How Did I Become a Fighter Pilot? 

Hey this comment is a little late and you probably won't see it. But where can I find yout books at?

wanted to be a fighter pilot as far back as I can remember - went to college to be able to go to USAF pilot school - after graduation went to Laughlin AFB, TX for pilot school - graduated near the top of my class and got - good news - a fighter slot - bad news - backseat F-4 - oh well - after F-4 RTU went to Nam - were after 53 missions got shot down - busted up pretty bad - but they put me back together in 6 months then went off to front seat F-4 RTU - two more tours in Nam - have over 2800 hrs in the F-4 - great jet and war bird - after a number of assignments was checked out in the F-16 - have over 900 hrs in the Viper - 26 years in the AF flying the best fighters in the world - one lucky SOB - was it hard - you bet - was it worth it ABSOLUTELY!

I'm a HS. Math teacher here in L. A. and I recently had a student who had his heart set on going to the Air Force Academy. He had been in the Civil Air Patrol, was working on his pilots license, his English teacher was helping him with his application essay, and I was helping him get his Algebra & Pre Calc scores up to where they needed to be. Well, his congregational apt. didn't come through, and he was gutted. Fortunately, I had found your channel, and told him about it. He found your journey to be an inspiration that helped him to hang in there. He tried for the Academy again the following year, and didn't get in. So, I reminded him of your road to the fast jets. I knew he was gonna be okay when I repeated your montra, " make them tell you no." and he, answered, " they're already pretty good at that" He's on his way to Vance AFB for initial flight training sometime later this spring. thanks, Mover! Clark(the Piper "Traumahawk" driver)

Flew F-16, F/A-18, T-38, T-6, 737... nothing special, "average" guy. LOL. Rather close to legendary.

I believe this might just be the most informative and raw RU-vid video on how to become a fighter pilot . Giving us a idea of the challenges that come to gain a spot to fly. Thank you. This video was very inspiring for us aspiring fighter pilots.

Ok back when I enlisted in the Air Force, 1982. They wouldn't even discuss a waver. I had the same vision problem as you did. I was 7 years old when I seen my first Air Force commercial on tv. When I seen I turned and looked at my Grandfather and told him that is what I wanted to be when grew up. He kind of gave me a look that said ok this shouldn't last long with his attention span. I graduated high school at 17 and enlisted in the Air Force under the delayed enlistment program. I had no idea that walking into the recruiters office and speaking to the recruiter there that just being a high school graduate was going to be enough to be a fighter pilot. After talking with the recruiter he explained about the asvab test. I know I don't have that spelled right. Then he explained that I would have to go through a background check, physical etc etc. He said that first thing would be to take that test then go from there. So he told me the next test date and I showed up and took it. A few days later my phone is ringing off the hook. Not just from AF recruiter but the other branches of the service as well. I was only interested in one. So, he had me come to the recruiting office and we discussed that test. He said because of my scores I could pretty much name my preference for an MOS. He then told me that since I wanted to be a fighter pilot next step was going to MEPS. Like you all was going well until the eye exam. After the exam or during it, I don't remember exactly is when the doc told me there was no way I would ever be a fighter pilot. I had very bad stigmatism in my right eye. My depth perception was to say the least screwed. I being all of 17 was crushed. Back in 1982 they didn't have corrective surgery for this. You didn't wear glasses and fly fighter planes. I left that MEPS station looking like I lost my best friend. About a week later my recruiter calls me and says you still interested in being in the Air Force? He felt bad for me as well. I told him give me a few more days to think things over and I would get back to him. I enlisted anyway. I asked him when I next spoke to him what positions would get me close to fighters. He listed off a few. Crew chief, fuel specialist, etc. At that time for some reason the Air Force especially (S.A.C.) was in desperate need of fuel specialists. He told me that SAC was not home to fighters though. I asked him what SAC was home to? He told me B-52 bombers and KC-135's. I had no idea what either one looked like. So that is what I ended up as. Fuel Specialist for SAC. What he neglected to tell me was that SAC bases are all located in the extreme northern parts of the US. I go through basic then on to tech school at Chanute AFB. I graduate top of my class. I was given my orders right after graduation. 321st Supply/POL Grand Forks AFB North Dakota. I was scratching my head and thinking where in the hell is that at. My instructor just laughs at me and says I hope you like cold. I was born and raised in Kansas. The winters there are terrible. I soon found out that Kansas winters are mild compared to that frozen waste land of Grand Forks AFB. The city of Grand Forks, North Dakota is actually split in half by the Minnesota/ North Dakota border. The Minnesota side of it is called East Grand Forks. If you head west out of Grand Forks, ND and drive 20 miles you will find the AFB. After my first winter there I wanted to return to my recruiter and slap the chit out of him till I felt better. I like to froze my butt off there. There is nothing to stop the wind when it starts blowing, no hills, no trees, just flat. A blizzard hit the base that first year I was there. When it got cranked up with winds over the 50 mph the temp dropped to -101 F. I do not regret enlisting though I learned a lot of things. I will not go back there for any reason. I got to where the fighter planes didn't matter much to me any more. Those B.U.F.F.'s hooked me the first time I was standing on the flight line and seen one take off. It is sad that there are only 300 of them left in service today. They are totally awesome to see take off and land. Sorry this was so long but after hearing your story I thought to myself at least things had changed by the time you applied for it. Plus you had contacts and people that helped you achieve your dream. My hats off to you pilot.

