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RDF rejoin in your 40’s

  • 13-06-2025 10:49PM
    #1
    sbc08772690
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8 ✭


    Looking for consensus whether applying to rejoin the RDF at 43 is a good/bad decision mainly due to being older. In good shape and physically fit albeit more to do to reach fitness run test standard. I previously half service with the RDF for a one year period up to 2015 to become a 2*. Circumstances then outside off my control lead me to focus attention elsewhere unfortunately and wasn’t able to commit further. Because of the previous service I am able to apply up to age 45 instead of the 39 non service age limit. I have always had a desire to rejoin and this is my last chance to do so atm. Is there anyone else in this situation contemplating the same? Would be welcomed to hear all sides.



Comments

  • #2
    CrabRevolution
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,030 ✭✭✭CrabRevolution


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058416344/rdf-rejoin-in-your-40-s

    Late response here but I'd recommend you go for it. No idea what unit you were in but it takes months (at the least) to get in so if I were you I'd apply ASAP and mull it over more while your application goes through.

    I joined (for the first time) 2 years ago and thought I was old in my early 30s with most of my platoon being 19-25, but it actually matters a lot less than I thought. You're all suffering recruit training together and that helps bridge generation gaps and forge friendships.

    There was one guy in our section like yourself who had previous RDF experience, and we found him a great help with his knowledge and experience.

    And at the end of the day if you find you hate it you can just hand the uniform back and quit.



  • #3
    sbc08772690
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8 ✭sbc08772690


    Thanks @CrabRevolution for your reply. Sell going through the process atm with fitness test and vetting completed. Still awaiting medical and interview with 7th Bn Cathal Brugha and attending weekly training such asfoot drills and specified lectures to bring all inductees up to speed and avoid drop outs unlike years ago where nothing seemed to happen for quite some time so keeps us now engaged in the process. Surprising there is a good age mix present although the majority are younger there still are inductees closer to my age group been considered for the platoon overall. I have been acknowledged already for previous experience by NCO’s and fellow inductees and am sure I’ll be ready to help any future recruit requiring help to gain further experience and build friendships.



  • #4
    CrabRevolution
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,030 ✭✭✭CrabRevolution


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123712550#Comment_123712550

    Fair play. From what I've heard the 7th are one of the better organised units so hopefully you get the medical soon.

    Enjoy it!



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