[QUOTE=FmrFreightDog;1726083]

Almost everyone here has made their bones one way or another. Call me cranky, but the civ/mil dick measuring contests are just getting old.

FFD:

Reading the thread, I don't get the impression anyone's measuring anything. The former military and af guys (), are merely reminiscing about a significant milestone in our lives and careers.

As has been mentioned, the training was very structured and time restricted. The Air Force guys all started and finished as a class; the Navy/Marines, not so much. On the Navy side, we finished and got our 'Fleet' orders just before getting our wings. We didn't have a 'drop,' but the parties after wingings were GREAT! For the most part, they were celebrations and graduations. Life-long friends were made that you'd come across 'in the fleet', on a cross-country at the Miramar O-Club, or after getting hired at an airline. Sadly, we also lost friends... The point is, much of the what, where, how, and with whom was institutionalized. After each accomplishment, recognition, reward, and celebration occurred. It's a common thread... and it's ours.

Carry on...

DFW