Ask a Naval Aircrewman

[Haasino]

Okay, that's making a bit more sense... since you have the 8201 NEC already, you'll only need AW(A1) "A" School, VP-30, and SERE. You'll also need to refresh on your water survival and helo-dunker stuff... but that can be done at NAS Jax or NAS Whidbey, depending on which reserve squadron they assign you to.

Hey Haasino, I was curious if you were acoustic or non-acoustic? And if you can explain the differences in their duties. Thanks in advance.

I'm an Acoustic, NEC 7841. In a nutshell, Acoustics are trained to search for, localize, track, and attack submarines using sonobuoys... Non-Acoustics are trained to operate radar for safety of flight, weather avoidance, and Anti-Surface Warfare; they also have training in Electronics and Signals Intelligence collection.

With the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance community shifting to take on much more of an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance role, both Acoustic and Non-Acoustic operators also delve into additional tasks that can't be discussed on an internet forum... it's pretty cool stuff though!

[FlyNavy]

they also have training in Electronics and Signals Intelligence collection.

...please.


;)

/r
CTT1

[Haasino]

...please.


;)

/r
CTT1

I said training... didn't specify how much... or how little. :p

[NavyGirl2015]

I am now in AWF a-school. If anyone has any questions about how school works or living over here on the a school side of base, ask away!

[BonzerAsp]

I am now in AWF a-school. If anyone has any questions about how school works or living over here on the a school side of base, ask away!

Lol you just might find yourself over here in TACAMO when you get your first command

[NavyGirl2015]

Right now the only people guaranteed TACAMO are the 4 AWS2's going though our class. Other than that, the F class before mine got a bunch of different aircrafts

[BonzerAsp]

Right now the only people guaranteed TACAMO are the 4 AWS2's going though our class. Other than that, the F class before mine got a bunch of different aircrafts

That's a shocker. We've been trying to snag a lot of Fs lately. Maybe they finally got enough in the pipeline for us for now. Consider yourself lucky lmao

[NavyGirl2015]

In the last class, there were mostly c-2s some p-3s, c-130s, and like 3 c-12s

[FlyNavy]

In the last class, there were mostly c-2s some p-3s, c-130s, and like 3 c-12s

NavyGirl, if you're active duty then please have your account verified by Guppy.

/r
CTT1

[NavyGirl2015]

How do I do that??

[FlyNavy]

How do I do that??

Message Guppy and she can verify you. If you see any of her posts she also provides a link there.

/r
CTT1

[squid.life]

Graduating O school this friday. Then home to Whidbey. Im a reservist. This whole experience has been amazing. I had a great time here and in school. AWO1 Bowie and AWO1 Eller are the best instructors. If your lucky enough to get either of them you'll be doing great. Any questions that anyone has for me go ahead and ask

[Haasino]

Nice, man... congrats! Eller was in my current squadron before taking A School orders; he taught me some great stuff as an upgrader. Any word on when they're sending you to VP-30 or SERE?

[FlyNavy]

Bumping for NavyWife160

/r
CTT1

[Navywife160]

My Husband is on his 4th day of bootcamp.
He went in as a AW
From what I understand he will choose his specific job at ACC school.
Can you explain what ACC school is?

[Haasino]

My Husband is on his 4th day of bootcamp.
He went in as a AW
From what I understand he will choose his specific job at ACC school.
Can you explain what ACC school is?

Welcome!

Naval Aircrew Candidate School (NACCS) is a 3-week training course consisting of physical training, water survival, and flight physiology courses. I could go into detail about it, but this thread (http://www.navydep.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5600), and this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAzCiAEsRg0&feature=youtu.be) will cover more than enough information for you...

Prior to the last week of NACCS (After Hell Week), he will be able to list his preference of AWO, AWV, or AWF in order from 1-3; the instructors will then determine what rates are needed at the moment, and assign as necessary. With the current transition and reshaping of Naval aviation, he's most likely to get AWO... though AWF and AWV do still come out.

From NACCS, he'll go on to his respective "A" School, where he'll choose his sub-billet and aircraft type before continuing on to his Fleet Replacement Squadron and SERE before reporting to his initial command. In total, he'll probably be in training commands for ~2 years, and you'll be able to live with him at his FRS when he reports there in ~8-12 months.

[Navywife160]

Welcome!

Naval Aircrew Candidate School (NACCS) is a 3-week training course consisting of physical training, water survival, and flight physiology courses. I could go into detail about it, but this thread (http://www.navydep.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5600), and this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAzCiAEsRg0&feature=youtu.be) will cover more than enough information for you...

Prior to the last week of NACCS (After Hell Week), he will be able to list his preference of AWO, AWV, or AWF in order from 1-3; the instructors will then determine what rates are needed at the moment, and assign as necessary. With the current transition and reshaping of Naval aviation, he's most likely to get AWO... though AWF and AWV do still come out.

From NACCS, he'll go on to his respective "A" School, where he'll choose his sub-billet and aircraft type before continuing on to his Fleet Replacement Squadron and SERE before reporting to his initial command. In total, he'll probably be in training commands for ~2 years, and you'll be able to live with him at his FRS when he reports there in ~8-12 months.

Thank yo sooo much for your in depth answer! Im new to this so Im unfamiliar with the Navy terminology.
What do you mean when you say they will need to check ratings when he goes to pick his job?
So more than likely he will be assigned a job rather than choosing one?
I thought Hell week was in RTC bootcamp?

[Haasino]

Thank yo sooo much for your in depth answer! Im new to this so Im unfamiliar with the Navy terminology.
What do you mean when you say they will need to check ratings when he goes to pick his job?
So more than likely he will be assigned a job rather than choosing one?
I thought Hell week was in RTC bootcamp?

They have to check and see what Aircrew ratings are in demand for the week that your husband's class is graduating... one week might be entirely AWO; the next week entirely AWV and AWF, etc... And you are correct... he will essentially be assigned a job. When I gave my list, it was AWV, AWO, and AWF... my classmate put AWO, AWV, and AWF... I got AWO, and she got AWV. In retrospect, I'm glad... but just goes to show they kinda assign at random even when the options are available.

Everyone likes to have a "Hell Week"... RTC Hell Week is Disneyland compared to NACCS... which is Disneyland compared to Rescue Swimmer School... which is Disneyland compared to BUDS, lol.

[FlyNavy]

Haas,

What can I expect for Hell Week at NACCS? I report in next week, I'll have that week long indoc, and then into class I go.

Thoughts?

/r
CTT1

[Haasino]

Haas,

What can I expect for Hell Week at NACCS? I report in next week, I'll have that week long indoc, and then into class I go.

Thoughts?

/r
CTT1

As a Fleet Returnee, you'll avoid most/all of the backlog and watches that recruits from RTC deal with. You'll start Week 1 with INDOC, which will be classroom as well as a PRT and Class II swim test. If you don't pass the swim test or PRT (Which requires 100% perfect form on push-ups and sit-ups), you'll go on Swim or PT Hold until you do. From there, you'll jump into the next available class and start Week 2, which is "Hell Week". I'm told the cirriculum has shifted slightly toward the easy side... but as of Feb/Mar 2013, this is what it looked like:

Thursday was "Shock & Awe" day - we did 2 stress-sets, followed by a 3mi formation run, followed by a 3rd stress-set... all the while there were about 15 instructors ranging from PO2s to Marine SSgts and Senior Chiefs screaming at you and telling you you're a piece of shit, that you should just DOR (Drop On Request), that they're not gonna let you graduate anyway, etc. They're just trying to weed out the weak ones, and it worked on 2 candidates. This is also the day they make their judgments on whether or not they want to see you graduate in 3 weeks... if they don't like you, you'll become their Pvt. Pyle and they'll do what they can to make sure you don't make it to graduation. The key is to show determination... watch the instructor leading the PT and, when one walks past you, look at them and sound off loud and proud... they seemed to swarm the ones who were quiet, struggling, or afraid to make eye-contact.

Friday was a 5mi formation run at about an 8min/mi pace... we noticed the attitude from our instructors went from demeaning, to motivating now that "shock & awe" was over. Then, after lunch, we went to the pool and did our WS-3 and WS-4, which was 2min tread/5min float in swimsuit, then again in flightsuit and boots. After that we did a 15min endurance swim in flightsuit and boots.

Monday we went down to the seawall and did the equivalent of 3 stress-sets, with 200m sprints between... then the WS-5 after lunch, which was 2min tread/6min float in flightsuit, boots, gloves, and vest. After that we did a 20min endurance swim in flightsuit and boots.

Tuesday we went to the Aircrew track and did 3 stress-sets, with 2 laps in-between which were timed... then the WS-6 after lunch, which was 2min tread/7min float in flightsuit, boots, gloves, vest, and helmet. After that we did a 25min endurance swim in flightsuit and boots.

Wednesday we did another 2 stress-sets, followed by a slightly slower 4mi formation run... then the WS-7 after lunch, which was jumping off the tower in flightsuit and boots, and swimming submerged for ~25m without any part of your body breaking the surface. Then we did some synchronized swimming where they taught us how to flail our arms and swim through burning surface oil/debris.

Thursday we watched a few episodes of "The Pacific" with the graduating class, while everyone shock & awed the new class outside... then the WS-8 after lunch, which was a 100m swim in flightsuit, boots, gloves, vest, and helmet... followed by demonstration of the 4 ways to use your clothes as a flotation device.

Friday wrapped-up Hell Week with the 1mi confidence swim in the morning, followed by liberty at 1100... easy day. Most annoying part of the mile swim was fighting boredom, and getting kicked by other people in your lane.

Week 3 is "Disney Week" because you do the low-pressure chamber, the helo dunker, parachute training, and low light/night vision training.

Week 4 is another PRT where you have to score at least a Good in every category, then flight gear issue, CPR training, and graduation.

[Navywife160]

They have to check and see what Aircrew ratings are in demand for the week that your husband's class is graduating... one week might be entirely AWO; the next week entirely AWV and AWF, etc... And you are correct... he will essentially be assigned a job. When I gave my list, it was AWV, AWO, and AWF... my classmate put AWO, AWV, and AWF... I got AWO, and she got AWV. In retrospect, I'm glad... but just goes to show they kinda assign at random even when the options are available.

