Originally Posted by
guido15
I always envied the guard/reserve guys in UPT. (pilot training). But only those going to fighter units. They had guaranteed fighter slots. Well, as long as they could get the FAR qualification. Some of The others (not all by any means) who were locked into a heavy due to their guard/reserve slot came to regret it; Especially once they began training in the white rocket, the T38. the best advise I ever got was from a crusty old Colonel who said I could always fly a heavy at some put in my life, but I wouldn't always be able to fly a fighter--especially if I started out in a heavy. I am so grateful to have that fighter and military experience. Personally, I don't know how people say sane being in this business for 30-40 years. Take it for what it's worth and good luck.
A buddy convinced me to go fighters after reminding me that when I was growing up I never said, "When I grow up I wanna be an AWACS pilot."
This said, in 2013 I'd go Guard. Just be advised that that VIP transport mission could change to RPAs or lose airframes altogether at any moment. Talk to the guys at Barksdale, Ft Smith, etc.