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Introduce Yourself
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Howdy,
Rowan here. Currently, I’m working as a veterinarian in Petaluma, CA. Exotics and small animal with occasional volunteering with wild birds. I have a great job, but the truth is I’ve always dreamed of serving in the military. However, I chose to pursue helping animals. A lot of my experience is in wildlife conservation and the like. I find myself with that desire to serve still intact.
Talked to an old buddy who flys F-16s in active duty and it clicked. I have to try and fly fighters. I’m an old man by Air Force standards, 30 yo. I know it hurts my chances, but I love a good challenge and don’t mind being an underdog.
Took the afoqt. 99 on the pilot composite, and 95 on the CSO. Taking the TBAS in 2 weeks. 14 hours into my PPL. I’m going to apply for fighters first. I love the wide range of missions the F35 can fly. I think the 154th wing’s location will be critical due to its proximity to China and who doesn’ want to fly the F22. And if the fighter squadrons don’t want an old man, I will gladly fly heavies or rotary. Just want to serve and defend my country, preferably while flying.
Thank you kindly,
Rowan
P.S. Or the sky warden. Looks amazing.
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@rowan-prown Thanks for sharing! Passion gets you a long way in this game. Age can definitely be a deterrent in some of these highly competitive UPT boards… However, I recommend reaching out to some units you’re interested in and seeing if they’d allow you to rush the squadron. There’s all kinds of material on rushing units on BogiDope… The bottom line is that getting out to these units for some face-to-face (if they’ll allow it) is crucial to upping your chances. Once you’re there you can share your story and they’ll let you know if they’d consider you for a UPT slot.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
-CHAOS
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Thanks for the advice! Will make sure to do that.
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Howdy, my name is Max. I have always wanted to be a military pilot like both my grandfathers. Instead, I went down the business path for a little while and now that I have my degree and some life experience, it’s time to follow that dream. I just turned 25, have a bachelor’s degree from UofSC, and am currently working on getting my PPL and scheduling the AFOQT. Recently moved back to Virginia to focus on flying/applying full time and have been making the most of the robust aerobatic flying community here by spending my weekends volunteering at the flying circus (and sometimes getting front seat time in one of the Stearmans).
I am determined to fly fighters and while I am open to myriad avenues to give myself the best chance at fulfilling that goal, I do have my sights set on going UPT for the guard. I’m also always open to gaining more insight / advice, and am extremely grateful for this community and the mind boggling amount of resources Bogidope has.
Blue skies!
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