Everyone likes to have a "Hell Week"... RTC Hell Week is Disneyland compared to NACCS... which is Disneyland compared to Rescue Swimmer School... which is Disneyland compared to BUDS, lol.

So thats your Job your an AWO? Can you ever be reassigned your job throughout your tour?

[NavyGirl2015]

I'll give you guys an update on what NACCS does...
You start indoc the first Monday you are there. On the Tuesday of indoc, you will do the second class swim test which has to be done with perfect form or you get out into swim hold, on the Friday of indoc you will do your PST in, which is to see where you are. If you don't pass the "in" scores which is the passing score from bootcamp, you will be in pt hold. Then after indoc, most people are in hold for about one week until they actually class up. It's called backlog. People are in there waiting to be classed up, waiting for orders to leave for a school, people on security hold, and people who got dropped from aircrew waiting on new rates.
You will find out you got classed up on Thursday and you will meet with your class on the next day, Friday. This is where you will get to know your instructors. Andif I remember correctly, you will take the second class swim test again. Monday starts the real fun.

Week 1: I wouldn't consider it "hell week" but maybe just hell days. Like the first two days. You do like 3-4 stress sets in the morning, and in the afternoon you will go to the pool. You will get a brief before each swimming evolution and gradually add more gear. Starting in just swim suits and ending in a flight suit, boots, a flight vest, gloves and a helmet. If you are comfortable in the water you will be fine. Just don't freak out and remember the helmet floats. Week one ends with the mile swim on Friday. In the afternoons, you will have lessons taught to you by your instructor. Oh and on Thursday you will go on a 4 mile run with the grad class and backlog.

Week 2: Disney week. Mainly all of the hard stuff is over by now. You might have a couple stress sets on Monday morning to show the new class how it's done. (I didn't because I had a short week the week before and they didn't class anyone up). We did workout then, wasn't too hard. But this week is more classroom learning. The hardest part is staying awake. If you are non rescue swimmer, this is where you will find out if you will be fixed wing or dry AWS. This week is a lot more fun for fixed wing people because you get to go on the "rides". You will learn how to operate a parachute and how to fix any problems with it, some on land, some in the water. You will have class in the morning, and practical application in the afternoon. We did the in water parachute training on Wednesday and helo dunker training and the dunker on Thursday. After we did the dunker, we went through how to use a raft, what to do when we are rescued, ect. Friday is the PST out. You need 'good' scores to graduate NACCS. And yes, if you fail, you will get put into pt hold. I saw it happen.

Week 3: Congrats! It's graduation week! Monday is more classroom lectures. Tuesday is Tom Cruise Tuesday! This is where you will get issued all your flight gear in the morning, and learn how to wear and care for it in the afternoon. Wednesday morning you will play team sports with backlog and in the afternoon you will do graduation practice. Thursday is the big day! You will put on your fancy graduation shirts and lead a 4 mile run with your class, week 1 class and backlog. I had the pleasure of the rescue swimmer school join us because they had nothing else to do. After you get back you will do a couple stress sets with everyone and then go shower and put on your flight suit for the first time! You graduate around 10 in the morning. Just make sure the Aircrewman's Creed is nice and loud. Following graduation, you will change and then have graduation liberty. On Friday you will be back in backlog.

After you graduate you will be on grad hold waiting for orders. I was on grad hold for 4 weeks. During this time they will hold a grad meeting where you will make your wish list. To kind of put in perspective, we had the grad meeting on a Tuesday, I found out Wednesday I was leaving Thursday. It can happen really fast, or you could find out you are leaving in weeks. Just be ready.

This timeline might not be perfect because I had a short week during my class so events might be on different days when you will go through.

Good luck and Hooyah Aircrew!!

[Navywife160]

As a Fleet Returnee, you'll avoid most/all of the backlog and watches that recruits from RTC deal with. You'll start Week 1 with INDOC, which will be classroom as well as a PRT and Class II swim test. If you don't pass the swim test or PRT (Which requires 100% perfect form on push-ups and sit-ups), you'll go on Swim or PT Hold until you do. From there, you'll jump into the next available class and start Week 2, which is "Hell Week". I'm told the cirriculum has shifted slightly toward the easy side... but as of Feb/Mar 2013, this is what it looked like:

Thursday was "Shock & Awe" day - we did 2 stress-sets, followed by a 3mi formation run, followed by a 3rd stress-set... all the while there were about 15 instructors ranging from PO2s to Marine SSgts and Senior Chiefs screaming at you and telling you you're a piece of shit, that you should just DOR (Drop On Request), that they're not gonna let you graduate anyway, etc. They're just trying to weed out the weak ones, and it worked on 2 candidates. This is also the day they make their judgments on whether or not they want to see you graduate in 3 weeks... if they don't like you, you'll become their Pvt. Pyle and they'll do what they can to make sure you don't make it to graduation. The key is to show determination... watch the instructor leading the PT and, when one walks past you, look at them and sound off loud and proud... they seemed to swarm the ones who were quiet, struggling, or afraid to make eye-contact.

Friday was a 5mi formation run at about an 8min/mi pace... we noticed the attitude from our instructors went from demeaning, to motivating now that "shock & awe" was over. Then, after lunch, we went to the pool and did our WS-3 and WS-4, which was 2min tread/5min float in swimsuit, then again in flightsuit and boots. After that we did a 15min endurance swim in flightsuit and boots.

Monday we went down to the seawall and did the equivalent of 3 stress-sets, with 200m sprints between... then the WS-5 after lunch, which was 2min tread/6min float in flightsuit, boots, gloves, and vest. After that we did a 20min endurance swim in flightsuit and boots.

Tuesday we went to the Aircrew track and did 3 stress-sets, with 2 laps in-between which were timed... then the WS-6 after lunch, which was 2min tread/7min float in flightsuit, boots, gloves, vest, and helmet. After that we did a 25min endurance swim in flightsuit and boots.

Wednesday we did another 2 stress-sets, followed by a slightly slower 4mi formation run... then the WS-7 after lunch, which was jumping off the tower in flightsuit and boots, and swimming submerged for ~25m without any part of your body breaking the surface. Then we did some synchronized swimming where they taught us how to flail our arms and swim through burning surface oil/debris.

Thursday we watched a few episodes of "The Pacific" with the graduating class, while everyone shock & awed the new class outside... then the WS-8 after lunch, which was a 100m swim in flightsuit, boots, gloves, vest, and helmet... followed by demonstration of the 4 ways to use your clothes as a flotation device.

Friday wrapped-up Hell Week with the 1mi confidence swim in the morning, followed by liberty at 1100... easy day. Most annoying part of the mile swim was fighting boredom, and getting kicked by other people in your lane.

Week 3 is "Disney Week" because you do the low-pressure chamber, the helo dunker, parachute training, and low light/night vision training.

Week 4 is another PRT where you have to score at least a Good in every category, then flight gear issue, CPR training, and graduation.

What happends if you DOR or if you just dont make it?

[NavyGirl2015]

You will be re-rated. Most people right now are getting a-pact. Which is undesignated airman. You will be at the needs of the navy when you get to your squadron.

[Navywife160]

You will be re-rated. Most people right now are getting a-pact. Which is undesignated airman. You will be at the needs of the navy when you get to your squadron.

Does that mean they can put him whereever they choose?

[Haasino]

Does that mean they can put him whereever they choose?

Yes, often to a ship that's about to deploy since they often need personnel... you may get to request a coast (East Coast vs. West Coast), but I often saw it ignored.

[Navywife160]

Yes, often to a ship that's about to deploy since they often need personnel... you may get to request a coast (East Coast vs. West Coast), but I often saw it ignored.

What would he most likely be doing on the ship if that was the case?

[FlyNavy]

Haas,

Thanks for the insight man, I appreciate it. I check in on Wednesday but will be there by tomorrow. Taking tomorrow and Tuesday to get acclimated to NAS (never went there when I was at Corry) and work out some.

Ready to get this shit started already haha Plus the last few years at NIOC destroyed my PT, so I'm looking forward to an ass kicking for a bit.

When you say stress set though, what's that actually encompass?

/r
CTT1

[Haasino]

It'll be a set consisting of several different exercises... wide-arm push-ups, crunchs, flutter-kicks, standard push-ups, in-outs, burpees, diamond-grip push-ups. That would be one set... usually with about 15-30 reps for each... and you'd do 3-4 sets before going for a ~3mi run.

[J.Morales]

Hey guys, hoping an aircrooman can help. I just got Selected for some AWO2 orders. No clue as to what they do. Here's what I found on Google:

COMSUBLANT's job as Commander Task Force 84 is to effectively employ and improve the combat capability of Atlantic Fleet submarines and ASW forces afloat while simultaneously increasing the efficiency of operations ashore. T-AGOS ships are operated by the Military Sealift Command and are under the administrative command of Commander, Undersea Surveillance. They are deployed under the Operational Control (OPCON) of the Theater ASW Commanders, CTF 84 and CTF 12. Civilian technicians who operate and maintain the mission equipment man the SURTASS Operations Center (SOC), the nerve center of the ship. When operating with tactical forces, military detachments are embarked for onboard analysis and direct reporting to fleet units.

So yeah, what am I gonna be doing there? (Attached is the screenshot of the email I received from CMSID)

[squid.life]

Nice, man... congrats! Eller was in my current squadron before taking A School orders; he taught me some great stuff as an upgrader. Any word on when they're sending you to VP-30 or SERE?

Glad that you know him and that he did good things for you. We were his first real class i guess. And he nailed it. No drops and we took on two rolls.

not sure when they are goiing to send me.I have to get gained by the NOSC first then on my first drill weekend start putting in for AWO billets. THEN, whoever picks me up has to fund my going back to Jax. Fun stuff huh? I miss my flight suit.....

[Haasino]

Hey guys, hoping an aircrooman can help. I just got Selected for some AWO2 orders. No clue as to what they do. Here's what I found on Google:

COMSUBLANT's job as Commander Task Force 84 is to effectively employ and improve the combat capability of Atlantic Fleet submarines and ASW forces afloat while simultaneously increasing the efficiency of operations ashore. T-AGOS ships are operated by the Military Sealift Command and are under the administrative command of Commander, Undersea Surveillance. They are deployed under the Operational Control (OPCON) of the Theater ASW Commanders, CTF 84 and CTF 12. Civilian technicians who operate and maintain the mission equipment man the SURTASS Operations Center (SOC), the nerve center of the ship. When operating with tactical forces, military detachments are embarked for onboard analysis and direct reporting to fleet units.

