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Comment by CheriH on October 18, 2023 at 6:02pm

Glenni, it's my understanding that test pilot stints are a shore tour following the first squadron tour.  At least it was for jets.  They get to submit their choices; ranked; and then they see what happens. My DS had test pilot for his 2nd choice, but got his 1st which was Topgun.  I know helos are managed differently; so I don't know for sure.  I hope he gets his choice!

Comment by Glenni on October 18, 2023 at 11:20am

That was really helpful for me too. Thank you so much. 
My son just finished primary. He had high scores, but really wanted helos, and that’s what he got. He is happy to be staying in Milton for another 9 months or so. He was an aerospace engineering major and ultimately wants to become a test pilot. Does anyone have an aviator who has gone that route?

Comment by NicoleH on October 18, 2023 at 7:23am

Thank you, CheriH and Andy'sMom.  So helpful.

Comment by CheriH on October 17, 2023 at 7:27pm

NicoleH - I agree with Andy'sMom.  After all his training (whatever platform he gets) they are assigned to a squadron for a flying tour(2-3 years).  After that, they get a shore tour, usually from 2-3 years; that is non-deployable.  Usually in a training squadron of some sort.  Then back to the fleet for a flying/deployable tour, then another shore tour.  My DS is also in jets; he has not had a non-flying tour yet. He has been in 12 years. He has made it to Department Head; and his next shore tour may not be a flying one; they do like them to get some other experience at that stage.  But my understanding is that as much money as they put into training a pilot, they need to keep them flying or training other pilots.  There are many different options; some he will have a say in; some he won't.  I hope that helps.  

Comment by Andy'sMom on October 17, 2023 at 7:16pm

NicoleH - it really all depends on what platform he gets as the training varies for each one.  Once he gets his wings he will need to train in his selection.  My DS is in jets.  He trained an additional 14 months before he was patched into a squadron.  After a deployment, they were supposed to get a land job, usually training at the advanced level, but things are always fluid in the Navy.

Comment by NicoleH on October 17, 2023 at 7:30am

Moms,  I need some input on the aviator career path in the navy.  My son is at OCS and is hearing that after Pens he will get his training (already has personal & instrument rating), do a tour, and then likely be on shore duty/desk job for a good part of the remainder of his commitment, unless he is top 10-20% of his class.  Can anyone provide insight as to what the 8 years after training usually looks like for them? Many thanks.

Comment by Helomom on August 7, 2023 at 11:36pm

Thank you so much, Glenni. It has been quite a ride! I’m glad I have had the opportunity to provide a reflection about our journey to help other moms. It has been my privilege. I’m anxious to see what the future holds for our son. The Navy has been amazing but at 48 yrs old he is ready for something new. 

Comment by Glenni on August 7, 2023 at 10:42pm

Helomom, congratulations on your son's milestone. You have encouraged me so much in my son's journey as we went through ROTC, got selected for aviation and are now in Primary. I loved watching the video you posted. What an incredible career your son has had! I pray for wonderful things for your family in this time of transition!

Comment by CheriH on August 7, 2023 at 5:56pm

Helomom...we have been in West Seattle for almost 5 years now.  Our daughter and family are here.  We have sure enjoyed the weather this summer; as we were previously in Texas and Georgia!  I know you will be glad to have them closer to you...if not in your back yard.  I wish them well in their next adventure!

Comment by Helomom on August 7, 2023 at 3:34pm

Thank you for the kind words, CheriH. Our Navy experience with our two children spanned 1990-1994 with our daughter’s enlisted tour and 1993-1997 while our son was in NROTC at the University of Washington. Then 1997-2023 after he received his commission. He will be officially retired in November, he and his family have relocated to the Seattle area and he is exploring career opportunities. Their daughter will be a sophomore at University of Oregon this fall and their son will be a sophomore in high school. Priority number one was get get him setup in a good school. Our son says he looks at this like a new set of three year orders. Get E through school, then once he goes off to college they will really figure out life after the Navy. We had a fantastic time in Naples again this year. His Change of Command/Retirement ceremony was incredible. Our daughter, her husband, and their two sons flew over to Naples too! It was great to have everyone there. 

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