Air Force Age Difference

Question

I'm 25 and am thinking of joining the Air Force.

Is it awkward for people who joining later in life?

What is it like? Will there be people my own age and if there are, can we have a casual work relationship or is it always so formal and you have to salute SO's every nano-second?

I know there are going to be younger people who will outrank me, but will they use their power unresponsibly?

Thank you!

Answer 1

If those things are your biggest worry then military life is not for you.  

Answer 2

If you have any college credits, that could give you an extra stripe or two, depending upon how many credits.

It is a bit awkward but then again, almost any business you go into now days, you could have a supervisor that is much younger than you.  

Your age will be noticed and you will be expected to act at a more mature level than that 18 or 19 year old with the same rank.

Once you are in a few years, everything will level out and nobody will even notice, including yourself.

As mentioned in one of the earlier postings, it is quite similar to a 9-5 job in the Air Force.

Despite the age, you will receive a paycheck, guaranteed 2x per month.  You will have Full Health, Dental and Vision Coverage + a bunch of additional benefits that make it all worth it.  Finally... you can look at a 20 year retirement when you are 45.  Not too bad.

Answer 3

My husband joined at 24.  Yes, there will be many younger people.  Some will out rank you, but sometimes age on your part could be an advantage.  You would more than likely be more responsible that your younger counter parts and they'd leave you alone.  You don't salute every second.  Once you get through your boot camp and schooling, it's usually like going to a 9-5 job.

Answer 4

When you are ready to begin a new career, is when you are ready.