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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/how should i go about trying to become a fighter pilot
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Question
hello,
I am a freshman in high school and find myself often daydreaming about flying mach 2.0 going through manuvers. Only since last year have i realized that this is what i really want to do with my life. Unfortunately, I have no clue on how do achieve this goal. I am currently working on my private pilots licens. I have nearly 20 hours in a cessna and recently recieved time in a stearman(taildragger). After highschool i am planning on applying to the United States Air Force Academy. When i turn 16, my birthday present, instead of a car is going to be parachuting for the first time. After these events though (parachuting, and U.S.A.F.A.) I have no clue what to do or how to begin the process of becoming a fighter pilot. If you could please assist me in anything i can do right now to help myself as well as later in life. I thank you for you time and any help provided.
Thank you,
Bo Merritt
Bo:
It sounds like you are well on your way to getting what you want! I'd suggest taking as many higher level math and science courses as you can. Also, the service academies not only look at academics, but outside school activities as well, such as sports, community service (such as the Boy Scouts, etc) and clubs you belong to. So, it's a good idea to get into those as well. The process itself won't really begin until after you are in the Academy, or the military; but those are the things you can do to help yourself. Sounds like you are off to a great start, and good luck!
Sgt G
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Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
Questions relating to US Marine Corps; rank, awards, uniforms, career choices. I can also help people spot and expose fakes (people pretending to be Marines or have awards they didn`t earn). Considering the Marines as a career? Or another branch, like the Air National Guard? Drop me a line. HOWever..know that I am NOT a recruiter. I can offer my expert opinion and advice, but can't (and won't) over rule what a recruiter says, they are the 'on duty' expert.
Experience
Infantry Rifleman, MOS 0311: 3 years. Marine Barracks Security (Marine Barracks, Annapolis, Maryland(not Embassy Duty): 3 years. Parachutist: MOS 9962: Got my wings in August of 1984.
Intelligence Specialist: MOS 0231 10 years working as an Intelligence Analyst with a Fixed Wing Fighter Squadron, Force Service Support Group, and at Headquarters, Marine Corps. Field Radio Operator: MOS 2531. Served as a Platoon Sergeant in a Communications Platoon assigned to MEU Service Support Group 24 (Special Operations Capable). Did a hitch in the Army reserves as an 11B (Infantryman), 3 years. Finished out my career in the Air National Guard as a BioEnvironmental Engineer MOS 4B3X1, did that for a few years.
I"ve been collecting and selling Marine Corps and other military uniforms, medals, and field gear since I was 8 years old.
Organizations
United States Marine Corps Logistical Company.
Publications
I was an Editorial writer for Marine Corps Times from 1998-2000.
Education/Credentials
Extensive library of research materials relating to uniforms, medals, and equipment of the military and the Marine Corps. 22 College credits, Community College of the Air Force. Certified Historical Interpreter.
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Kosovo Campaign Medal w/1 star
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 4 stars.
Numerous other unit awards.
I was on duty on 9/11 at HQMC, near the Pentagon, and responded to that location to try and lend a hand if needed...
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United States Marine Corps Historical Company, Guardian Security and Investigations, lead Investigator for 'Stolen Valor' cases.
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