Introduction
Hello everyone, I wanted to officially introduce myself to the community. I’ve been a member since late 2025, quietly gathering information from those with more experience and learning as much as I can to become the strongest applicant possible. I’m currently active‑duty Air Force, stationed at WPAFB, serving as a 1D7 COMM troop. I'm 27 years old (turning 28 this coming April). I’m a bit older than the average applicant, but I see that as motivation rather than a limitation. I’m enrolled at ERAU in Aeronautical Science, with about two years left before completing my degree.
During my time in service, I’ve been fortunate to reach some milestones: Airman of the Year 2026, BTZ 2026, and earning my Private Pilot certificate. My ultimate goal is fighters — I know age makes that path more challenging, but it’s a challenge I’m ready to take on. I took the AFOQT last November and plan to retake it later this year or early 2027.
While fighters are my dream, I’m open to any opportunity that gets me in the air. More than anything, I want to learn from the best, contribute to a community that shares my passion for aviation, and push myself to grow both professionally and personally.
It's a pleasure to be here to connect with others; I look forward to learning from you all and, hopefully, giving back along the way.
Thank You
V/R
SrA Panzardi
Hey SrA Panzardi,
Welcome! Also at WPAFB on the Reserve side 445 AES. Best of luck to you! Anywhere in particular you're looking?
V/r,
Funke
funke.christopher@gmail.com Much appreciated, good to see someone else here in Ohio. If I'm being honest, I haven't been actively looking just yet, considering I have some time before I even finish my degree, let alone apply for OTS. I briefly visited the 51st FW while in Korea, but again I haven't actually been looking just yet. I'm open to anything, but the dream is 16s
Gh0st Same here! They have fighters over in Indiana as I recall. I want to say over in Kentucky as well. Being Active not sure how much the location is a factor but best of luck all the same. Where did you do your PPL?
funke.christopher@gmail.com Locations not much of a factor for me; I'm open. I acquired my Private at Moraine Air Park at I73-small part 61 school, only 30 minutes from base; great people/ community. If you don't already have your private, I highly recommend.
Gh0st Understood. I'll be doing mine at Greene. Are you primarily fighters or open to heavies?
funke.christopher@gmail.com Awesome! I flew there a couple of times. A buddy of mine has his Mooney Maintained there. I primarily want fighters, but I know my age can be a challenge, so I've considered heavies as well.
Gh0st Nice! Your age is fine. I had a fella I know from my E days who commissioned at 37, though he was a load master there for about 2+ years.
Thanks for introducing yourself to the community. It's an exciting journey and sounds like you have a solid plan to make this dream a reality. Let us know how we can help!
Smax
Thanks for sharing! I really like how you have outlined your goals and are learning from others about their strategies!
This is a very small community. The more contacts you know, the more opportunities as well as friendships will be developed.
Best if luck! Let us know how we can help!
D.J.