Is making officer pay, has published books, and getting paid from RU-vid! My hero.

May Mrs. Lemoine rest in peace.

THERE IS NOTHING AVERAGE ABOUT YOU FLYING AN F-16!!!! SO COOL Awesome story brother. You should talk at high schools to teach kids its possible.

You have probably the most unorthodox pilot career path I've ever heard of! Good on you for not quitting!

Mover great video. I got out of the Air Force as a jet mechanic and became a government contract pilot and movie stunt pilot. I flew for 20th Century Fox, did the movie Tora-Tora-Tora. Flew for the Atomic Energy Commission blowing up atomic bombs in Area 51 Nevada, Fire Bomber pilot flying a B-17. Over 20,000 hours of flying fun. Now at the young age of 78 I'm starting a resort in Arizona for pilot, "THE HIDE OUT" so that we all can pass our flight medicals. Thanks a for sharing your stories...

CW, I was bored and luckily ran across your video. As a former heavy pilot (B-52's), I was very impressed with your attitude and mannerism. I hope young "want to be aviators" take note never to give up (your story was a true testimony to that fact). As you pointed out, an aviation career has many pivotal moments that truly test your desire in becoming a pilot. Although it is well worth it. I am nearing the end of my flying career and my only regret is the fact that it is almost over. I have had over 45 years doing the best job in the world (flying civilian, military, and airlines). The opportunities are amazing for any young aviator who wishes to take on the challenge of making aviation their career. I see you and I work for the same airline, maybe I might see you at the school house before I depart for the last time. If not, GOOD LUCK and THANK YOU for taking the time posting your comments for all to see. JLF

You have taught us that never give up for a goal you wanna achieve. Not necessarily being a pilot. But anything in life you put your mind to and persevere, you can achieve it and god will be by your side. Thank you for inspiring us.

Wow man, how crazy, my future plans are becoming a pilot at the Air Force, i play a lot of simulators and my mom passed away when i was 12 too... I feel you. I admire you

All my life I have dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot for the air force or navy, but I have always had confidence issues when it comes to my physical condition. Every time I mention this dream to someone whether they have prior experience in the field or not usually end up telling me I'm never going to make it due to my eyesight, weight, and height, but people like you give me hope. All the odds were stacked against you and you still managed to find a squadron who not only accepted you, but welcomed you into their family despite the bumpy ride it took to get there. Thank you for being one of my inspirations!

You are the person that I think of when I hear “never give up” it’s the best feeling in the world when these people say that “you won’t make it far” and you prove them wrong. I will utilize this video to keep me motivated in pursuing my dream to become a commercial pilot.

Very much appreciated hearing your story young man. We were sorry to hear of your and your brother losing your Mother at such a young age but it sounds as if you had a great Dad to help you boys get through those years. Thank you for sharing the struggles you went through to accomplish your dream of becoming a military fighter jet pilot. Best wishes for your future and Thank you for your service.

Super inspiring story! I was a flight instructor at the regional airport in cold lake Alberta and met many aspiring Air Force Pilots. Not an easy path, but with enough dedication and hard work, everything is possible! Thanks for sharing your story👍🏻

I just watched this with my 5-year old son, who wants to become a fighter pilot. That an awesome and inspiring story! We love how you persevered despite the many obstacles that came your way. Good example for all the kids out there (and adults too)

Very reassuring to young pilots like myself. It’s really discouraging when a lot of people say you “can’t” do something or it’s “nearly impossible” or “very difficult” to achieve any sort of career as a pilot. I’m going the civilian route and that’s essentially what I here every time I tell someone my story. To hear your story reassures me that just because something is difficult to achieve, or because it’s uncommon, doesn’t make it impossible if you stick to it and really love what you want to do. Shout out to the men and women at Luke! Thanks for your service!

