Military players:need advice

[Mojo workin']

I'm just noticing that the U.S. Army has raised its maximum enlistment age to 41 years of age. I had personally written off the idea of joining the military when I passed the cutoff age of 34. I wonder if the military players out there could chime in on whether it would be a good idea to try to enlist in one of the Army bands at age 40?

What would the starting pay be?

Is there any talk of raising maximum enlistment age in the other services?

Anyone in Pershing's Own or USAFB retiring or quitting anytime soon?

[ai698]

You'll come in as an E4. Check this site first.

http://bands.army.mil/

[LoyalTubist]

Actually, you come in as an E-3 and you are promoted to E-4 upon successful completion of the School of Music.

Rank of Specialist/E-4 upon Enlistment (ACASP)

ACASP = The Army Civilian Acquired Skills Program attracts and uses persons with civilian-acquired skills required by the Army. The Engineers presently have eight MOSs in this program. A person qualified for ACASP may be given an advance in grade upon enlistment and may be awarded an MOS. ACASP is available to qualified men and women with or without Prior Service.

ACASP applicants must present valid evidence of completion of required civilian training to enlistment authorities. This evidence may include certificates, transcripts, diplomas, union cards, or employment records showing the period of actual work experience, training received, degree of proficiency attained, and a summary of duties and training in a civilian-acquired skill. Training may include successful completion of union, industry, or Government recognized training or apprenticeship programs.

For the Band Program, this is completion of the School of Music.

They don't hand out E-4 to just anyone.

[Mojo workin']

Thanks. How much are E-3 and E-4 salaries presently?

[Dean E]

Remember also:

--Housing allowance (tax free)
--Rations/meals when living off-post (tax free)
--Free dental & medical (plus insurance subject to co-payments for family members)
--Free uniforms
--Commissary available
--Thrift Savings Plan (similar to civilian 401K)
--Servicemembers Group Life Insurance
--Free space available air travel
--Various education programs
--Retirement with pay after 20 years of active duty

Drawbacks: Families often have a hard time making ends meet. Since 2001, the Family Subsistence Supplemental Allowance (FSSA) Program kicks in up to $500 per month to keep military enlisted off of food stamps.
http://www.stewart.army.mil/ima/sites/d ... s/fssa.asp