I am a KC-135 Instructor Pilot with the ANG. I have been issued a MSD (Mandatory Separation Date) of 01Jan2010 due to not being selected for promotion to LtC. I have just over 24 years of total service and will have 20 years commissioned service this December. I am 46 years old.

I am a traditional guardsman (part timer). On top of that, I am a "Guard Bum." I do not have another job. I have made a career out of bumming. I have made application to all of the major airlines. My timing could not of been any worse. I got in too late on the FedEx hiring spree years ago and I had an interview with CAL cancelled last year when the fuel prices spiked.

I have been looking into this military recall. After some information gathering here is what I have. I have accrued just over 14.5 years of points. I cannot get in under the limited recall due to my MSD. But, they will let me apply for the retired recall. They are handing out 3 year tours. I can request an extension of 1 year after being recalled. So, with the 3 year tour, I am just under 18 years of service and santuary. The 1 year extension is not guaranteed. If I were denied the extension, I could end up 50 years old without a retirement (until 60) and in search of another job. I would have over 28 years of total service (not in points).

I love instructing. If I pursue the recall I am going to ask for a UPT instructor pilot job (probably in a T-6). This would also keep me out deploying. I have considered becoming a civilian instructor, but I do not think that I can get accumilate the pay that I need to get by. I have considered a job with a regional just to keep me flying and hope for a job with a major at some point.

We are very close to having our house paid off. We have 2 children and we are very settled in to our life. My mother lives just down the street and she is 81 years old. Her health is not the best.

I dread leaving for several years and leaving my mother alone. Although, she has told me to do what I need to do, I have trouble with the idea. I also have trouble with the idea of the possibility of needing to find another job when I am 50 years old.

So, the clock is ticking and I am not really sure which avenue to take. My options are becoming more limited. I would appreciate any advice, suggestions, or ideas.

Thanks.