Allright, let me personally kill this one right here and now....
What is the purpose of this site?
- To promote Naval Aviation, or anyone interested in a career in the Navy or Marine Corps.
- A resource and information site for friends and family members of those going through the program.
- To serve as a communications medium to exchange information and advice.
The Navy I am in promotes mentorship and assisting those that want to set a goal and make something happen. Something I will not tolerate, and don't want this forum EVER devolving into, is a site that "shuts down on" people's questions or concerns. You have heard it before, "there are no stupid questions", well for the person making that post, however irritating it may be to some of you, it is a legitimate concern to that person.
In many cases you have individuals that are running into brick walls, can't get the information they require, or finally finding an avenue to talk to others about their goals/dreams, they want to get feedback on other's experiences and results. Whether it is from a fellow "newbie" still applying, someone that has applied multiple times and did or did not get it, or the servicemember who faintly recalls what they did, but wants to wish some encouragement.
I would NOT be a Naval Aviator right now if it wasn't for my NROTC Commanding Officer answering my "what are my chances?" question. I was an older ECP student, with concern over eyesight and passing the exam. Trivial to others, but a HUGE decision to me, stake all my chips on that, or go for something else in service selection? Luckily I had the support I needed at the time I needed it most. I know I am a "Type A", goal setting overachiever, but damnit, if it wasn't for the help I have recieved all throughout my career, I would not be a Naval Officer right now, and definitely not a pilot. Teamwork, and taking pride in assisting your peers and those coming behind you is what it is all about. Outside of integrity, I think it is one of the most telling marks of a successful leader.
Personally, these threads along with the "OCS CLASS insert date" threads are the last I usually look at (I barely have enough time to browse a few of the topics, let alone all of them), but most of my replies have come down to "better apply or you will go through life wondering..." That plus the fact that there are few ppl on this forum that my commissioning source and experiences could directly benefit, since I did not apply for OCS.
All the answers are definitely not here, in some cases it is the blind leading the blind. But in many cases (and I have a stack of emails that back me up on this) it comes down to getting pointed in the right direction to get the question answered or the motivation to go for it. Does it hurt anyone to answer those posts? If it is frustrating to see them, just don't click on them.
Best of luck to all in making their goals a reality, and keep those posts coming, I for one will definitely be reading them and provide advice/encouragement (also known as a swift kick in the butt).
