I honestly think Hal's point goes a little deeper than just what a pilot is worth to the airlines. the retention update brief put out earlier claimed "But lure of higher pay/greater stability in civilian job increasingly outweighing patriotism for many" but that is dead wrong: it assumes that military service is the only way to contribute to the nation....Much more valuable than clicking through NKO GMT training at the least.
Can't say I know anyone who has joined an airline to serve their country though, at least here. I've known plenty of folks, including more than a few pilots, who have continued to serve past their commitment because they want to keep serving their country. And after 2 hours per annum of clicking through the annual GMT requirements that is exactly what they get to do.