So yeah, what am I gonna be doing there? (Attached is the screenshot of the email I received from CMSID)

Do you know where you're going? If it's in Virginia, then I might know...

Glad that you know him and that he did good things for you. We were his first real class i guess. And he nailed it. No drops and we took on two rolls.

not sure when they are goiing to send me.I have to get gained by the NOSC first then on my first drill weekend start putting in for AWO billets. THEN, whoever picks me up has to fund my going back to Jax. Fun stuff huh? I miss my flight suit.....

Nice, man... keep us posted!

[Diverdee90]

Ok Haasino quick question, is there a limit to how long they are on hold for PT? Or how many chances they get? My son has passed everything except the stinking push-ups needs to start Candidate school... Any tips for passing them? This momma is feeling sad, he is working his butt off and wants this so bad, would hate to see him have to rerate

[Haasino]

Ok Haasino quick question, is there a limit to how long they are on hold for PT? Or how many chances they get? My son has passed everything except the stinking push-ups needs to start Candidate school... Any tips for passing them? This momma is feeling sad, he is working his butt off and wants this so bad, would hate to see him have to rerate

It kind of varies based on how many candidates are there and how badly they need people... generally it's a week or two, and then you'd have a Progress Review Board where they decide whether to give you another week, or drop you. Factors like motivation and progress (Like if he can do ten more now than he could a week ago) play a big part in their decision.

[BloodyPheonix]

Hey Hass, this might be outside your area of expertise but I figured I'd try since you said you have a few friends that do the mine hunting thing (AWR?).

I was talking to a mineman a few weeks ago and I asked him where females typically get sent because they aren't allowed on Mine Countermeasure ships. He said that it's pretty common for them to end up with squadrons working with the mine hunting helos. I was wondering if you knew what that duty would entail? If it was riding along on the helo during flight or simply helping disarm/destroy the mines that were picked up when they landed?

[J.Morales]

CTF-84 @ Virginia Beach

[Haasino]

Hey Hass, this might be outside your area of expertise but I figured I'd try since you said you have a few friends that do the mine hunting thing (AWR?).

I was talking to a mineman a few weeks ago and I asked him where females typically get sent because they aren't allowed on Mine Countermeasure ships. He said that it's pretty common for them to end up with squadrons working with the mine hunting helos. I was wondering if you knew what that duty would entail? If it was riding along on the helo during flight or simply helping disarm/destroy the mines that were picked up when they landed?

I'm not sure exactly what their duties would be, but the only ones flying in HM squadrons will be the pilots and AWS'... she'll most likely be servicing the mine countermeasure equipment.

CTF-84 @ Virginia Beach

Hmm... I've got a few guesses, but nothing I want to discuss on open forum. Most likely your role is going to be "analyst"...

[NavyGirl2015]

Just got my orders for my FRS! I got p-3s so I'm going to Jacksonville.

[Haasino]

Just got my orders for my FRS! I got p-3s so I'm going to Jacksonville.

Right on! We'll probably cross paths at some point in Whidbey.

[BloodyPheonix]

That makes a lot more sense than what I was thinking. Thanks.

[Diverdee90]

It kind of varies based on how many candidates are there and how badly they need people... generally it's a week or two, and then you'd have a Progress Review Board where they decide whether to give you another week, or drop you. Factors like motivation and progress (Like if he can do ten more now than he could a week ago) play a big part in their decision.



Forgot to update you, my son passed the push ups the week after Thanksgiving so now waiting for Holiday shut down then should start Candidate school.... Yay cant wait :)

[Diverdee90]

So my son graduated from Candidate school last week and he thinks he is getting AWV, can you explain a little more of this rate to me. He was hoping for AWS I think. AWV was his second choice. Thanks

[FlyNavy]

So my son graduated from Candidate school last week and he thinks he is getting AWV, can you explain a little more of this rate to me. He was hoping for AWS I think. AWV was his second choice. Thanks

Per Naval Personnel Command:

Aircrewman Avionics (AWV): In-Flight technician/trouble shooter on board P-3C, EP-3 and E-6B aircraft. Maintains and trouble shoots all avionics equipment while in flight. Operates communication systems and electronic warfare equipment onboard E-6B and EP-3 aircraft. Operates UAS and UAS payloads. Operates and maintains tactical support center systems at shore installations and tactical mobile systems in expeditionary MTOC units.

That being said, it really comes down to where he ends up getting stationed. AWV's working on E-6B's, for example, will do a totally different job than the guys I fly with. But that little blurb covers the basics of what's possible for them and what platforms you're gonna find them on.

I'm sure AWO2 will also have some input.

/r
CTT1

[Haasino]

The NPC blurb CTT1 posted pretty much sums it up... though the UAS (drone) and TSC/MTOC part is incorrect; those are both AWO shore duty billets now. The E-6B is the only platform intended to be around past 2020, and there's currently a push to get AWF's and AWV's into the TACAMO squadrons out in Oklahoma, so his best chance it to get orders there. Otherwise, he might get orders to VQ-1 as an IFT or Electronic Warfare Operator... or he may be in one of the last classes of P-3 IFT to come out of Fleet Replacement training. Hopefully he doesn't get the latter, because that would mean he'll be lucky to make 2 years in his squadron before going back to learn a new job.

[Diverdee90]

Getting used to this Navy thing where things are always changing... My son did not get AWV he is AWF, started INDOC yesterday and then just waiting to class up... I'm assuming from Hassino's reply he will probably end up in Oklahoma? Just curious.... He is excited for AWF, it was his first choice he said, sorry for my post before that he would be AWV....

[Haasino]

Most likely a TACAMO flight engineer in Oklahoma, or a Greyhound loadmaster out of Norfolk or San Diego... possibly a P-3/EP-3 flight engineer, but hopefully not as the sunset of the P-3 Orion is visible on the horizon at this point.

[E_Storey]

Do I have to qualify while I'm in the DEP program in order to go to AWRSS?

[FlyNavy]

Do I have to qualify while I'm in the DEP program in order to go to AWRSS?

Qualify medically you mean? Oooorrrrr?
(I'm also Aircrew, just as a CT)

/r
CTT1

[FlyNavy]

Do I have to qualify while I'm in the DEP program in order to go to AWRSS?

If you're talking about getting an AIRR contract (Rescue Swimmer) then yes you should be required to past a PST (spec war PT test) before being awarded that contract.

AWR is considered part of the Spec War/Challenge programs. Talk with your recruiter about it and they can give you the in's and out's. Usually there is a Spec War motivator in your area that can help with the PT and administer the test.

/r
CTT1

[Haasino]

http://i.imgur.com/f7FdEdG.jpg

[austin_andres]

Hello, I'm currently in the process of joining the navy and I would like to be an AWO Aircrewman. Due to some circumstances I would have a choice of shipping soon and going in as FTS or waiting a long time and going AD. Would i be able to go FTS AWO? Which is a better lifestyle, AD or FTS? I go to meps on Monday so any additional information would be much appreciated.

[Haasino]

Hello, I'm currently in the process of joining the navy and I would like to be an AWO Aircrewman. Due to some circumstances I would have a choice of shipping soon and going in as FTS or waiting a long time and going AD. Would i be able to go FTS AWO? Which is a better lifestyle, AD or FTS? I go to meps on Monday so any additional information would be much appreciated.

The only FTS Aircrew orders are AWF Loadmasters and Flight Attendants on C-130's, C-40's, and C-12's... AWO is only initially available for AD, however you can transition to SelRes after your first enlistment if there's available orders in either of the two reserve maritime patrol squadrons.

My advice if you want AWO is to stick it out for the AD slot and use the time to physically prepare yourself for Aircrew Candidate School.

[FlyNavy]

The only FTS Aircrew orders are AWF Loadmasters and Flight Attendants on C-130's, C-40's, and C-12's... AWO is only initially available for AD, however you can transition to SelRes after your first enlistment if there's available orders in either of the two reserve maritime patrol squadrons.

My advice if you want AWO is to stick it out for the AD slot and use the time to physically prepare yourself for Aircrew Candidate School.

https://i.imgur.com/f7FdEdG.jpg

[austin_andres]

Hello. Update: I swore into the navy yesterday with an Aircrew contract, I leave May 18th. Any tips for me to prepare aswell as tips once i get in? I have been training for this job in the physical aspect. I've been swimming 5 miles a week for quite some time. Along with running 30-40 miles a week. Also lifting weights and doing as many bodyweight exercises i could think of. Any tips would be much appreciated.

[FlyNavy]

Hello. Update: I swore into the navy yesterday with an Aircrew contract, I leave May 18th. Any tips for me to prepare aswell as tips once i get in? I have been training for this job in the physical aspect. I've been swimming 5 miles a week for quite some time. Along with running 30-40 miles a week. Also lifting weights and doing as many bodyweight exercises i could think of. Any tips would be much appreciated.

If you're doing all that then you should be fine. Body weight exercises are the way to go! Being able to bench a lot is great if you're in a weight lifting competition, but at NACCS it's about how long you can do it for and how many reps you can do.

For the running, I would say you don't need to do that much distance. The longest run we did was around 5 miles (grad runs). So instead of just pure distance, switch up days between distance and then sprint intervals. The sprint intervals will help with your run times while the distance keeps your cardio up. The biggest thing a lot of people failed on was that last PST test. Having a crappy run time is what sank the vast majority of the guys who failed.

As far as swimming goes, just make sure you're comfortable in the water. You'll be doing plenty of endurance swims and each day you'll be doing treads with more and more gear on (ie flight suit, boots, vest, helmet, etc).

/r
CTT1

[austin_andres]

Thank you! For my rating inside of Aircrew, I would like to be a AWO or AWF (flight engineer side). So my other question would be what would I have to do to accomplish this and when does this selection take place?

[FlyNavy]

Thank you! For my rating inside of Aircrew, I would like to be a AWO or AWF (flight engineer side). So my other question would be what would I have to do to accomplish this and when does this selection take place?

Selection happens as you're about to graduate.

