Old guy entering Air Force, please advise...

Specialties Government

Published

Specializes in ER, ICU.

I'm entering the Air National Guard as a flight nurse. I have no military past and am 45. Are people like me treated fairly? I'm on my third career in nursing so I'm used to learning new things and comfortable being a newcomer. I would hope that people would judge me on my enthusiasm, expertise, and professionalism and leave it at that, but I don't know. I read a recent post that said the military isn't set up for older entrants. Can anyone give me some perspective on this? I've been wanting to join for many years but couldn't because of my family situation. Now divorced, I'm eager to serve both my county and soldiers in action. Any input would be appreciated, thanks.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Anesthesia.
I'm entering the Air National Guard as a flight nurse. I have no military past and am 45. Are people like me treated fairly? I'm on my third career in nursing so I'm used to learning new things and comfortable being a newcomer. I would hope that people would judge me on my enthusiasm, expertise, and professionalism and leave it at that, but I don't know. I read a recent post that said the military isn't set up for older entrants. Can anyone give me some perspective on this? I've been wanting to join for many years but couldn't because of my family situation. Now divorced, I'm eager to serve both my county and soldiers in action. Any input would be appreciated, thanks.

You will be judged like everyone else, if you can do your job no one will care about your age.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, ICU.

Thanks so much! I appreciate your reply.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ED. ICU, PICU, infection prevention, aeromedical e.

I'm new to the AF at 42. I went through my commissioning source training with a broad mix of people. I was not the oldest one there. Yes, some young kids judge you on how fit you are or if you can keep up. But most of us just wanted to do our best and realized we all bring our own talents. Just always stay positive and do your best. That is the key.

Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, ICU.

Thanks, I'm so looking forward to getting started!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Flight/ICU/CCU/ED/Trauma.

There will be a time at SERE school where you wish you would have done this 15 years ago, lol. I was there...

There really isn't an unfair attitude that I noticed. The only rough part can be when you show up as a Capt or Maj and everyone expects you to know what the heck is going on...but you have no clue because the whole thing is new to you. That part can be frustrating. Just make sure to do your homework. There are some great resources available to help you realize what your commitment really means. And I encourage you to learn to become an effective officer sooner rather than later...you already know how to be a nurse. And you won't really get to do much nursing in the flight program unless you are doing a mission anyway.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

One time our nut case commander decided to have the company go on a run down to division headquarters and back in the hot, hot Texas sun, about six or seven miles. We wore combat boots instead of running shoes. I was behind the First Sergeant who was about 42 or 44. When we got back he was so red and perspiring and pale looking afterward, I was afraid we were going to have to send him to the hospital. I was about 20 years younger than him. I asked him how he was able to do it, his response: "Beer. It's the beer."

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, ICU.
There will be a time at SERE school where you wish you would have done this 15 years ago, lol. I was there...

There really isn't an unfair attitude that I noticed. The only rough part can be when you show up as a Capt or Maj and everyone expects you to know what the heck is going on...but you have no clue because the whole thing is new to you. That part can be frustrating. Just make sure to do your homework. There are some great resources available to help you realize what your commitment really means. And I encourage you to learn to become an effective officer sooner rather than later...you already know how to be a nurse. And you won't really get to do much nursing in the flight program unless you are doing a mission anyway.

I intend to take my position seriously and do it well. I have gotten good vibes from the unit I will be joining. I won't be able to attend COT until next year so I can finish grad school but will start training weekends as soon as they finally get me the paperwork. Thanks for the reply.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Flight/ICU/CCU/ED/Trauma.

If you have any in depth questions, send them to me by PM. I don't get on here as much as I used to...time is a premium, these days. I am both a civilian and AF flight nurse, so I know what you're going to be doing to get there. Happy to help!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
I'm entering the Air National Guard as a flight nurse. I have no military past and am 45. Are people like me treated fairly? I'm on my third career in nursing so I'm used to learning new things and comfortable being a newcomer. I would hope that people would judge me on my enthusiasm, expertise, and professionalism and leave it at that, but I don't know. I read a recent post that said the military isn't set up for older entrants. Can anyone give me some perspective on this? I've been wanting to join for many years but couldn't because of my family situation. Now divorced, I'm eager to serve both my county and soldiers in action. Any input would be appreciated, thanks.

Hi Im an older guy do anyone know if an 49 year old lpn cna get his rn and then join or is there a program to join then work on getting rn i have 10yrs prev. service

Up Vote Up Vote ×

hi im 49 years old do anyone know how i can joint the Army im an lpn and interested in becomming an army nurse BSN RN

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, ICU.

Sorry the AF has oldest age limit at 47 (without waiver). I'm guessing you would have to show some exceptional ability to get a waiver but I don't know. If you have prior service that might help but again not sure.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment