Perhaps we do not
need to retain people after 22 years. The question should really be, why don't we, except in very limited circumstances.
Why do we scrap people at 40 years of age, when they have so much experience and still have so much to offer ?
Some people would possibly like to stay past 40, others would not.
I was offered a 2 year extension ( by the CO ) I was fully de-kitted and 3 days before I drove out the gate for the last time. Bit of a stunned reaction when it was politely turned down.
Well Sir '' IMO, that is a conversion that should have happened 12 - 18 months ago, not 3 days before I drive out the gate for the last time and all my ducks are lined up for a life in civvy street ''
ETA this thread
Kick them out at 40 ( after 22 years ) and then look for re-enlisters up to the age of 56 ?
I'm sure there is method in the madness.