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December 12, 2006
Army Likes Its Older Recruits
PETERSBURG, Va.
Washington Post
As the World Trade Center rubble smoldered, Sharon Samuel felt determined to do something for her adopted country; she decided to enlist in the Army.
But the Army told the Brooklyn hairdresser she was too old.
"I wanted to serve. I wanted to give back," said the 40-year-old Trinidad native. "I have felt the pain New Yorkers felt."
Samuel got a second chance this year when the Army increased its maximum enlistment age to 42. So, off she went to Fort Lee, about 25 miles south of Richmond, for training in logistical support.
She has joined more than 1,460 people in the 35-to-42 age bracket who have enlisted in the Army and Army Reserve since Congress authorized extending the enlistment cutoff beyond age 35.
"The overall population that you're talking about is minuscule, but what we're gaining in terms of experience and maturity and desire is phenomenal," Shwedo said. "Virtually every one of them is called Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, but they bring a special flair to every soldier in that group."
Of the nation's military services, the Army has the highest age limit, with the others ranging from 27 to 34, and up to 39 for reserve components. Most branches consider waivers for those over the age limit who have prior military service.
Wild Thing's comment.....
I think this is great, anytime I hear about a person loving this country so much and wanting to serve in the military it makes me proud and grateful too.
We hear so many negative stories in the media, I thought you all might like to read one that is upbeat and positive. One of someone so determined to serve our country that even having to wait she never lost her desire.
Posted by Wild Thing at December 12, 2006 12:47 AM
