They can't do that...Flickerball changed my life.

That's exactly what I did, scheduled my phys. prior to my interview. Why? Because I knew a guy in the unit, and he told me when their drill weekend was, and he told me, "Just show up, they'll give you a physical..." and they did. But you cannot do it on line.


You should call them, and ask for directions, and SHOW UP! On time, shoes shined, hair cut, and start asking questions of the people you meet there. They are good guys, they want to help you, but the don't do email, they do face to face. If you don't show up, you don't want it bad enough.

We were all young and dumb once, which is why we want to see some kid show up at the front gate asking questions. But do not for a minute think you can do it from your couch.

It's just like when a kid comes up to the cockpit. Who would turn them away? Nobody! No pilot would turn a kid away, regardless of how late we are going to push.

Bring them up! Here, sit in my seat, here's my hat! Hey Mom, you got a camera? Here, you sit over there; Now, everyone, SMILE!

Hey Mom, what's your phone number?

Yes, I said it...but she was hot, and single. and she laughed her head off. Never did get her number.

It's the same with the military, they want to help you, but you have to show up and ask. You cannot phone it in.

Find the phone number for Ops, call them, ask if you can come by and look around, ask when the next drill weekend is, ask about pilot slots, etc. and just show up and ask these guys. They all went down the same road, they will help you, but you have to show up and meet them, face to face.

Your dad has Guard buddies? They should be holding your hand showing you around the unit.

If you have contacts within the unit, use them. They could help you with many of your questions.

If you want to get into this unit, I suggest you ask some questions. The recruiter wants you to enlist. Is it necessary? My guess is that the vast majority of slots go to those that are already unit members. In fact, I'd be willing to bet that they don't even open up interviews to people on the street unless you are seriously connected (legacy or Congressman's son). If this is the case, you might want to find another unit, consider enlisting, or try the commercial route. From my experience, I've seen many a college graduate enlist to get a pilot slot. Also, it's usually best to find an operations position, possibly a loadmaster or another position where you get to meet the people that will interview you.

I'd also suggest making sure you can complete the physical. You wouldn't be the first that couldn't pass due to the stringent requirements (vision issues, abnormal EKG, etc).

Anyway, ask the questions up front. If they don't hire off the street, either enlist or move to plan B. Best of luck to you..