his desk that included Honorable at the left edge of the name plate, followed by Navy rank, first and last name. Recruiters of all branches are instructed to honestly fill out all enlistment documents, not lie about anything, include extra information that is needed which has to be shared with MEPS doctors. Yes, I do still live at home with my parents. Do I regret restoring order and not telling a recruiting commander about what I had experienced when I dealt with those recruiters? Not at all. In a way, I feel that I did a favor for a variety of folks whom are uncertain of what to do when faced with the difficult decision to lie or tell the truth about medical history. An honest opinion ends up being told ahead of time. That way, such a fuss could be avoided. The recruiting commander had integrity, which is a leadership quality to have in the branches of the service. If I felt like it in the future, I could apply for a federal job and not have anything on my record about being punished for lying about medical information because I told the truth. Beyond a fine, imprisonment, I did notice at MEPS Navy liason wall that there was a punishment of hard labor. Never did I say a word to the recruiting commander which I had dealt with then about one recruiter having a recruiter whom had the distinction of telling unqualified folks for 6 years. He would have been more livid in person than he was over the phone. Army recruiters asked me at home a few weeks later after the incident. Then, I explained what happened and even then both Army recruiters had told me that I was not qualified to enlist in the Army. One even asked what the recruiting commander had told me and told him what was mentioned here. His estimated guess after what I had to him that I was not qualified any branch of the military. I appreciate the integrity of those 2 Army recruiters whom had told the truth about me being qualified at all. In this instance, being honest was very vital. It would have been to risky to have agreed to lie about disqualifying information and did not want to find out what the circumstances would have entailed had I not stood up for myself by snitching on 1 or more folks when needed.

[@housegarden1378]

That is one way to live life I suppose. You simply should have not even went knowing the conditions you have. You should have known yourself if you qualified or not. A little lie will get you ahead in life. It makes situations a lot smoother. I feel you may be the type of person you to be too honest to the point it affects you negatively. Common sense is important in life. Reading books and following code is great but you need to be above that. You need to be able to think for yourself. If you had passion and truly wanted to be join and serve then you would be in that mindset. They would have weeded you out if you couldn't past training. He wasn't risking other soldiers lives with this lie. He knew for a fact you weren't qualified. You see a able man that wants to serve and seems to have mental stability but has disqualifying information. You know what. He may be a good soldier. He just needs a shot to go to training and then go on to proudly serve alongside other soldiers. Then he gets you. You didn't want to serve. You let that stop you from joining. Simply telling a small lie? Next time a women ask if she looks good say she doesn't meet the beautiful standard because you need to be completely honest. And make sure you tell her she is fat. If she even slightly doesn't look good. You better not lie because moral standards. A small lie helps a lot of situations go smoothly without complicating things. I seriously doubt anything happened to those recruiters. He just told you that to get you off the phone or stop you from calling more.

[@peterojas8202]

+House Garden Action was taken and attitude about the proper type of applicants to pursue and then eventually prepare to process. At least one of the recruiters involved has been retired since Sept. 2014. It wasn't worth the risk to lie about a medical emergency that almost cost me my life, regardless of what the recruiter would have said.

[@chrisbowers3956]

Thank you I'm 26 now I'll be 27 when I go in thanks

[@lohst1672]

You’re 31 now.. hope it is going well.

[@afooks8609]

Thank you for this. I leave 2016DEC13 and it hasn't been bothering me too much about going in at my age, (27), but it is in the back of my head. I was concerned about how the RDCs treat older ppl in boot. Makes sense that they would expect more from you maturity wise. Anywho, like you said, at least there's the higher pay grade from college. Woot woot!

[@GingerSailor]

You'll do just fine :) I wish you the best of luck!

[@jaden85643]

Andrea Davis we leave the same day lol

[@afooks8609]

Johnathan Carr Niceeee! See u there! :)

[@afooks8609]

GingerSailor You were right! Graduated on 10FEB17 ... had a blast thru the good and bad. Haha thank you for your help, seriously boosted me. Hooyah!

[@cheezmontage]

Thanks so much for making this video lol I'm 26, I'll be 27 next month and am looking to join.

[@theblackknight9783]

Biggest challenge about joining in your 30s is a lot of your superiors will be a lot younger. I've had to take orders from people who are almost almost 20yrs younger then me.

[@GingerSailor]

That was honestly my biggest problem. Once I progressed a little, I got to stop talking orders from the young young ones

[@psychotic2270]

thanks for this video...I'm 27 and trying to join the navy seals after school in a couple months

[@sandwhich14]

psychotic Did you join?

[@The_Laughing_Dead]

Any tips for an old head going in? You mentioned you were a track coach and that’s where I’m struggling. Never been good at running lol I’m getting back into it now but that 1.5time is rough

[@franciaschweninger956]

thanks for the encouragement

[@MrWoodleyf]

I enlisted for 6 years in 1980 at age 27. I was prior service, USCGR. We had one older (30) guy in basic, also prior service. I wanted to be nuclear trained and then the recruiter said there was a 25 year age limit for nuc school. So, I volunteered for sub duty and advanced electronics schools. I became a missile technician and stayed for 16 years (early retirement due to downsizing of the military).

