[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

Mike,

Over here at least, it was 18, or 17 with parental approval, or even less if you were well-developed enough to lie about your age and get away with it.

In the Canadian military cemetery on the Moro River just south of Ortona, the youngest inhabitant is just 15. I've forgotten his name, but I'll never forget how looking at his grave made me feel when I first saw it in 1975.

There was really no upper age limit if you were physically fit, although they generally drew the line at approximately 40. There were many in their late 30s... but don't forget, our army overseas was all-volunteer, so any man who could do the job was accepted. The "old men" were considered leaders regardless of rank, and from all I've read, fulfilled the role well.

I suspect the British Army was much the same as all above.

Can you tell me the context of your questions?