Thanks, guys. Oka, sounds like you and I have similar sentiments.

Alder, FedEx seems like the ideal choice; of course I'm sure putting all eggs in one basket would not be wise (aka ultimately I'm sure the thing to do is to plan to apply everywhere that is hiring and then decide based on offers), however it sounds like it can take a year or more to land an interview.

The details I'm having trouble digging out of the mil regs are ones like: when exactly can I drop my retirement letter (is it 2 years or 14 months before 20 years of service)? Would it be legal/acceptable for me to start a profile with FedEx before then as long as I am clear about when I will be available (i.e. military terminal leave starts on X day).

As far as preparation, I'm working on my ATP now since I know that has to happen before I can start a FedEx profile, and I've seen the gouge on interview and sim prep (Emerald Coast appears to be a no-brainer).

Just throwing out stuff here-comments and recommendations welcome.