Here's the way to go about it. You apply for them ALL, active duty, Reserves, Guard, whoever is accepting applications. If and when you have an offer, that's when you consider the best choice for you.

I went to AOCS with the Navy back in 1985, just a month after college graduation. Yes I know it's all different now, you need to talk to the pilot/Officer recruiters.

I'd look for a guaranteed slot into pilot training before you raise your hand, if you really want to be a pilot.

Just like an airline job, you don't just apply for one, it's all. Later on you get to decide where you go.

Wow, 6 years seems like a long time. For those fighter units with alert duties is it possible to bum?

Well if you sleep 12 hrs a day, it's only three...

We're talking proficiency in a fighter - it comes with the territory.

The days of "3 for 1s" are over, so the alert gig isn't as lucrative as it once was. It's possible to bum at any unit, although the alert wrinkle adds a few more opportunity. How long a pilot can make that work just depends on the availability of days and the individual"s situation (family, financial flexibility, etc.)

Retired AF pilot but did 2 tours flying with the Navy. My son is interested in military flying and my recommendation would be either Air National Guard or Coast Guard. The Coast Guard has a great aviation tradition and every station is a good one...

For those heavy drivers if you decided to bum what kind of average pay would you expect to make in one year? I saw this older post on baseops and it doesn't sound easy.

ANG Pilot lifestyle/Quality of Life - Air National Guard / Air Force Reserves - Baseops Forums

But this thread made it sound easy if you like being gone.

http://www.flyingsquadron.com/forums...rve-lifestyle/