Nobody went through UPT with the acknowledgement that they'd be pulling staff tours for a decade. It is true that such is the reality, but it is pretty disingenuous to suggest people line up for a UPT slot for the promise of silver oak leaves and joint tours.

That said, this job has a shelf life of 10 years, sometimes less. This job is best served part-time, where you can fly without it being viewed in the pejorative light it is viewed in the Active Duty. I think Marvin overshot the mark by suggesting those who only want to fly should have not applied in the first place. Straight from the senior leadership playbook, only lifers and careerists are worthy of the distinction of serving as pilots. gimme a break.

The problem with being so shoulder shruggin about the reality that only people inclined to being desk jockeys are adept to a military career is that it absolutely and positively does not retain tactical experience, only lifer coasters or yes men with questionable stick and rudder skills. I've seen first hand what an up or out system and the utilization of aircraft seat quals viewed primarily as promotion fodder does to the mission. It's sickening. so there is something of value to be held by lifer flyers. But as has been highlighted already, the chair force dismissed that track long ago. It is indeed a pre-announced war. Most are best served doing 10 and pulling chocks. Being able to live with my choices in life is much more valuable than a check to me. Which is why i went Reserves. And if and when that too becomes too active duty like to be worth the effort, i'll do something else. Life's too short. Good luck.