Nothing you do really will have much impact, as the LPO of the school is just given a number quota for each job to fill and 9 times out of 10 he just fills it up and lets you know where he put you.

Occasionally he'll let the top few people in the class get a pick, but I've personally seen it go both ways. So don't let people tell you that you're 100% going to get a pick because there is a very legitimate chance they just hand you a rate as well. (again, seen both happen while I was there)

AWF's on the FE side of the house are also losing a lot of positions as the Navy decommissions the P-3 and moves to the P-8. They're moving those guys into C-2 or E-6 platforms, but the opportunity is going to be a lot less than it used to be seeing as they have to do something with all the guys they already have now.

AWO is pretty common though (90% of my class ended up there) and they will still be in use with the new P-8 platform.

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CTT1

[austin_andres]

For the rate of AWO, how difficult is the A-School? Like do you study things like math or is it more about your aircraft and how it operates? Also how long is the typical pipeline, taking into affect being on holds?

[BonzerAsp]

We're being flooded with AWFs now. We need more AWF2's and higher though. As an AWF FE on the E-6b platform, you're technically an FE trainee until you make E-5. Prepare to do lots of FE bitch work until you make it there :rofl: AWF1 and higher is where it's at

[Diverdee90]

My son is graduating this week - he is an AWF and headed to Oklahoma next week... Excited for his next step in this crazy journey

[BonzerAsp]

My son is graduating this week - he is an AWF and headed to Oklahoma next week... Excited for his next step in this crazy journey

Congrats to him! Oklahoma isn't that bad honestly. I've been stationed here for over a year now and I'm enjoying it so far.

[ByrgeB]

Whoa whoa, I went to meps the 8th of march, swore in the 9th, got accepted into the Aircrewman program and was offered FTS (They informed it was one of the best programs too get into..fts that is...stupid fast advancement/etc)

I dont ship till sept 28th, howd u get in after me and get shipped out in may @Austin_andres

and one more question, Haasino, what do you mean FTS doesnt get too pick AWO.. I was informed ill get too choose from AWO. AWF. AWV even while FTS...

Is this not true? Theyve lied too me multiple times, saying family will go to move with me too schooling in pensacola ( im 26, married, and 2 kids) come too find out they wont.. and multuple more reasons.

HELP.

[Haasino]

For the rate of AWO, how difficult is the A-School? Like do you study things like math or is it more about your aircraft and how it operates? Also how long is the typical pipeline, taking into affect being on holds?

AW(A1) "A" School covers Advances sound transmission theories, tactical oceanography, basic diesel and nuclear submarine mechanical characteristics, and basic radar theory... the hard part is memorization of Secret level information which can't be studied outside of class hours. To graduate, we had to memorize about 12 diesel/nuclear submarine parameters, which consisted of about an entire whiteboard worth of components and frequencies... and about 50 types of radars, including basic parameters, ships/subs/aircraft/vehicles associated with them, and weapons and applicable ranges if any.

You don't learn anything about your aircraft until you get your follow-on orders and go to the applicable Fleet Replacement Squadron for ~1 year.

Total training pipeline from RTC to operational squadron is about 2 years.

My son is graduating this week - he is an AWF and headed to Oklahoma next week... Excited for his next step in this crazy journey

Awesome, congrats to him!

Whoa whoa, I went to meps the 8th of march, swore in the 9th, got accepted into the Aircrewman program and was offered FTS (They informed it was one of the best programs too get into..ftw that is...stupid fast advancement/etc)

I dont ship till sept 28th, howd u get in after me and get shipped out in may @Austin_andres

and one more question, Haasino, what do you mean FTS doesnt get too pick AWO.. I was informed ill get too choose from AWO. AWF. AWV even while FTS...

Is this not true? Theyve lied too me multiple times, saying family will go to move with me too schooling in pensacola ( im 26, married, and 2 kids) come too find out they wont.. and multuple more reasons.

HELP.

Nothing is impossible... but, like a US ground-invasion of Canada, just highly unlikely. Currently, FTS Aircrew is only AWF's acting as flight attendants and loadmasters on C-40 and C-130 aircraft.

You'll most likely be assigned AWF out of NACCS and attend AWF "A" School across the base in Pensacola... since NACCS is "officially" a 3 week school, and "A" School is about a month or so, you are correct that the Navy will not pay to relocate your family because they don't factor in the hold times waiting to class-up... so you may be in Pensacola for over 6 months... but the Navy still considers it TAD follow-on orders from RTC.

After "A" School, you'll get assignment to a VR squadron flying the C-40 or C-130, and from there they'll determine whether you'll go to the squadron or do more follow-on training. FTS AWF doesn't go through SERE, but they do go through C-40 Transportation Safety Specialist training with either Delta or American Airlines (Whichever has a flight attendant class open first), or loadmaster training for C-130s.

[ByrgeB]

1 and 1/2 year of AirC School and Training too become a AWF a be a flight attendant. How awesome..

Just crazy that my recruiter has informed me totally wrong this whole time. Everytime I ask a question, he just informs me he doesnt know much about AIRC programs.

Just contacted a large recruiting office in Tennessee that is good in the AIRC program, They pulled quotas up and informed me the last 296 people that tried for AWO, 0% was filled. Everyone currently coming out of Schooling is placed into AWF. while 9% is getting AWV.

Sad..

[austin_andres]

Whoa whoa, I went to meps the 8th of march, swore in the 9th, got accepted into the Aircrewman program and was offered FTS (They informed it was one of the best programs too get into..fts that is...stupid fast advancement/etc)

I dont ship till sept 28th, howd u get in after me and get shipped out in may @Austin_andres

and one more question, Haasino, what do you mean FTS doesnt get too pick AWO.. I was informed ill get too choose from AWO. AWF. AWV even while FTS...

Is this not true? Theyve lied too me multiple times, saying family will go to move with me too schooling in pensacola ( im 26, married, and 2 kids) come too find out they wont.. and multuple more reasons.

HELP.

I am currently 18, and when I went to MEPS (April 3rd, in buffalo) I qualified for almost everything, when I went to select my job the guy there threw down a rating for something in intel, I agreed that it sounded like an awesome job but I asked him if AIRC was open and he looked it up. He said there were two job slots open (May 6th May 18th) I am currently in college and my last final is on May 6th, so he gave me May 18th. I don't know much about the proccess, my recruiter had told me previously that i would be luckly to ship by october so i was surprised when he informed me I ship in May! This is complete speculation, but I was informed by my uncle (retired colonel in the Air Force) that because my asvab was high, I was a "CAT 1" recruit, meaning that they would ship me faster. Like i said, speculation. I'm sorry that it worked out that you don't ship until september.. But good luck to you man! I was also looking at FTS, it is a good gig, from what i was told you get stationed somewhere and you don't leave except deployments, which would be awesome since you have a family. I just think that AWO looks super bad ass and exactly what I want, I also have a family member in that field and he loves it, so I wanted to have the oppurtunity to try to get AWO, but honestly man, from what I have read, and if we make passed all the tough schools, anything in AIRC seems awesome, I feel pretty lucky that I have a chance to join this community.

[austin_andres]

AW(A1) "A" School covers Advances sound transmission theories, tactical oceanography, basic diesel and nuclear submarine mechanical characteristics, and basic radar theory... the hard part is memorization of Secret level information which can't be studied outside of class hours. To graduate, we had to memorize about 12 diesel/nuclear submarine parameters, which consisted of about an entire whiteboard worth of components and frequencies... and about 50 types of radars, including basic parameters, ships/subs/aircraft/vehicles associated with them, and weapons and applicable ranges if any.

You don't learn anything about your aircraft until you get your follow-on orders and go to the applicable Fleet Replacement Squadron for ~1 year.

Total training pipeline from RTC to operational squadron is about 2 years.



Awesome, congrats to him!



Nothing is impossible... but, like a US ground-invasion of Canada, just highly unlikely. Currently, FTS Aircrew is only AWF's acting as flight attendants and loadmasters on C-40 and C-130 aircraft.

You'll most likely be assigned AWF out of NACCS and attend AWF "A" School across the base in Pensacola... since NACCS is "officially" a 3 week school, and "A" School is about a month or so, you are correct that the Navy will not pay to relocate your family because they don't factor in the hold times waiting to class-up... so you may be in Pensacola for over 6 months... but the Navy still considers it TAD follow-on orders from RTC.

After "A" School, you'll get assignment to a VR squadron flying the C-40 or C-130, and from there they'll determine whether you'll go to the squadron or do more follow-on training. FTS AWF doesn't go through SERE, but they do go through C-40 Transportation Safety Specialist training with either Delta or American Airlines (Whichever has a flight attendant class open first), or loadmaster training for C-130s.

Thank you Haasino! Its kinda difficult to find information about AIRC, and although I realize I can't plan and know everything, I just have to go through it, it is nice to have a general idea to plan ahead in life, so I appreciate the replies to my questions.

[ByrgeB]

What's a good break down of a normal day for a AWF.

[austin_andres]

What does the flight physical consist of? What are some reasons someone would be disqualified?

[Haasino]

What's a good break down of a normal day for a AWF.

I can only comment on IBNFE Local 8251... aka, P-3 FE's. E-6, C-2, and VR AWF's are a completely different and foreign entity to me.

As a P-3 FE, you'll be assigned to work in one of the mech shops such as powerplants, airframes, maintenance control, etc. Your basic daily workload will be based on maintenance needs, or if you're on Duty FE, where you'll standby in case maintenance needs to spin up an engine for testing.

What does the flight physical consist of? What are some reasons someone would be disqualified?

It's basically just a hand-on physical with about 6 tubes of blood tested for anything and everything, an exam of your sinuses and chest cavity, and an EKG to make sure your heart is normal. The huge disqualifiers that are ulikely to be waived are sinus issues, heart issues, and color blindness.

[FlyNavy]

This is complete speculation, but I was informed by my uncle (retired colonel in the Air Force) that because my asvab was high, I was a "CAT 1" recruit, meaning that they would ship me faster.

Just so you're on the right page, your ASVAB score has exactly zero things to do with when they'll ship you.

I can't speak for the Air Force, but in the Navy that has nothing to do with anything outside of what jobs you might qualify for.

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CTT1

[NavyGirl2015]

Hey guys! Just an update for y'all. I'm in Jacksonville right now going through P-3 flight engineer school. This school is no joke. But I'm learning a crap ton I'd never even think about in real life. And there are some FTS fe's here.