Wow, same book of life but my experience was just a few years ahead of you. I remember the eye examination clearly and what a blow. All is well that ends well right? Joined the ANG and served as an Avionics Specialist on the F16. Figured if I couldn't fly them I'd be the best I could at working on them. Earned some recognition, that led to an incentive flight. I feel blessed. Twenty years later, every time I think about I get as happy as the day I flew. Ultimately I earned my private pilot license and still love and have passion for everything related to flying. Great video man, thank you for sharing.

The candor and the humility are inspiring.

I need to say that growing up like you, I've had a huge interest in aviation and becoming a fighter pilot. I snuffed that dream for racing cars actually back in like 4th grade and have been working towards becoming a racing driver, needless to say I have been debating putting that on hold to pursue becoming a pilot. It was nice to hear someone talk about their journey to become one, thanks so much for sharing!

Love this gentleman. He is so down to earth its amazing. Something all of us men should look up to.

"Nothing special!" Mover, that's an incredible story of perseverance. There's a reason why guys like you make it and so many don't. You just wouldn't give up. Whenever it looked like your journey might be over you found a way....the fact you are "just an average guy" makes it relatable. Thanks for sharing!!!

Thank you SO MUCH for this video, you are so specific and detailed in telling your story, it's truly amazing. Thank you for sharing it with us, it definitely has cleared my view of what I need to do in order to accomplish this goal and succeed. I'm 17 , shipping out to Air Force Basic Training in 14 days as Security Forces, but I'll do my best at cross training to an AFSC related to aircraft. Currently getting in all the information of applying to the USAFA so I can become a pilot like you! . Thank you for inspiring me and many others to strive for their dreams. :)

“Son, never ask a pilot if he a fighter pilot, if he is, he would have already told you, if he’s not, you’ll only embarrass him.” You are very humble, certainly not average. Your mother would be exceptional proud. Thank you for your service!

Man, you're awesome! It sounds like you've had quite the journey. I wish you many more years doing what you love!

I just want to say....your mom would be so damn proud of you. The perseverance you have shown to become what you have is truly admirable. I admire your tenacity to not let your dream die off. You sir are a good man, and I hope things continue to go how you want them to.

I really enjoyed your video. I went to Vance for UPT also, Class 83-08, and after 8 years active duty fly 777s now for AA. Your account brought back lots of memories of how it all began and my own journey. (I probably would have been considered class mediocritorian, and not top-stick though). “Cooperate and graduate”. Famous words, which I carry with me in my airline career now. Best wishes.

An amazing guy that is honest and real. This is extremely motivating.

somehow I just stumbled across your channel. I'm a single father, raising my two daughters, after losing their mother. To see how driven you are, and how you never gave up on your passions, makes me hopeful for my daughters. I like to think Im a decent father, and that my girls are happy, but you just never know. All a father wants is for his kids to grow up and live happy, healthy lives. Moreover, if they can make a career out of doing exactly what it is that they love to do, I just don't know how I could ask for anything more. I'm sure your father is incredibly proud of you. As well as your mother. Thank you sir, for giving me real hope for my children's futures.

"How did end up in the Army and Infantry?" A series of bad decisions and regrettable sexual escapades. Go fly, kids.

My father passed away when I was 12 and I have always wanted to be a pilot for as long as I can remember. Your story inspired me to really try and turn my dreams into reality

Just brilliant !! You just showed how an average person can become something.....thank you very much !!

I’m not even a military veteran (one of my life regrets) but “Mover Ruins Movies” is the best thing on the internet 😂 along with everything else you do. I just found you recently and I’m all in. Listened to your life story, all of your accomplishments, and the things you do, and it makes me take a look at myself and realize unfortunately for me, that human beings are just not manufactured the same way. Awesome channel.

Thank you for this video! I just started my freshman year of college for Aviation, when I graduate I'll have my PPL, Instrument rating, and possibly a commercial rating (although I don't want to fly commercial, it's a requirement). After college I plan on attending Navy OCS to achieve my lifelong DREAM of becoming a Naval Aviator! I want it more than anything, and this video is really inspiring!

Thanks for telling your story! I love stories of people that preserver...

Cool video. Great to hear how well networking worked for you. I personally am hoping to become an Army National Guard aviation officer. Planning on enlisting in Army National Guard aviation with ROTC in grad school.

