I'm sure it's frustrating not getting the call you want but please put the broad brush back in the paint can. We've got plenty of military guys on their second or third airline thanks to furloughs from majors, companies like World, Gemini, ATA folding, and older guys from Eastern and Pan Am.

There's a pretty even mix of backgrounds in leadership positions at FedEx and within the group making hiring decisions. I don't know what "script" you're referring to but competition is what it is. For every guy that decided to leave the industry for a period of time for whatever reason, there are plenty more that didn't. If airline X has an issue with you making that choice, it's their playground/their rules. 5 years out of the cockpit is significant and if that's the only thing separating you and another candidate, you shouldn't be surprised he gets the nod.