[@pauldalgarn2116]

I went to boot in 1984. The oldest guy in our company was 35. He washed out before the second week. Didn't like being pushed around by guys younger then him. Boot was a little different in the '80's.

[@CharlesCowart-x2w]

Great video to watch. I've been living abroad a few years and wish to return to serve, would be 30 by the time I hope to enlist.

[@GingerSailor]

+Charles C well I wish you the best of luck. I'm thirty right now lol

[@petec6159]

Better shape before Boot Camp? I was 21 when I joined the Navy. 1988-1997. Boot Camp got me in the best shape of my life.

[@BryantBaudelaire]

I'm 28 I live I Cleveland Ohio and I'm joining the Navy soon

[@lpdzzlfshzzl]

Thanks for video very informative I'm in the process of joining the navy at 33. This helps greatly

[@GingerSailor]

+lpdzzlfshzzl no problem whatsoever

[@kaisoisla]

all the best I enlisted at 33 as well :-)

[@kwaaddo]

I’m 39 and thinking about joining active. I was in the guard for 6yrs and I ETS this month. I have some college credits and I’m currently an E4. Does the army rank transfer?

[@rickyd3987]

That's something you should talk to your recruiter about definitely! Might be a little harder, but they shouldn't give you lower then an E-3

[@kwaaddo]

@@rickyd3987 I’ve been talking to a recruiter and he thinks they’ll start me at E1. He says my rank will transfer if I go reserves but for AD, it’s E1

[@JhawoCan]

Im 36 bro. Any updates about your joining now?

[@IkeSpeaksUp]

I'm 24 in June and will be enlisting this year for Spec Ops. Thanks bro.

[@donnelly5757]

The physical fitness activity I remember doing in boot camp was minimal at best. I don't know how much boot camp has changed since 2008, but I remember doing a lot of folding clothes.lol At 33 years of age, I was the oldest one in my division. As long as a person has some life experience and a reasonable amount of fitness, then going in at an older age should not be too troublesome.

[@GingerSailor]

+Donnelly Miller I honestly thinl being older helped me. It wasn't too bad at all for me. an hour here and there wasn't to pleasant but it was still fine. From your description, it see,s about the same, as what you went through,

[@wisdeerman]

+GingerSailor I'm 33, and ship in 4 days to RTC. I'm 118 lbs, and 70 inches, so I'm a skinny fucker. I honestly didn't know the Navy would take me, I got through MEPS with a waiver for my foot, which I have hardware in. I'm excited, but nervous. I can run, curl ups are easy, but my arms are wore out from 14.5 years in a factory. Please give me the encouragement I need, I'll turn 34 at Great Lakes.

[@GingerSailor]

you only need to do 31 pushups for the age group, I believe you can do it!!! lol. It might hurt a bit but its just 2 minutes max with any pain you feel. I belive in you

[@donnelly5757]

I would always try and do a few push-ups every other night. Best advise is use that stretch shortening cycle and go down as quick as you can and use that spring to help push you back up when doing push-ups. Make sure form is proper, but do it fast that way if you do begin to tire, you have enough time to bust out the last few push-ups.

[@franciscolarranaga6778]

I was 26 during bootcamp and everyone thought I was 19 lmao

[@balochr5144]

Love you man you are 🇺🇸 USA 🇺🇸 lions 🦁 god bless America god bless you guys.

[@sweatygamergainz870]

Bro. I’m joining at 40. 😅

[@rayprusia4753]

I am 55 and wish, I could join the Navy again!

[@TheFloresj23]

How do feel about older guys going in as a reservist. I have a great career. Not worried about going in as a E-1 or E-2 just wondering your thoughts

[@enchantedstargoddess6837]

Thanks for sharing ❤️

[@Player-fr3vc]

If all goes well I will be in OCS(navy) in roughly 2 years and then after that 12 weeks I hope to move onto flight school. Thanks for your navy videos!

[@GingerSailor]

+Player 1 no prob. If all goes smoothly, I'll be in ocs in 2 yrs lol.

[@Player-fr3vc]

GingerSailor Well good luck to you; at least your men will respect you more than me after we graduate lol (not enlisted) Are you wanting to switch gears from subs to something else?

[@GingerSailor]

+Player 1 that remains to be seen. If I like submarines, I'll stay in that area The deployments are smaller...well not smaller but more spread out. Its every 2-3 months with a 2-3 month break in between instead of every 6-9 months for surface. That might be the deciding factor in the long run. But on surface you can communicate with loved ones on an almost daily basis...for subs, not the case. We get to send out emails when we occasionally surface once every few weeks.

[@Player-fr3vc]

GingerSailor That's rough, but that's also a nice break. I guess everything's a tradeoff. I definitely am set on surface operations; and aviation is what I'm drawn to. Honestly UDT, NCDU or NFO would be just as cool for me, but I've always wanted to fly since as far back as I can remember.

[@jakezweig]

DUDE why did you enlist?

[@ReassuringSmile]

Certainly doesn't take a year to process OCS when I spoke to the navy recruiter... you simply do you your physical, medical, OAR, interview, and gather paperwork. Enlisted recruiters are there to meet quota... Officer recruiters will tell you things at face value

[@GingerSailor]

did you join through the OCS route?