21 years old to be a truck driver, but 18 to be a Soldier? What age makes sense?

2014-06-06T22:33:06-04:00

To drive a semi tractor trailer over the road in the US you have to be older than 21.The stress our soldiers go through is equivalent to or more dangerous than truck driving. What's your thoughts?

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 10:36 PM

2014-06-06T22:36:30-04:00

SPC Serati,

I believe 18 is still the most appropriate age. This has worked well in the past.

Perhaps a bit younger with parental / guardian consent and a military waiver.

Warmest Regards, Sandy

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 10:52 PM

2014-06-06T22:52:03-04:00

PFC Serati, I personally believe the current age requirements is appropriate. And I'm not sure of the life of an over the road truck driver, but I don't think it compares to that of a Soldier in combat. Seventeen year olds, and younger have fought for our great country since the American Revolution. The average age of Soldiers during Vietnam was a mere nineteen. Basically, if it's not broke, don't fix it.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 10:58 PM

2014-06-06T22:58:24-04:00

I'm sure it has to do with insurance and maybe supervision levels. The Army is able to provide supervision as needed where as a commercial driver may just be told to get in their rig and fly solo. Insurance wise I don't know how it plays out but being as the cost of mine dropped when I turned 21 I have to think its a factor somehoe

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 1:13 AM

2015-02-15T01:13:10-05:00

If you can join the military at 18 and we all consider you an adult at 18 then you should be allowed to do anything any adult can do at that point.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2015 6:11 PM

2015-02-18T18:11:50-05:00

Soldiers are provided supervision. Truckers aren't. I can't say that there's any scientific backing for picking 18 and 21 as the magic numbers, but there is SOME logic behind it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2015 6:30 PM

2015-02-18T18:30:36-05:00

Never understood, why 21 and not 18. Like you said, if at 18 yrs old you are allowed to joined the armed forces and fight for your country, you are allow to vote for the president of the US, and even allowed to buy smokes. (Not promoting smoking, just stating the facts) why not to drive an 18 wheeler or even buy a drink?. I understand your frustrations, you are old enough for some things and not old enough for others. Like my old PIG used to say " it is, what it is" (sic)