[NavyGirl2015]

And a little to add on my previous comment, from what we are hearing is that fe's are about 50% manned right now so they are hurting for us in the fleet. That being said, they are doing everything they can to help us get through this school. Like I said, it's no joke and I have already been rolled once but I'm better off for it. I'm doing much better now. They have a lot of help here for those who need it so if anyone gets p-3 fe orders, and want to get through this school, the instructors will do their best to help you learn the knowledge you will need to pass.

[papaseals]

This is an awesome thread. Lots of info...

I read on another site that hay fever will disqualify you. Is this a diagnoses question or do they test for it? I imagine everyone gets some form of runny nose when exposed to high levels of pollen and its interesting that this would disqualify you. I understand some people have a more severe reaction to pollen so what is the extent they will allow it.

Thanks.

[FlyNavy]

This is an awesome thread. Lots of info...

I read on another site that hay fever will disqualify you. Is this a diagnoses question or do they test for it? I imagine everyone gets some form of runny nose when exposed to high levels of pollen and its interesting that this would disqualify you. I understand some people have a more severe reaction to pollen so what is the extent they will allow it.

Thanks.

For the Naval Aerospace Medical Institute (NAMI), Hay Fever or Rhinitis is mostly on a case-by-case basis.

What the flight doc is going to base that on is how often do you have symptoms, how much does it complicate things, and what the actual state of your sinuses are (IE do you have polyps, cysts, something like that).

Typically seasonal allergies are not considered disqualifying, however sinus issues that are consistent or have a large impact would be considered disqualifying.

The reason for this is barotrauma. If your sinuses are all blocked up then your they're going to have a significantly harder time equalizing as you change altitude. Military aircraft change altitude MUCH faster than a civilian aircraft in some cases, so if you're sinuses aren't working correctly then it could case some major issues. Things like blowing your ear drums out or having extreme ear pain, nose bleeds, hearing loss, etc. If you were to experience those in flight it could jeopardize you, your crew, and the mission as a whole (IE they might have to land just for you).

/r
CTT1

Source: NAMI Aeromedical Reference and Waiver Guide

[blacktemplar]

Just wanted to stop by and say I'm jealous of all the aircrew types.
If I stay enlisted after I get outta Japan and cross rate to CTX, I'd love to join you all.

[FlyNavy]

Just wanted to stop by and say I'm jealous of all the aircrew types.
If I stay enlisted after I get outta Japan and cross rate to CTX, I'd love to join you all.

Unfortunately, for the most part flying CT's will be a thing of the past in the next few years. There will be a very small handful of billets left over, although they will typically be for guys who've already got their wings.

If you're looking for some fun though, UAVs might be possible for the right people/backgrounds, also Spec War is available for 2nd tour (2nd tour as a CT) guys.

/r
CTT1

[blacktemplar]

Unfortunately, for the most part flying CT's will be a thing of the past in the next few years. There will be a very small handful of billets left over, although they will typically be for guys who've already got their wings.

If you're looking for some fun though, UAVs might be possible for the right people/backgrounds, also Spec War is available for 2nd tour (2nd tour as a CT) guys.

/r
CTT1

Doesn't there have to be some sort of new blood with the P8s? I understand the numbers will dwindle though.
V/r
YNSN

[Cechols2010]

Im an e-1 in a-pact who leaves for rtc next week I want to become aircrew is this possible im eligible for advanement to e-2 in rtc and if so how do I go about becoming aircrew Ill take any rating in aircrew

[Haasino]

I start candidate school tomorrow. But over half my class will be on security hold after completion of candidate school, does anyone have any information on security holds?

Most training schools after NACCS require a Secret security clearance or higher, so people who's clearances haven't cleared yet are usually held at NACCS. It's a better deal, in my opinion... when I was at NACCS, you didn't need a liberty buddy and were treated like more of an adult than the NATTC side of base.

Im an e-1 in a-pact who leaves for rtc next week I want to become aircrew is this possible im eligible for advanement to e-2 in rtc and if so how do I go about becoming aircrew Ill take any rating in aircrew

So... this is not the answer you're going to want to hear, but I believe it's better to hear the truth even when it's bad news. Your chances of going Aircrew is very, very slim right now. Contrary to what some of the outdated job sheets show, you cannot volunteer for Aircrew duties from a non AW[x] rating... the notable exception being for CT types like CTT1 Griffin (Though that's closing with the sunset of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron One) and CS' on Air Force One.

You can study the Enlisted Community Managers (http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/enlisted/community/aviation/Pages/AW.aspx) page for more info... the short version is that AWO is closed to anyone but other Aircrew rates like AWF and AWV converting in... AWF is only open to E-5's in aviation maintenance rating for the E-6B Mercury and C-2 Greyhound... and AWV is not open for convert-in opportunities at all. The only possible option would be to go into the Naval Special Warfare program and try to Rescue Swimmer on the MH-60R or MH-60S helo's.

[FlyNavy]

Doesn't there have to be some sort of new blood with the P8s? I understand the numbers will dwindle though.
V/r
YNSN

I can't elaborate on here but the short answer is no.

A lot of the transition plans involving the EP-3 and it's personnel are still classified. But suffice to say it will be much different than what it is today, both manning and platform wise.

I got to attend a town-hall kind of meeting with all the head-honchos that are planning this whole thing though and I feel much more comfortable with what they want to do and how they want to do it. Although we as CT's will be doing the same thing, it will be very different at the same time.

There's your smoke and mirrors for the afternoon, courtesy of your friendly neighborhood spook!

/r
CTT1

[tasteytots]

I have lurked a couple times previously on this forum page to better inform myself about AIRC. I am currently shipping out to RTC on the 23rd and can not wait to get started.

It is nice to see that a lot of people are willing to jump on the ball and share as much information as they can to us new people entering the Navy and AIRC program.

With that said, I have seen that AIRC as AWS can go into Helos but seem to be going to the MH-53 like I have seen Haasino mention in previous comments. Though can an AIRC/AWS get placed on to a MH-60 or some other sort of helo? I spent some time at the airshow, speaking with a few Marine Aircrew and they shared that if I wanted to end up trying to get onto a helo/ rotary wing that I should let them know at some point in time at NACCS? I know things are at the needs of the navy, and with the switching to P-8s I hear most new AIRC are going AWO.

Completing NACCS and to be able to receive a rating within AW would be amazing no matter what it is given to me. Being apart of the aviation community with the Navy is what I have wanted since I can remember.

[FlyNavy]

I have lurked a couple times previously on this forum page to better inform myself about AIRC. I am currently shipping out to RTC on the 23rd and can not wait to get started.

It is nice to see that a lot of people are willing to jump on the ball and share as much information as they can to us new people entering the Navy and AIRC program.

With that said, I have seen that AIRC as AWS can go into Helos but seem to be going to the MH-53 like I have seen Haasino mention in previous comments. Though can an AIRC/AWS get placed on to a MH-60 or some other sort of helo?

AIRC guys won't be going on 60's. If that's what you want then AIRR is the route to go. The reason being is that MH-60 AWS's also function as rescue swimmers, which means you would need to go through RSS (rescue swimmer school), which puts you in that AIRR category.


I spent some time at the airshow, speaking with a few Marine Aircrew and they shared that if I wanted to end up trying to get onto a helo/ rotary wing that I should let them know at some point in time at NACCS? I know things are at the needs of the navy, and with the switching to P-8s I hear most new AIRC are going AWO.

It's fine if you want to give them a preference while you're there, but you're still going to get assigned per the needs of the Navy.

Basically, the LPO of the school house will get a list of how many spots of each rate that he needs to fill from each class. Now he may take student desires into account, or he may not. It also depends on what he's given; say maybe someone wants to go AWF but all he has are 20+ AWO quotas. In that situation, he wouldn't have a choice anyway even if he really wanted to give you something else. Make sense?

Completing NACCS and to be able to receive a rating within AW would be amazing no matter what it is given to me. Being a part of the aviation community with the Navy is what I have wanted since I can remember.

That's the right attitude to have. Keep up the motivation and hopefully you'll get to come fly with Hassino and I!

FLY NAVY!
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CTT1

[tasteytots]

AIRC guys won't be going on 60's. If that's what you want then AIRR is the route to go. The reason being is that MH-60 AWS's also function as rescue swimmers, which means you would need to go through RSS (rescue swimmer school), which puts you in that AIRR category.

It's fine if you want to give them a preference while you're there, but you're still going to get assigned per the needs of the Navy.

Basically, the LPO of the school house will get a list of how many spots of each rate that he needs to fill from each class. Now he may take student desires into account, or he may not. It also depends on what he's given; say maybe someone wants to go AWF but all he has are 20+ AWO quotas. In that situation, he wouldn't have a choice anyway even if he really wanted to give you something else. Make sense?

Thanks,

Definitely makes sense, I appreciate the answers. Have they moved people from AIRC to AIRR while they were at NACCS, or offered it if they felt the person had the ability to make it as an rescue swimmer? I know there is the PST for AIRR, I guess another situation based on the needs of the Navy?



That's the right attitude to have. Keep up the motivation and hopefully you'll get to come fly with Hassino and I!

Appreciate it, I will keep the drive and attitude! It would be an honor to fly with people like you two!!!

[FlyNavy]

Personally, I never saw them move someone from AIRC to AIRR while I was at NACCS, but that doesn't mean it couldn't happen. I'm not aware of any instruction that doesn't allow it, although not saying one doesn't exist.

CT's don't stay very long at all at NACCS compared to the straight out of boot camp guys (the huge majority of CT aircrew are fleet returnees, not new sailors), so maybe Hassino could add some on that one since he was there longer than I was.

If AIRR is something you want to do though, I would highly recommend you go in as such (ship as one I mean). RSS is physical but it's doable; it's not BUD/S. If your PST scores are good and you feel very comfortable in the water and swimming a lot, I would consider it.

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CTT1

[austin_andres]

I have lurked a couple times previously on this forum page to better inform myself about AIRC. I am currently shipping out to RTC on the 23rd and can not wait to get started.

It is nice to see that a lot of people are willing to jump on the ball and share as much information as they can to us new people entering the Navy and AIRC program.

