I flew in Europe for a while as an exchange pilot in the military. I will say that the conceit spread to the military pilots as well. I do believe that they are forced through more rigorous ground schooling with a less structured program (we are more spoon fed and focused with the material, they work a little harder to get through the books). Our licensing process seems to be easier, and we have the mentality that if it's in a chart, we shouldn't have to commit it to memory. As far as stick and rudder goes, I found that we have a little more experience since flight hours are easily attainable here.. it's a wash in the end and one group is no better than the other.. Just a different approach or mindset towards achieving the outcome. I could see a differences test or course before being granted European licenses.. nothing like what they have in place now... That's just too painful.