Ox, not to speak for daldude, but from friends past, they enlisted in the unit they were interested in flying for. Both went on to pilot for that unit (Wish I had done the same thing). I echo the sentiment that the 500 hrs doen't mean much to the military. You gotta learn their way and break all your bad habits (and some of your good ones). Having at least your private pilots license will help in that you'll save them a few bucks. Best of luck to you.