With that said, I have seen that AIRC as AWS can go into Helos but seem to be going to the MH-53 like I have seen Haasino mention in previous comments. Though can an AIRC/AWS get placed on to a MH-60 or some other sort of helo? I spent some time at the airshow, speaking with a few Marine Aircrew and they shared that if I wanted to end up trying to get onto a helo/ rotary wing that I should let them know at some point in time at NACCS? I know things are at the needs of the navy, and with the switching to P-8s I hear most new AIRC are going AWO.

Completing NACCS and to be able to receive a rating within AW would be amazing no matter what it is given to me. Being apart of the aviation community with the Navy is what I have wanted since I can remember.

Hey I am at NACCS right now, I graduate on the 18th. AWS for the dry guys isn't given out very often, but it depends on your timing. The last few classes AWS was given out to a few guys because a AWS A-school class starts on the 15th. If there are available slots for AWS you will know before disney week, but make it known that you are interested in AWS. If there are slots, your instructors will pick between the people in your class who want AWS, they tend to preference to the best of your class (Class Leader, assistant, and cadence caller). If you are going dry AWS you will be on 53s and you will be stationed in Norfolk from what they have told us. Hope this helped, let me know if you have anymore questions.

[tasteytots]

Personally, I never saw them move someone from AIRC to AIRR while I was at NACCS, but that doesn't mean it couldn't happen. I'm not aware of any instruction that doesn't allow it, although not saying one doesn't exist.

CT's don't stay very long at all at NACCS compared to the straight out of boot camp guys (the huge majority of CT aircrew are fleet returnees, not new sailors), so maybe Hassino could add some on that one since he was there longer than I was.

If AIRR is something you want to do though, I would highly recommend you go in as such (ship as one I mean). RSS is physical but it's doable; it's not BUD/S. If your PST scores are good and you feel very comfortable in the water and swimming a lot, I would consider it.

/r
CTT1

That is cool I didn't know CT's actually are a part of NACCS, when do they usually leave or come to NACCS? AIRR is something that interests me, but talking to people and thinking about things I always seem to come back to AIRC. I have good PST scores. My ship date for AIRC is on the 23rd and do not want to wait any longer then I have too!!! I am pumped to go next week lol!




Hey I am at NACCS right now, I graduate on the 18th. AWS for the dry guys isn't given out very often, but it depends on your timing. The last few classes AWS was given out to a few guys because a AWS A-school class starts on the 15th. If there are available slots for AWS you will know before disney week, but make it known that you are interested in AWS. If there are slots, your instructors will pick between the people in your class who want AWS, they tend to preference to the best of your class (Class Leader, assistant, and cadence caller). If you are going dry AWS you will be on 53s and you will be stationed in Norfolk from what they have told us. Hope this helped, let me know if you have anymore questions.


That is awesome man, congrats for graduating soon!!! While in NACCS, how do you get put into the Class leader, Assistant, and Cadence Caller roles? I am older age wise, I know they technically won't treat me any different but maybe I will have that advantage over some of the younger ones going through NACCS? As awesome as it would be to be placed onto a helo, not going to be the end of the world if I don't. Specially since AW has so many amazing options to go down!

What have you got placed into rating wise within AW?

Any information on the base in Norfolk?

[FlyNavy]

That is cool I didn't know CT's actually are a part of NACCS, when do they usually leave or come to NACCS? AIRR is something that interests me, but talking to people and thinking about things I always seem to come back to AIRC. I have good PST scores. My ship date for AIRC is on the 23rd and do not want to wait any longer then I have too!!! I am pumped to go next week lol!

CT's go through the exact same NACCS you do; there's no difference training wise. Fleet returnees won't sit through the waiting periods to class up nearly as much as you guys will though. It costs a whole hell of a lot more to send a PO2/PO1 down there, pay them BAH, Per Diem, etc, etc; versus you guys who cost them significantly less. So they want to get those Fleet returnees in-and-out as fast as possible.

If you keep coming back to AIRC then just do it. There really isn't a bad job in Aircrew IMO. If you end up going P-8, enjoy it. THOSE THINGS ARE CUSH AS HELL! Actual bathrooms, nice chairs, new displays, the works. They're luxury compared to most P-3's haha

On the class leadership front, when I was there last year they usually picked a lot of the BUD/S Duds (guys who dropped from BUD/S and re-rated) since they have a little more time in than most of you guys do. If you have a Petty Officer in your class it'll be hit or miss on if they pick them. Petty Officers already have leadership experience from the Fleet, so it's better to get you junior guys in a leadership role in a training environment to help you develop.
**Note: That doesn't mean you suddenly outrank said Petty Officers. Don't be that guy that forgets that because you will be loudly and publically corrected in a hurry. Only saying that since some guys don't figure that out**

/r
CTT1

[tasteytots]

CT's go through the exact same NACCS you do; there's no difference training wise. Fleet returnees won't sit through the waiting periods to class up nearly as much as you guys will though. It costs a whole hell of a lot more to send a PO2/PO1 down there, pay them BAH, Per Diem, etc, etc; versus you guys who cost them significantly less. So they want to get those Fleet returnees in-and-out as fast as possible.

If you keep coming back to AIRC then just do it. There really isn't a bad job in Aircrew IMO. If you end up going P-8, enjoy it. THOSE THINGS ARE CUSH AS HELL! Actual bathrooms, nice chairs, new displays, the works. They're luxury compared to P-8's haha

On the class leadership front, when I was there last year they usually picked a lot of the BUD/S Duds (guys who dropped from BUD/S and re-rated) since they have a little more time in than most of you guys do. If you have a Petty Officer in your class it'll be hit or miss on if they pick them. Petty Officers already have leadership experience from the Fleet, so it's better to get you junior guys in a leadership role in a training environment to help you develop.
**Note: That doesn't mean you suddenly outrank said Petty Officers. Don't be that guy that forgets that because you will be loudly and publically corrected in a hurry. Only saying that since some guys don't figure that out**

/r
CTT1

Would be awesome to end up on a P-8, actual bathrooms for the win! Though the little kid in me wants to poke my head out the side of the helo and/ or the back of the fixed wing, while we are flying lol, I am sure there will be times to goof off. I know some one in CT but didn't know they could end up on fixed wings with us. As a CTT. obviously unsure of what that is, but what do you do if you don't mind me asking?

People that are BUD/S Duds aren't usually coming to NACCS as petty officers right? So I am guessing the Petty Officers coming through NACCS are usually some sort of CT that has been in for 8-12 years? If so will be nice having those people around with that type of experience being in the Navy for so long!!! Will the CT go through the whole training that we go through SERE school etc, after NACCS?


**Note: That doesn't mean you suddenly outrank said Petty Officers. Don't be that guy that forgets that because you will be loudly and publically corrected in a hurry. Only saying that since some guys don't figure that out**

Understandable, and a good reminder. I am hoping that being at my age, and the positions I have held as a civilian will work to my advantage in a lot of situations.

I appreciate you taking the time to answering all my questions!

[FlyNavy]

Would be awesome to end up on a P-8, actual bathrooms for the win! Though the little kid in me wants to poke my head out the side of the helo and/ or the back of the fixed wing, while we are flying lol, I am sure there will be times to goof off. I know some one in CT but didn't know they could end up on fixed wings with us. As a CTT. obviously unsure of what that is, but what do you do if you don't mind me asking?

Signals intelligence. Intercepting enemy signals of interest, determining what they are, how they're being used, what their intent is, what it all means in the big picture, etc. That's the core of all CT's; find the technical intelligence, process it, and determine what it all means for us as a nation and as war fighters.

Aka we find, track, and help eliminate the bad guys. There isn't an operation out there that doesn't need us to find the bad guys, track them, find out what they're doing, and help eliminate them.


People that are BUD/S Duds aren't usually coming to NACCS as petty officers right? So I am guessing the Petty Officers coming through NACCS are usually some sort of CT that has been in for 8-12 years? If so will be nice having those people around with that type of experience being in the Navy for so long!!! Will the CT go through the whole training that we go through SERE school etc, after NACCS?

The BUDS guys won't be PO's, you're correct.
The CT's you'll meet could be pretty new, but expect around 5-10 years of service on average.

As intelligence folks, we actually go through more SERE training than you will. After the initial SERE we have several follow-on courses that you guys won't go to. Be happy about that because they weren't fun haha


I appreciate you taking the time to answering all my questions!

Absolutely. Good on you for getting prepared ahead of time and I very much look forward to serving with you in the Fleet.

GET SOME!

/r
CTT1

[austin_andres]

That is cool I didn't know CT's actually are a part of NACCS, when do they usually leave or come to NACCS? AIRR is something that interests me, but talking to people and thinking about things I always seem to come back to AIRC. I have good PST scores. My ship date for AIRC is on the 23rd and do not want to wait any longer then I have too!!! I am pumped to go next week lol!







That is awesome man, congrats for graduating soon!!! While in NACCS, how do you get put into the Class leader, Assistant, and Cadence Caller roles? I am older age wise, I know they technically won't treat me any different but maybe I will have that advantage over some of the younger ones going through NACCS? As awesome as it would be to be placed onto a helo, not going to be the end of the world if I don't. Specially since AW has so many amazing options to go down!

What have you got placed into rating wise within AW?

Any information on the base in Norfolk?

I won't know my rating until i graduate, also a lot of us are going to be put on hold because it is taking forever to get security clearances... I am hoping for AWO, but all of aircrew looks pretty awesome so whatever i get ill be happy with. To get a leadership role you just need to be proactive and volunteer and then not mess up at all throughout school, its not too hard. I don't have any information on Norfolk, I have family there and they love it, but I have heard that most people don't really like it.

[tasteytots]

Signals intelligence. Intercepting enemy signals of interest, determining what they are, how they're being used, what their intent is, what it all means in the big picture, etc. That's the core of all CT's; find the technical intelligence, process it, and determine what it all means for us as a nation and as war fighters.

Aka we find, track, and help eliminate the bad guys. There isn't an operation out there that doesn't need us to find the bad guys, track them, find out what they're doing, and help eliminate them.




The BUDS guys won't be PO's, you're correct.
The CT's you'll meet could be pretty new, but expect around 5-10 years of service on average.

