When Duty Calls: 7 Oldest People to Ever Join the Military
When it comes to serving one’s country, age is just a number for some individuals. While most people think of military service as a career path for the young, there have been many instances of older adults joining the armed forces. Here are 7 inspiring stories of the oldest people to ever join the military.
1. Stephen Hopkins (USA) - 70 years old
Stephen Hopkins, a Rhode Island native, holds the record for being the oldest person to join the US military. In 1776, at the age of 70, Hopkins enlisted in the Continental Army to fight in the American Revolutionary War. He served as a lieutenant colonel and played a key role in the Battle of Long Island. Hopkins’ bravery and dedication earned him a special place in American history.
2. James H. Nichols (USA) - 65 years old
In 1861, 65-year-old James H. Nichols joined the Union Army during the American Civil War. Nichols, a farmer from Ohio, enlisted as a private in the 1st Ohio Infantry Regiment. He saw action in several battles, including the Battle of Shiloh, and was discharged in 1862 due to illness.
3. John Brown (USA) - 62 years old
Abolitionist John Brown, famous for leading the raid on Harpers Ferry, joined the Kansas Militia in 1855 at the age of 62. Brown’s exploits in Kansas and his later raid on Harpers Ferry were instrumental in sparking the American Civil War.
4. Robert Kirkwood (USA) - 61 years old
Robert Kirkwood, a veteran of the American Revolutionary War, reenlisted in the US Army in 1813 at the age of 61. Kirkwood, a Delaware native, served as a captain in the War of 1812 and saw action in the Battle of Lundy’s Lane.
5. Yoshito Kashiwagi (Japan) - 60 years old
During World War II, 60-year-old Yoshito Kashiwagi joined the Imperial Japanese Army. Kashiwagi, a veteran of the Russo-Japanese War, served as a reserve officer and was stationed in Manchuria.
6. Samuel Davidson (Canada) - 59 years old
In 1915, 59-year-old Samuel Davidson enlisted in the Canadian Army during World War I. Davidson, a veteran of the Boer War, served as a sergeant in the 31st Battalion and saw action in France.
7. Sam Aubrey (Australia) - 58 years old
Sam Aubrey, a veteran of the Boer War, joined the Australian Imperial Force in 1915 at the age of 58. Aubrey served as a major in the 10th Light Horse Regiment and saw action in the Middle East during World War I.
🏆 Note: These ages are verified through historical records and may not be exact, but they are generally accepted as the oldest ages at which these individuals joined the military.
These inspiring stories of older adults joining the military demonstrate that age is not a barrier to serving one’s country. Whether motivated by patriotism, a sense of duty, or a desire for adventure, these individuals have left an indelible mark on history.
What is the typical age range for military service?
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The typical age range for military service varies by country, but in the United States, it is generally between 17 and 35 years old.
Can older adults still join the military?
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Yes, older adults can still join the military, but there may be certain restrictions and requirements that apply. For example, the US military has a maximum age limit of 42 for enlisted personnel and 45 for officers.
What are some benefits of joining the military at an older age?
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Joining the military at an older age can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, as well as opportunities for education and career advancement. Additionally, older adults may bring valuable life experience and maturity to their military service.
In summary, while the typical age range for military service may be between 17 and 35, there have been many instances of older adults joining the armed forces throughout history. These individuals have demonstrated that age is not a barrier to serving one’s country, and their stories serve as an inspiration to others.
