Can I Transfer a Nomination?

USNA84
Wed, 12 Jan 2011 15:03:51 +0000

You can always call, but that ship has probably already sailed, to coin a phrase. Probably too late, in other words.

Ok, so I will say this to you regarding Naval Aviation. The choices in Naval Aviation are every bit as diverse as those in the Air Force. Jets, helos, props and land-based aircraft. I was a Naval Flight Officer and served with the Air Force as an instructor at the Navigator School from 90-93 out in Sacramento, California. So, if you’re thinking that the career opportunities as a pilot are better in the USAF, I would tell you that’s probably not the case. Both are pretty equal.

So, here’s my USNA “snob” disclaimer. I will also tell you this about the Air Force. It’s a service dominated by pilots. You may be medically qualified to be a pilot today, but in two or three years’ time, you may not. My dad was an Air Force officer. His words, “If you’re not a pilot in the Air Force, you’re not s**t.” He was a Navigator, BTW. A big part of the reason I did not apply to USAFA. I didn’t have 20/20 vision, so pilot (at that time) was not an option.

The Naval Academy offers probably the most diverse range of career choices of any of the big three SA’s. You like options, right? USNA has more options than you can shake a stick at. Pilot, NFO, SWO, Submarines, Marines, Special Forces.

Not sure about USAFA and reapplicants. I know USNA loves reapplicants. You need to take a “Plebe” curriculum, i.e. Calculus, Chemistry, foreign language, English, History, etc., and do well. You’ll significantly increase your chances if you do.

Sounds like you’re making your decision, but don’t give up on USNA just yet. Talk to some USNA grads who are pilots. I can get you in touch with some if you don’t know any. Drop me a PM.