Here's the deal... that's a super loaded question at any regional. A lot of folks have tried. For whatever reason, it didn't happen, and it's not necessarily because they lack the qualities of a good mainline pilot.

If you asked the question innocently, then fine, that's an honest mistake. You're clearly military, and some folks are going to take that question as you having "that military attitude." If you keep pushing back, then that image will be reinforced, correct or not.

If you asked the question to get under someone's skin, then that's not cool at all. That's a good way to isolate yourself, particularly if you carry that attitude to the line. Isolated is not an optimal state in a career where networking can go a long way.