As intelligence folks, we actually go through more SERE training than you will. After the initial SERE we have several follow-on courses that you guys won't go to. Be happy about that because they weren't fun haha




Absolutely. Good on you for getting prepared ahead of time and I very much look forward to serving with you in the Fleet.

GET SOME!

/r
CTT1

I have been, told by a few people and recruiters that I seem to be the type that will enjoy and excel at SERE. It is definitely one of the parts I am most looking forward to. I can understand why you guys would have to go through some more SERE training then ourselves. Very intense I am assuming. " extreme camping" lol someone's post I read on this forum somewhere

Thank you, I have been all over the past couple months trying to gain all the knowledge that I can from who I can. I have had some good talks with a fellow redditor who is a instructor at an FRS school and this site has been amazing pool of knowledge!

I couldn't ask for more meeting the people who have passed knowledge on to me, yet possibly being able to serve by their side!!

I think I am in a good position going to RTC, hitting excellent line for the PFA in all categories for my age bracket. I obviously know my sailors creed and memorized all 11 general orders. Still haven't fully got down in detail how they want us to explain everyone's collar devices and patche etcs. But I do know how to recognize them and who is who!!

I won't know my rating until i graduate, also a lot of us are going to be put on hold because it is taking forever to get security clearances... I am hoping for AWO, but all of aircrew looks pretty awesome so whatever i get ill be happy with. To get a leadership role you just need to be proactive and volunteer and then not mess up at all throughout school, its not too hard. I don't have any information on Norfolk, I have family there and they love it, but I have heard that most people don't really like it.

Goodluck! Hopefully you will update us once you know!!! Any favorite parts so far of NACCS? Jeeez how long do security clearances take? I was thinking they would have those done before shipping, or do they not start them till later? I guess there are many factors that go into whether a person likes or dislikes a bass

[FlyNavy]

I have been, told by a few people and recruiters that I seem to be the type that will enjoy and excel at SERE. It is definitely one of the parts I am most looking forward to. I can understand why you guys would have to go through some more SERE training then ourselves. Very intense I am assuming. " extreme camping" lol someone's post I read on this forum somewhere

Oh it's much more than "camping" haha

I promise you will contemplate your entire life in there, who you are, why you're doing this, and how much it's really worth to you.

If you make it through however, you'll leave with what I can only describe as a PROFOUND new sense of what freedom means and the real sacrifice it takes to defend it. Not just the movie BS. The real deal.

/r
CTT1

[tasteytots]

Oh it's much more than "camping" haha

I promise you will contemplate your entire life in there, who you are, why you're doing this, and how much it's really worth to you.

/r
CTT1


LOL, I was thinking the same thing. Sounds like quite the adventure and experience to truly test every aspect of your self.
Even after NACCS, and A school do a lot of people have a hard time adjusting physically or mentally or even possible both when it comes to SERE school then?


If you make it through however, you'll leave with what I can only describe as a PROFOUND new sense of what freedom means and the real sacrifice it takes to defend it.

This hits the spot. It truly makes me think of whats to come and how lucky we are to have the chances to make something of ourselves not just in the Navy or for the matter at hand any other branch of military(Navy is the best!!!).. but within ourselves to provide something greater for the next generation, sometimes it truly blows my mind and I am glad to be a part of this. All this said might be cheesy to others, but I am ready to make a difference!

[FlyNavy]

LOL, I was thinking the same thing. Sounds like quite the adventure and experience to truly test every aspect of your self.
Even after NACCS, and A school do a lot of people have a hard time adjusting physically or mentally or even possible both when it comes to SERE school then?

Physically you'll be able to push through it, but that doesn't mean it sucks any less. The suck factor can get up there depending on what time of year you go. I even went through in a decent part of the year to be there and the suck was still significant haha It is what it is though. The more you "get into it" though the more you will get out of it.

Mentally, they will get inside your head and live there. It's not a matter of "if", it's how soon and how bad. Some people didn't do so hot and others did a little better. No matter what though, both you and the people around you will see sides of each other you never thought you would. It's eye opening to say the least.

/r
CTT1

[LT Guppy]

@tasteytots

Theres a thread with info about Norfolk. http://www.navydep.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7252

I'm stationed there so can answer more specific questions too.

[tasteytots]

Mentally, they will get inside your head and live there. It's not a matter of "if", it's how soon and how bad. Some people didn't do so hot and others did a little better. No matter what though, both you and the people around you will see sides of each other you never thought you would. It's eye opening to say the least.

/r
CTT1

Wow.. intense... Don't really know how else to comment on that!

What are some important things you would recommend to someone about to head into all this training?


@tasteytots

Theres a thread with info about Norfolk. http://www.navydep.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7252

I'm stationed there so can answer more specific questions too.

Thanks for the reply Guppy, I'll have to look over that forum!
All though what would be like to have my motorcycle up in Norfolk? Weather wise?

[LT Guppy]

Thanks for the reply Guppy, I'll have to look over that forum!
All though what would be like to have my motorcycle up in Norfolk? Weather wise?

Weather wise, not bad. You could ride comfortable most of the year.
However, traffic here can be a bit rough. I know two people in the last year who have had career ending motorcycle accidents here. Personally I wouldn't ride here, but a lot of people do.

[FlyNavy]

Wow.. intense... Don't really know how else to comment on that!

What are some important things you would recommend to someone about to head into all this training?

Don't over think things and just do exactly what they tell you.

Your job for the next few months isn't to think, it's to be a sled dog basically. There's a reason you're going to be taught certain things in the way they teach it, and usually those reasons are written in blood. So just keep a positive mental attitude and do it their way; you'll be fine :)

/r
CTT1

[tasteytots]

Don't over think things and just do exactly what they tell you.

Your job for the next few months isn't to think, it's to be a sled dog basically. There's a reason you're going to be taught certain things in the way they teach it, and usually those reasons are written in blood. So just keep a positive mental attitude and do it their way; you'll be fine :)

/r
CTT1

Thank you for the advice, I like the "sled dog" terminology lol :P. I will definitely be keeping all of the advice in mind!!

So I know as AW we get the automatic promote to E-4, but I have seen different answers on when we get it. Is it after A school?

I know an LS that go a promotion for finishing numero uno in his A school, is the possible in most training pipelines? Such as getting to E-5 before hitting the fleet? I mean I guess nothing is impossible?

[FlyNavy]

Thank you for the advice, I like the "sled dog" terminology lol :P. I will definitely be keeping all of the advice in mind!!

So I know as AW we get the automatic promote to E-4, but I have seen different answers on when we get it. Is it after A school?

I know an LS that go a promotion for finishing numero uno in his A school, is the possible in most training pipelines? Such as getting to E-5 before hitting the fleet? I mean I guess nothing is impossible?

You would get frocked to PO3 after A-school.

And no you shouldn't be hitting PO2/E5 before you're in the fleet, and that's not a bad thing. A Second Class Petty Officer is expected to be a technical expert in their job, starting to take on some more heavy responsibilities in the shop, and start looking to their 1st class to take some of those duties as well.

If you were to come to the shop as a PO2, with no experience, you would fail immediately and very publically. Not to say you aren't a hard worker or anything, but nothing can replicate the experience of a seasoned Petty Officer. Not having the proper training and background and then expecting you to perform at that level just sets you up for failure.

Rank is much more than just a pay grade in the Navy. I know some other branches don't quite look at it like that, but if you're wearing that rank on your collar then you better be performing to those standards. Getting up to those standards requires the experience you get from working your way up. You would also be required to lead the junior guys in the shop; how could you do that if that E3 has several years in that job and you're just showing up? You really gonna tell that guy how he needs to be doing his job? haha

Just some food for thought ^_^

/r
CTT1

[tasteytots]

You would get frocked to PO3 after A-school.

And no you shouldn't be hitting PO2/E5 before you're in the fleet, and that's not a bad thing. A Second Class Petty Officer is expected to be a technical expert in their job, starting to take on some more heavy responsibilities in the shop, and start looking to their 1st class to take some of those duties as well.

If you were to come to the shop as a PO2, with no experience, you would fail immediately and very publically. Not to say you aren't a hard worker or anything, but nothing can replicate the experience of a seasoned Petty Officer. Not having the proper training and background and then expecting you to perform at that level just sets you up for failure.

Rank is much more than just a pay grade in the Navy. I know some other branches don't quite look at it like that, but if you're wearing that rank on your collar then you better be performing to those standards. Getting up to those standards requires the experience you get from working your way up. You would also be required to lead the junior guys in the shop; how could you do that if that E3 has several years in that job and you're just showing up? You really gonna tell that guy how he needs to be doing his job? haha

Just some food for thought ^_^

/r
CTT1

This is great to hear. Specially like you said some other branches don't quite look at it like that. Its nice knowing that is what it takes to get to the next level. Your information is much appreciated and I enjoy the ideals and details you put in to answering all my questions!!! So I thank you for your food for thought that you continue to share!! Being older as well I am expecting to have leads/LPOs/ Officers well under my age, but have the experience so I am excited to learn from them and get where they are and have been.

[tasteytots]

Hey guys,

Another question, but shoes for working out and running during NACCS and later in program and fleet? I have seen what it looks like people wearing what they like, but wondering if there is a restriction on color? As I just got a pair of the Nike Olympic colored(volt/pink) running shoes :D and would totally rock them if allowed lol

[AWWannabe]

Is there any scuttlebutt on if the old way of aircrew selection is going to be reinstated within the next 4 years? I've gone through the thread and seen that the retirement of the P/EP-3 platforms is really screwing up the AWF and AWV rates, with some AWF's cross-rating to P-8 AWOs or C-2 and E-6B AWFs. My question is what happens once the CMV-22Bs start replacing the C-2s? I'm considering putting in DAR for AV alongside AW, should it look like AW's will soon be coming from the pool of maintainers rather than straight from boot camp. Should that be the case, before 2008, did aircrewmen come from their own squadrons? For example, could a maintainer from VFA or VAQ volunteer for AW and get assigned to VRC or HSM? Or is that maintainers volunteer, go to NACCS, complete whatever necessary training and then return to their squadrons as AWs?