Congratulations and thank you for your service! Enjoyed hearing your story.

Hard work , good attitude , all the right choices at the right time, a little luck and BAM you made it. Good job! Inspirational!

C.W., your video should be required viewing for high school seniors to educate them on the no limit opportunities in aviation. Along with the Navy Seal movie Act of Valor, you provide a real world, "average guy" road map to a leading edge opportunity. Thank you for sharing your experiences and helping to inspire high school students looking for the ultimate challenge. Wheels up on adventure!!!

new subscriber from Canada here, love jets always have, dad did some flying when i was younger, thx for sharing your stories, interesting indeed, cheers and best of luck

Great story and awesome to hear how you never gave up. Been in the Army for 6 years and from day one I knew I wanted to be a Warrant Officer Rotary Wing Aviator. Got selected last year and finally leave to start my career next month. Your story is great motivation to never quit!

I have 4 students in AHGS AFJROTC at my high school that will be watching this video. Thank you for making it!!! Hoorah!

The AFOQT is no joke. I'm studying Aerospace Engineering to get my PhD to become an astronaut and becoming a fighter pilot has always been a dream of mine. I will get there and I think videos like this will inspire more people to become fighter pilots. Keep up the great work!

Dood! This is the first time I've seen your channel, but I'm inspired, and I can relate. Similar story. We're about the same age. I got my PPL in highschool, went to Embry Riddle on an AFROTC scholarship, but my eyes are way worse than yours, so I got a Nav slot. I got Commercial, Multi, and Instrument before I graduated and commissioned. I was a Herk Nav for 3 years and volunteered for drones. Now I'm an Evaluator Pilot in the MQ-9, looking at going reserves and being a dirty contractor. Point is, I decided at a very early age that I was gonna fly for a living and found a path that worked. I'm working on CFI now, because I love sharing aviation. Keep posting aviation videos.

Man your videos help so much. Thorough explanations and u tell us what it takes. Thank you.

Wow man what a journey. I jumped through so many hoops as well to become a firefighter, it amazing when you figure out what you wanna do and don’t let anyone stop you. I’m sorry you lost your mother so young, man. I’m sure she looks down and is proud. Stay safe thanks for sharing.

Young polish lad here, not even out of primary (i'm on my last year) .I've been watching your channel since the pandemic started and i have to say this is one of the best ex fighter pilot channels on this platform. Where i live, vipers constantly dogfight, atleast 2 times a day. In 7th grade i met a retired officer, which i told him about my plans to join the Air Force when i grow up, unfortunately he tragically passed this summer in an airplane accident not too far from here.He died doing what he loved.His support gave me a massive motivational boost. Nevertheless after that i developed a love for simming (especially the viper in DCS), i hope to become a F-16 pilot in the Polish Air Force one day, even tho i'm pretty bad at maths i dont think it's much of a problem since i've heard only basic math skills and trigonometry and required to be a fighter pilot (the requirements may be different in the US than in Poland, but i hope its the same).I believe that i have a pretty good chance to become one since english is the main requirement to become a pilot in the PAF, i've still got alot ahead of me and hope that i fulfill my dreams.

thanks for your story, love the flying sequences.....

Thank you for sharing your story. Very inspirational, highlighting the importance of hard work, determination, and following your dreams. Enjoyed the flight footage at the end. (Well edited, great soundtrack!)

Thank you for your service. Your persistence opened many closed doors.

Great story ! I'd love to get a ride in a fighter jets. I also fell in love with top gun as a kid. The F 14 was & still is my favorite fighter plane.

“Average guy” is exactly what the world needs. Thanks a lot for the video! :)

Great Story, thank you for sharing. Had I known and witnessed your life as a young man, I would followed your footsteps to the best of my ability. Your Tenacity won the Day! I too wanted to be a pilot but started wearing glasses at age 12 for astigmatism as well. After my parents divorced I squeaked my way through High School and Enlisted into the Air Force as a Crew Chief and worked T-38s, F-5s, T-37s, OV-10s. After a tour as a MTI at Lackland, I joined the AF Reserve on -C-130s at Kelly AFB. I loved it! I flew a lot as a Crew Chief and later became a Flight Engineer up at Peterson AFB. Ultimately I did 33 years in the AirForce, retired as a Chief and stayed on in CS as a GS12 Maintenance Manager in AETC.

You sir are a lesson in persistence. "Make them tell you no" is one of the greatest lessons in life.

