Expert: Rod Powers - 11/5/2006

Question
Hey Rod, first I want to commend you on your continued assistance and what knowledge you bring to your readers. I've been researching military stuff for a number of years and I always end up reading something you wrote. My question is such: I am a 30 year old male and have long awaited joining the military. I'm too old for active duty as an officer and too old to go enlisted as an E-4 and get paid nothing. I've chosen to go the Coast Guard's Direct Reserve Commissioning Program where you go through a board process and see if you're chosen to enter the reserves as an officer. I, much like an earlier question someone posted who you answered, have a young family and also am a special investigator with the government. I don't want to sign up and get commissioned then asked to pack my bags to iraq, yehman, bahrain or anything other than the good ole' U.S.A. Is there a particular rate (my interest lies in electronics) that would keep me here and if there is a great chance that no matter what I chose I could get deployed, should I sign up at all? Thanks Rod.

Sincerely,

Chris

Answer
Hi Chris,

Where did you get the "too old" fact? In most of the military branches, the maximum age for commission is age 34, unless you're trying to become a pilot or navigator.

I'm afraid I don't have any rating (job) recommendations. The Coast Guard does have a few people in Iraq/Afghanistan, but it is only a handful.

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com