Military Pilots?

[JD¹³]

I know this isn't the section for it, but we have no lounge so where else was I supposed to put it?

I know there are a lot of military folk on here so am wondering if there are any pilots and more specifically - fighter pilots. I'm thinking of joining the Forces up here in Canada and am looking for some input and insight I guess you could say into the life.

I have a pretty good idea as I'm a Cold War baby, I was born in Lahr, Germany on the Canadian base there. My father was stationed with NATO forces flying the 104 Starfighter. He's also flown the F-5, done 2 tours with the Snowbirds aerobatic team (1 as team leader), and was being checked out in the F-18 to become base commander of Cold Lake, AB (one of the biggest fighter bases in the country) when he decided to retire and fly commerically.

I'm pretty sure I know what I'm getting into, and I know the Canadian and American forces will be slightly different but the profession is pretty much the same. My biggest fear will be dealing with higher ranks and the classic military condescension. I can deal with authority as much as I hate it, but I have a pretty strong personality and assholes that bite usually get bitten back. I know insubordination is not taken lightly.

I already have a university degree so will be doing direct entry as an Officer. Providing I pass selection, BOT, and the actual pilot selection process (all of which should be a snap for me) what can I expect? In the long run I would hope to do transfer tours in the US since you guys have some awesome basings. Air Force in San Diego, Las Vegas, and South Florida (Key West I think?) sound good to me! A friend of my father's flew with the USN out of Los Angeles as well, even going to the Gulf with them in '91.

But I know it won't all be gravy, so any insight both positive and negative, or commentary in general would be appreciated.

[bafflebrain]

No more girls and bikes for you..ahahaha.

Good luck JD.

[Camel Jockey]

CALL THE BALL MAVERICK.....

That was always something that I always wanted to do but never did. I'm not sure you'll find anyone smart enough on this website to be a pilot. OH, it's just a joke, chill...

[Area 51]

I refuse to cooperate with this thread because it belongs in the lounge.

[JD¹³]

Originally Posted by Camel Jockey

CALL THE BALL MAVERICK.....

The funny thing is that movie came out the year I was born, and like Maverick my dad is also really well known in the Air Force (but not because he's dead). I'm actually a bit afraid of being in his shadow the whole time should I go for it. The similarities between that movie and my situation make me laugh and cry at the same time.

Iron Eagle was a rad movie too

[adamgh81]

This needs to go in the Lounge.
I am a pilot, but not as my military career. If you "bite back," be ready to accept the reprocussions of being in the military...rank and position means a lot. Respect your brass, your superiors can help or kill your career. As for flying in the military, it's the best you can get, the best training and you don't even have to pay for it. As for the life, I am in the National Guard, so I don't have to move every few years, if you don't mind picking up and moving a lot, then go for it.

[fishhead]

best advice I ever heard while in the AF: "Never pass up an opportunity to keep your mouth shut"...I couldn't live by it either, though.

Best of luck, mate.

[mantis_nyc]

Canada has an Air Force?

[bafflebrain]

Originally Posted by mantis_nyc

Canada has an Air Force?

We're fewer but no doubt among the best...

[roadkill]

Originally Posted by JD¹³

In the long run I would hope to do transfer tours in the US since you guys have some awesome basings. Air Force in San Diego, Las Vegas, and South Florida (Key West I think?) sound good to me! A friend of my father's flew with the USN out of Los Angeles as well, even going to the Gulf with them in '91.

San Diego and Key West are navy towns....gotta be a tailhooker to trawl in those waters.

Best of luck....keep in touch.

[Busy Little Shop]

If I had my military career to live over again I would definitely sign up as a Fighter Pilot...

[duckdawg]

Everyone in the U.S. army is a fighter,
that said, I learned to fight in a T-34.
I will fight anyone, any time in the sky...


to the death...

[roadkill]

Originally Posted by Busy Little Shop

If I had my military career to live over again I would definitely sign up as a Fighter Pilot...

Larry, they don't make V4 fighters.....they are all stinky jet turbines.

[RockyMt]

Originally Posted by Area 51

I refuse to cooperate with this thread because it belongs in the lounge.

Just one question my friend, who are "they" and what is "we"? (conspiracy theorists want to know........ ) "Informationclearinghouse"????, Huffingtonreport? Put down the Cool-Aide, I think the Cindy (GAG!, PUKE!) Sheehan for president commitee is ringing yer doorbell.

-Rocky-

[robfromsc]

Originally Posted by JD¹³

The funny thing is that movie came out the year I was born, and like Maverick my dad is also really well known in the Air Force (but not because he's dead). I'm actually a bit afraid of being in his shadow the whole time should I go for it. The similarities between that movie and my situation make me laugh and cry at the same time.

Iron Eagle was a rad movie too

you said 'rad'



it was a good movie!

[RockyMt]

Almost forgot on my previous post, GOOD LUCK with your endevour, 'tis a higher calling you follow!

-Rocky-

[Busy Little Shop]

Originally Posted by roadkill

Larry, they don't make V4 fighters.....they are all stinky jet turbines.

True... props make me hot... jets leave me cold...

Who else going to the Reno Air Races Sept 14???

[thatkindasux]

im a third generation aviator. I have friends flying every type of aircraft in the military. If you have specific questions i can send you in their direction. If its been in your gut to do it this long, and you have no problems with a 12-14 year commitment and taking life; then do it.

[Old Fart]

Originally Posted by mantis_nyc

Canada has an Air Force?

My uncle was a Brig Colonel in the USAF. He retired when he was pushed to become a General. 'Those lazy sob's do nothing' he stated. He held several key positions including Pentagon assignments and (excuse me for not knowing the formal term) the guy responsible for assuring that all Air Force functions were done by the book. The sort of guy that caused people to run and hide when he came on base.

As to the RCAF he held it in the highest esteem with Britain next and the USAF in third.......

[Old Fart]

Originally Posted by Busy Little Shop

True... props make me hot... jets leave me cold... Who else goes to the Reno Air Races???

Mmmm. Sea Fury with a corncob. What a wonderful combination.