Most military pilots (USAF), more than likely had some type of civlian training or privates license before going to UPT. In fact, today, it is required. When I went through UPT, it was valued but not required. Before my time, the cadets went through C-172 training.
Also, most military regulations mirror that of civlian regulations with some twists here and there. Sometimes Uncle Sam is more strict, sometimes the FAA is.
The reality is, most military guys who would be gunning for this certification would more than likely have additional civlian ratings.
-Fatty