US Army raises maximum enlistment age to 42
US Army soldier in universal camouflage uniform.
nThe US Army has raised its maximum enlistment age from 35 to 42, aligning its recruitment policy with that of most other US military branches.
nThe new rules allow individuals aged up to 42 to enlist in the US Army, the National Guard and the Army Reserve, according to the 159-page regulation published by the Army this month.
nThe change takes effect on April 20.
nThe Army previously raised the enlistment age to 42 in 2006, during the Iraq War, but lowered it back to 35 a decade later.
nThe Air Force and Navy already accept recruits up to age 40.
nThe Marine Corps sets the age limit for recruits at 28, but older candidates can enlist with special authorization.
nThe minimum enlistment age remains 17 with parental consent, or 18.
nUnder the new rules, the Army will also allow the enlistment of individuals with a single marijuana-related conviction.
nAFP
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