Awesome story man. I'm currently an enlisted member of the Air Force wishing I took the route you did. I've always wanted to be a pilot just like my grandfather and uncle were, but after getting accepted to college I figured out I didn't have anywhere near the amount of money needed to get a degree. So I chose to enlist considering it was too late in my high school career to apply to the academy. I thought that I could get my degree while serving relatively quickly but I quickly found out that isn't the case. I will have at least an associates degree by the time my contract ends at which point I'll be 23. Then 2 more years of school full time to earn my bachelors degree making me 25 before I can start my transition back into the military. I've been worried that I wouldn't be dedicated enough to stick to a strict schedule but your story is so inspiring that I feel like even though this route might be a bit convoluted, I can make it happen. Hard work and a little dedication can do wonders. Thank you

Thanks for the story man, I’m actually with the air guard down in belle chase as enlisted in college right now finishing private pilot. I’ve been weighting whether to go for pilot slots or commercial out of college. Still got 3 years to decided but thanks for the information.

*I was just talking to a recruiter this week about joining Air Natl Guard and trying to get Crew Chief. Your story was really interesting, real, and I completely agree with helping others so we all can succeed, and also love what you said about knowing something well is only if you can teach it to others.* great story!!

Hey Mover, I can appreciate your path. I also lost my mom to an aneurysm. It pushed me to pursue becoming a fighter pilot. Going into my senior year of college, I worked on getting my act together, focus on improving my study habits, and to start my flight training. Despite failing the math portion on the AFOQT the first attempt, I passed it on the second attempt. Five months later I got selected for the USAF a few years back, but got DNIF'd due to vision during the flight physical. I just got LASIK and am back in the fight to get an SNA slot in the Navy or a slot in the guard. Hoping to get some good news soon. While I've been told by many people that it will never happen, your story gives me further motivation to keep pushing and not taking "No" for an answer. Thank you for sharing

racecars and fighter jets go hand in hand, eh?

I am a junior in Highschool right now and I am going to apply for the Air Force Academy this upcoming March. It has been my dream since I was 5/6 to fly something for the AF no matter what. My grandfather and godfather were both in the AF and I have always looked up to them on everything I do. HOpefully I will be accepted into the academy and get to fulfill my dream

I just found your channel today. Great channel I love military youtube videos. I know that you are now an airline pilot. Thank for your military service. I look forward to reading your books.

What a terrific story of perseverance. THANKS for sharing this. LOVE your stuff -- keep up the good work, and THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

as someone who is on his way to become a fighter pilot as well(hopefully, one day), I like hearing everyone's story. It shows that nobody had it easy, there are ups and downs but you have to be really persistent and foremost a fighter.

I’m a senior in college, I’m addicted to the adrenaline rush of race cars. I really wanna become an air force pilot, only thing keeping back from even trying to apply is the fact that i wear glasses (they do correct my vision to 20/20)

Great story, appreciate the share. I wish I had seen this when I was 20. Our stories share a lot of similarities. Absolutely love the F16 and quit dreaming of being a fighter pilot because of the eyesight myth. The day I got my license during FAA checkride I followed F16s practicing (185th Fighter Wing out of SUX, now refuellers) and wished it were me. Keep the episodes coming, now 34 the dream has past but still love your stories. Take me up in your second seat!!

Good on you, sir. A testament to your determination. Big fan of your channel. After 20 years in the Infantry, I always enjoyed shooting the breeze with aviators and our JTAC's. Pursuing the Army's Warrant Office Program was out of the question for me. Too many deployments, training cycles, and hell, I loved the Infantry but have always been an aviation aficionado my entire life and grew up around Naval Aviation (because of my Dad). If anything this video really sheds some light on what young pups, who want to pursue a career in military aviation, can do. Keep doing good things, sir.

My goodness...Janes flight sim!!!!😂😂😂 I use to play that for hours!!!

23 year old college grad with 80 Cesna 172 hours similar to your story. Tried to get into ROTC my junior year and knew my chances of getting what I wanted wasn't guaranteed. Also applied to the Academy in 2013 but didn't make it in. My vision is pretty poor. Took my TBAS last Tuesday and Taking my AFOQT on Monday at Maxwell AFB. This video is really inspiring. Thank you.

Thank you for your service and for sharing a great story. I've always been fascinated by military aircraft, and it's fun to hear from somebody who did it.

This is insanely motivating! Definitely the textbook story of staying prepared and persistent. Thanks for sharing your story man. Very cool! I had the privilege to work at the Air Force Academy for several years in the athletic department, so I certainly have a soft spot for USAFA. Glad it worked out for you man!

