Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Life in UPT

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Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 7/21/2009


Question
I recently graduated college with a degree in marketing, and am applying for the next Air Force pilot board with the hopes of making it into OTS. I have a couple of questions that I would appreciate any help with.

1.I am applying for a pilot slot-is there a chance that the Rated Board would assign me to another rated position, such as Air Battle Manager?

2. What is life like during pilot training? I just got married and would like to know what to expect as far as how much time I can spend with my wife.

Thanks in advance...
                        Josh  

Answer
Josh,
Yes, you run that risk.  You could also be selected as a UAV operator or even a navigator.  Basically any rated position.

For a look at UPT life I'd recommend you consult the website:  http://www.baseops.net/militarypilot/upt_life.html

There is also a You Tube video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAaZnNC7T20

If you still have questions after consulting these, send me a follow-up with specific questions.

Good luck,
Colonel H  

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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MARK A. HOWELL

Expertise

All military questions, any Service. 30 years experience & two Ph.D.'s. 4 times Base Commander. Worked with Army, Navy, USMC, USCG and several foreign military units. Veteran of Kosovo, Bosnia, Macedonia, Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and 10 civil wars in Africa.

Experience

Air Force Colonel with 30 years experience. Air Force Base Commander 4 times. Highly decorated.

Organizations
Org of Am Historians, Wild West History Assoc., Disabled American Veterans - Life Member, Am Motorcyclist Assoc. - Life Member, North Am Hunt Club - Life Member, NWTF - Life Member

Publications
Numerous book reviews published in the Journal of American History. Two books submitted for publication.

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in military history, Columbus University (Summa Cum Laude) Ph.D. in history, Northfield University, London, England (Summa Cum Laude) Master of Arts degree in history, Marshall University, WV Bachelors degree, double-major in history and mathematics, Salem College, WV Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL

Awards and Honors
Legion of Merit Defense MSM MSM x 5 Joint Commendation Mdl AF Commendation Medal Army Commendation Mdl Joint Achievement Mdl AF Achievement Medal Outstanding Volunteer Mdl

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