What’s behind the US army’s decision to raise enlistment age to 42?

The US Army has updated its enlistment regulations, raising the maximum age for enlistment from 35 to 42 years. The changes also eliminate the requirement for a waiver for individuals with a single conviction for marijuana possession or drug paraphernalia. The updated regulation takes effect on April 20 and applies to the Regular Army, Army Reserve, and Army National Guard. The changes bring the army into alignment with other branches of the military.