Very inspiring...

I like how you discussed how it's a lot about teamwork. So many people see things as a competition and those people usually get knocked out.

I like your humility and your encouragement for any young man who wants to be a fighter pilot.

Right now I'm in training to become an A-10 crew chief for my unit (122nd FW blacksnakes) I've dreamed of flying since I was six and I'm glad I stumbled across this video, gives me hope.

C.W. I wish I would have seen this a few years ago, in 2012 I had decided to join the navy and wanted to work on aircraft while I went to school hopefully going to ots and become a pilot, but at meps I had the same issue with those dots i have a mechanical issue with my eyes but I do have 20/20 vision but they said I wouldn't be allowed to be around aircraft or be on a flight deck( I work as a fueler at an airport now so I guess they were wrong), so I did sign a contract for GSM went back started DEP and about two weeks in decided to back out it didn't feel right if I couldn't be near aircraft I didn't want to do it so I backed out drop out of college and just kinda been going from job to job feeling like I've missed my calling, then I stumbled across this and feel like I shouldn't have given up and I need to figure out my way in to do what I've always wanted to do since I was 6yo, so thank you for the inspiration I just hope I'm not too late now as I'm 25 going on 26 with one semester of college.

Awesome video. It's a real story of persistence and overcoming obstacles in any way you can.

Thank you for sharing your story. I find it interesting to learn how folks achieve their career goals. You wanted it, didn’t take No for an answer and made your goal! Congratulations to you!

Also since you seem to love sims so much have you heard of DCS (Digital Combat Simulator). The A10C and F18C are comparable to actual military sims in terms of accuracy lol

I’m on my way to SERE next week then UPT in October. Any advice is appreciated!

Great story and well told. I had a similar experience with astigmatism so was never going to be accepted into the New Zealand Air Force. But went on to get lots of great experience in GA aircraft including tail dragger ratings, aerobatics endorsements and back country flying on the North Slope of the Brooks Range (Alaska) in Cubs and 206's. Thank you for your humility and honesty ! Pete

Inspiring story Mover, thanks for sharing your journey with us. You're honesty and "make 'em tell you no" attitude are an awesome example to young pilots to be and old farts like me. Thanks for your channel!

I am 16 and also live in Lousiana, I have a goal of becoming an air force fighter pilot but don't think I have the physical ability to become one. But you have given me SO much confidence and I thank you for that :).

Best job in the world

I enjoyed watching this video. You are a fantastic person with a great attitude. Thank you for your service!

Thanks for sharing your story man. You worked hard for it and earned your way in. Awesome tale!

Had you heard of Falcon 4 And it's BMS mod? i really recommend it, But it is a F-16 simulator tho there's a f-18 too

You are the first person I’ve seen with the same last name!

Stumbled across your video. Really enjoyed it! Great video and enjoyed hearing how you persevered. Looking forward to more of your videos.

You are special. Thanks for all of what you do.

Nice story man! I have an uncle that was a naval aviator for 15 years. He wanted to be a top gun pilot so bad, but he didn't have what it takes sadly. Surprisingly, he went in with a BA in Finance, went through OCS, then straight to flight school. I'm having issues figuring out which route to take, either ROTC after getting my AS, or OCS route once I get my BS (free college tuition from hazelwood). I'm already in community college, 19, and I know for a fact that I want to be a naval aviator and shoot for the best, have any suggestions for someone like myself? I have no knowledge on how to fly, but from what I've heard, the military is willing to train you from the bottom up as long as you show promising potential.

It is my dream to be a fighter pilot, at 14 I’m already a member of the air cadets and really wanna fly in the jets

Never to late to add a comment. I am from Australia and enjoy the way you do videos. Thank you for your story. Truely inspirational

Good stuff, CW! Inspiring to the youth! Strife for personal excellence was exhibited. God's blessings on ya. So sorry to hear about your Mom. Keep up the good work, sir!

Just turned 15 recently, My goal in life is to become a fighter pilot and to go to the Air Force Academy. I loved this video and how you told your success story, any tips for a young lad?

Im only 12 and im planing on being a F22 rapter fighter pilot or an F18 or F16 or A10 pilot its my dream

I'm watching this today, and its absolutely stunning because I live in homestead, and we had an airshow this week. The Makos looks like my future unit, i do wear glasses, and i still have faith because some pilots really talked me in. I really needed this video, thanks.

Great story of perseverance and commitment. Kudos. Former 33FW/59FS Eagle Keeper here. Aim High!