Hey guys,

I'm going to see a Navy Recruiter soon for information about becoming an Aviation Officer, but I couldn't wait for them to call me back and wanted to see if you guys could offer me any guidance. I wrote back and forth with an Air Force Officer on here a couple of years ago; he told me that being an officer in the AF was not a flying job, as most of the job was paperwork and administrative-type duties. I expect pretty much the same as a Naval officer but then again, I don't know any officers, or retired officers, in the Navy.

I understand some squadrons may fly much more than others, maybe C130's fly more than F/A-18's, etc. I'd really love to be up in the air as much as possible no matter what type of aircraft. I don't really care much for rotors. Do I get a choice? Is the Navy the right choice? Naturally the Navy was what came to mind initially for me as my dad was a sailor.

I'm working on my bachelor's degree right now. I still have some time until I'm done.. I currently have my PPL + IR, started training for Commercial but ran out of money. Should I finish my Commercial SEL/MEL prior to signing up or would I just be wasting my money as the navy would be paying me to train? Right now I fly just to keep instrument current and if I have some extra money do a Commercial lesson or two. My meager salary at Continental as a ramp agent doesn't allow this very often.

Any sign-up bonuses going on right now?

Any preference for base? I understand it's "Atlantic or Pacific," then the Navy decides from there.

I'm 23 with no attachments. I'm in pretty good shape and wear very light prescription glasses (sometimes). I was going to follow the typical civilian route, CFI, go work for a regional (ha) and then one day come back to Continental, or whatever major, but being a military pilot seems like a better lifestyle than banging around in the regionals that have guys furloughed indefinitely.

I apologize for my ignorance and my questions if they're too basic. I'm just trying to get the facts and not buy everything the recruiter tells me.

Thanks guys, feel free to PM .. I'll post if I have any more questions.

Chris