Originally Posted by
PotatoChip
Spent some time talking with army recruiters about the Warrant Officer program today. It seems to be a decent program and I am considering putting through a packet. I am curious if anyone out there has gone through after flying commercially for a while first. I did a little thread search and found a couple useful, but wanted some up to date information.
Further, as per another thread, it seems many feel this is a bad time to be a helo pilot in the Army. No where to go, no PIC time etc. Anyone care to corroborate, or elaborate on that?
I currently have over 4500tt, , 1200pic and 430tpic, college degree, but I am furloughed with no recall in sight and zero opportunities outside of starting at a regional all over again, which quite frankly, is almost out of the question. I've regretted not serving in the past, and feel this might be my shot.
Anyone else go this route? Thanks.
-PC
I strongly second going to APTAP.org and reading for a while.
I am a Warrant Officer and I have really enjoyed the ride. In the Army, I have had the opportunity to fly Scout, Attack, Light Utility, and Light FW Turbo Props. I left Active duty because I was severely burnt out, wanted to start a family, and I wanted to use my airline pilot degree. I got my multi-turbine 'fix' in the regionals but I missed the camaraderie,sense of purpose, and RW NOE flying, so I joined the Army Guard. I was part time in the Guard flying scouts and flying CRJ's in the regionals for a while. I got MOB'd for a deployment and fell into a full time Guard gig and haven't looked back. The only thing I miss from the regional life is not having to take work home. RW is just way more fun, for me - KingAirs are fun too, dynamic environment -Every day is different, and the VIPs are genuinely appreciative of what we do for them. I also don't live 4-Day pairing to 4-Day pairing.
Army life also REALLY sucked some times too. Living in a tent for 9 months straight got old. It was bearable because I was in the middle of indian country ready to hunt bad guys and I had amazing people around me. The 'Team Work' aspect and accomplishments will stick with you for a life time. I have a bunch of great bar stories and am very proud that time. Nothing's free.
If you have any, any chance at becoming a military aviator in any service, I highly recommend it. It's a long road, but worth it. I believe that the other services treat their aviators better and respect them more. If there is any chance at other services, push on those doors and see what happens. I am not sorry in the least for my path, it's been a great ride and I've had the honor of serving with amazing people.
I highly recommend you research the role of the Warrant Officer Aviator within Army Aviation. A way to describe it: In the Army, an RLO (Regular Line Officer-2LT and above) is 12 inches wide and 1 inch deep, the Warrant is 1 inch wide and 12 deep. While the RLO will focus on the Leadership stuff (OER's,NCOER's, meetings, management stuff) You will specialize and 'Track' as an IP, Maintenance Test Pilot/Maint. Manager, TAC Ops (Mission Planner), or Aviation Safety Officer (everything from aviation risk mitigation to making sure PVT Snuffy doesn't drink and drive). As a junior Warrant (WOJG-Warrant Officer Junior Grade i.e. new guy that knows nothing) you will manage the fridge fund, CBRNE program, HAZMAT stuff, NVG's, Pubs etc. After you make PIC and then gain experience, you'll 'Track' and specialize.
As a Guard or Reserve Warrant, (In my experience) you'll probably not have any serious Additional Duties. Most come in, Fly, and go home. The full timers in the Guard do most of the stuff so the part timers (with other jobs) can focus on their primary job-flying.
I am rambling, so I'll stop here.
Bottom Line: If you really know what you're getting into, and still want it; Push on every door possible and take the Best/First door that opens.
Good Luck