[FlyNavy]

Is there any scuttlebutt on if the old way of aircrew selection is going to be reinstated within the next 4 years? I've gone through the thread and seen that the retirement of the P/EP-3 platforms is really screwing up the AWF and AWV rates, with some AWF's cross-rating to P-8 AWOs or C-2 and E-6B AWFs. My question is what happens once the CMV-22Bs start replacing the C-2s? I'm considering putting in DAR for AV alongside AW, should it look like AW's will soon be coming from the pool of maintainers rather than straight from boot camp. Should that be the case, before 2008, did aircrewmen come from their own squadrons? For example, could a maintainer from VFA or VAQ volunteer for AW and get assigned to VRC or HSM? Or is that maintainers volunteer, go to NACCS, complete whatever necessary training and then return to their squadrons as AWs?

They used to pull AT's to come be AWV's, but that is significantly less common today than it used to be. Still happens now and then, but it's much more rare.

And plenty of AW's are still going to be coming straight from boot camp. Don't sweat that. If you wanna fly, going AW is the surest way to do it. Everything else, like us flying CTTs for example, are special programs and much smaller and/or restrictive.

/r
CTT1

[roseDragon]

Do you have to enlist as an AIRR to be a helo crew member? I see this being said some places but when I look at the description for the Aircrew program (AW) it has AWS and AWR listed as rates you can be assigned after candidate school. Are there any "dry" helo rates anymore? I am working on getting an action request to switch rates to AW but I want to find some information first to make the best decision.

[FlyNavy]

Do you have to enlist as an AIRR to be a helo crew member? I see this being said some places but when I look at the description for the Aircrew program (AW) it has AWS and AWR listed as rates you can be assigned after candidate school. Are there any "dry" helo rates anymore? I am working on getting an action request to switch rates to AW but I want to find some information first to make the best decision.

AWS's can either go on CH-53's or MH-60S's.

For CH-53 bound folks RSS is not required; for MH-60 folks it is. Heading to CH-53 is what's considered "Dry". That name comes from the fact that you're not a rescue swimmer like your brothers and sisters on the MH-60.

AWRs are strictly "wet" and will be assigned to MH-60R squadrons as rescue swimmers and tactical operators (cool-guy term for you work the gear in the back lol).

For AWR/AWS guys on MH-60's, it really just comes down to what rate you're given after completing RSS. You come in as a candidate, finish NACCS, go over to RSS, and once done with all that then they'll assign you either AWR or AWS(wet). Dry AWS types are selected for their rates after NACCS, as they won't attend RSS. That doesn't mean after NACCS you become one yet however; you still have to go through A-school before being awarded that rate.

Overall there aren't a ton of Dry helo spots; my class only had like 2 out of 24-ish people. Also the MH-53's don't have the best safety record. In the time I've been in the Navy several have gone down during training exercises, and in some cases they lost the entire crew. It's rare but that's a serious thing you need to bear in mind if you go that route.

Flying overall though is very rewarding and very demanding both physically and mentally. SERE school is also no-joke (and you guys don't even have to go to the extra ones us Spooks do. So be glad!). So if that is a route you're able to take, you need to be preparing physically well ahead of time. If you wait until boot camp or when you get to NACCS to prepare physically then you're going to fail.

/r
CTT1

[roseDragon]

Thanks again CTT1,
You provided more in depth information in one day than i have found researching online for weeks. Are AWS's selected out of the AW program or are you required to get an AIRR contract before you go to NACCS? And just out of curiosity do people turn down the orders to the CH-53e billet because it is dangerous? I would kill for one of those billets :)

[FlyNavy]

Thanks again CTT1,
You provided more in depth information in one day than i have found researching online for weeks.

No worries! That's what we're here for.

Are AWS's selected out of the AW program or are you required to get an AIRR contract before you go to NACCS?

It depends on what kind of AWS we're talking about here:

Dry AWS types are selected at the end of NACCS. RSS won't be a factor for these sailors.

Guys going to RSS will complete NACCS, head to RSS, and upon completion will be given either AWR or AWS, depending on what they need at that time. They will be assigned to MH-60 squadrons.

And just out of curiosity do people turn down the orders to the CH-53e billet because it is dangerous? I would kill for one of those billets :)

I've never seen that. I've seen people who wanted something else and got sent 53's just because that's what they needed and were less than thrilled about it. I've also seen people request it and get it. So there's a spectrum.

And I'm also curious about how much you know about what a 53 crewman does? Just wondering about your motivations behind that specific platform is all.

/r
CTT1

[roseDragon]

I believe that the 53 guys do anti-mine operations with those big skimmer things that are in the back of the helo. And to be honest thats all I know, not to much info on this billet. Is there anything else that they do? I always thought that those helos would be so cool to maintain and operate, also the fact that it seems like a small community which appeals to me.

[Diverdee90]

My son is an AWF stationed in Oklahoma and is loving it... He should be graduating and moving over to Squadron within the next week or 2, he is definitely enjoying flying a ton and learning so much. I want to thank you guys for this thread and always answering questions.... Best of luck to all and thank you all for your service....

[BWWhite2275]

I am currently talking to a recruiter and I eat to go be AWR or AWS. I'm confused as to what steps I should take to have the best opportunity of getting AIRR. Outside of passing all requirements and asvab, is there any additional steps I can take to set my self up to pursue AWR & AWS?

[FlyNavy]

I am currently talking to a recruiter and I eat to go be AWR or AWS. I'm confused as to what steps I should take to have the best opportunity of getting AIRR. Outside of passing all requirements and asvab, is there any additional steps I can take to set my self up to pursue AWR & AWS?

Answered via message but I will repost here:

Rescue Swimmer is considered a "challenge program", so if you meet the requirements physically there is a high chance you'll get a shot.

Specifically you should be talking to your area Spec War Motivator. They're a point of contact in the area for challenge program applicants.

Talk to your recruiter about it. But aside from voicing your desire and being able to meet the requirements, it isn't that hard of a process to get a shot at it.

/r
CTT1

[tasteytots]

Orders to NACCS, only 18days long? Thought it was much longer then that?
And classifications also said A school is now 18days? Anyone have any idea what is going on?

[FlyNavy]

Orders to NACCS, only 18days long? Thought it was much longer then that?
And classifications also said A school is now 18days? Anyone have any idea what is going on?

The course length itself is listed on paper as 19 days, but that's actual training days; not the amount of time you'll actually spend there. So that may be what they're referring to and it's just getting lost in translation. You'll still have plenty of time in holding waiting to class up, extra PT days if you fail something, weekends and holidays, all kinds of things could happen. Most people spend a couple months there before moving on to their respective A-schools. Take a look at your orders and look for anything that is temporary duty; that's most likely where the rest of your time there is.

Even as a Fleet Returnee, which they try to get through as soon as possible, I was still there from October to December.

/r
CTT1

[PhildoBaggins]

Ok, I have searched all over the internet, and have not found a decent answer. And yes, this is a serious question, haha. How you use the bathroom when you're on a mission? I read before on this thread that the P-8s have a "real bathroom", but what about the smaller planes and helos?

[FlyNavy]

Ok, I have searched all over the internet, and have not found a decent answer. And yes, this is a serious question, haha. How you use the bathroom when you're on a mission? I read before on this thread that the P-8s have a "real bathroom", but what about the smaller planes and helos?

Helos I have no idea. They don't fly for that long anyway so it's probably just suck it up.

On P-3's and EP-3's it's basically a little tower with an opening at the top. We call it an R2-D2 haha The trainee's usually empty it after each flight and hang it up.

P-8's have a working head and have it suctioned out after each flight, just like a regular commercial flight.

/r
CTT1

[PhildoBaggins]

Helos I have no idea. They don't fly for that long anyway so it's probably just suck it up.

On P-3's and EP-3's it's basically a little tower with an opening at the top. We call it an R2-D2 haha The trainee's usually empty it after each flight and hang it up.

P-8's have a working head and have it suctioned out after each flight, just like a regular commercial flight.

/r
CTT1

So basically, do not eat anything crazy that might give you the runs then? Lol, poor R2D2. Glad to know that will be one of the things that I can possibly look forward to if I get AIRC when I go to MEPS. I guess I will have to invest in some Vicks Vapo Rub for the nostrils. hahahaha.

[FlyNavy]

So basically, do not eat anything crazy that might give you the runs then? Lol, poor R2D2. Glad to know that will be one of the things that I can possibly look forward to if I get AIRC when I go to MEPS. I guess I will have to invest in some Vicks Vapo Rub for the nostrils. hahahaha.

We call taking a dump on the plane "breaking the code", as in its just the accepted code that you don't. Some people still do (there's a way to do it but it's not especially fun), and are then on known as Code Breakers haha There's even a pretty tongue in cheek patch about it that some people have (especially in the EP community, since we do intel anyway it makes it more of a joke).

/r
CTT1

PS: If you go AIRC now you're going P-8. P-3 and EP-3 are getting phased out. So enjoy that nice cushy Boeing haha

[PhildoBaggins]

We call taking a dump on the plane "breaking the code", as in its just the accepted code that you don't. Some people still do (there's a way to do it but it's not especially fun), and are then on known as Code Breakers haha There's even a pretty tongue in cheek patch about it that some people have (especially in the EP community, since we do intel anyway it makes it more of a joke).

/r
CTT1

PS: If you go AIRC now you're going P-8. P-3 and EP-3 are getting phased out. So enjoy that nice cushy Boeing haha

Cool. Thanks for the info. I will keep in mind, if I get AIRC, not to eat at any crazy restaurants before a flight. Also nice to hear I would be on a cushy Boeing, so I retract my previous statement about the Vicks. haha. My recruiter sent all my paperwork "up" to be reviewed, and said I should hopefully be able to schedule my MEPS visit in a few weeks.

On another note, Happy Veterans Day to all you active and prior service members, and Thank You for your service!

[Kobynewport]

I'm depping in My rate is AW and I leave in a few weeks. I was wondering when they gave me my specifics rate such as AWF?

[FlyNavy]

I'm depping in My rate is AW and I leave in a few weeks. I was wondering when they gave me my specifics rate such as AWF?

You'll get assigned at the end of NACCS. You can let the instructor know you have a preference, but it really just comes down to what's available that specific rotation and where they slot you. My class for instance only had like maybe 2 folks get AWF. Some rotations might not have it though since AWF is drawing down fleet wide with the P-3's being phased out. The rest were AWO (P-8) and then myself and the other CT types obviously stayed CT.

/r
CTT1

[NavyHooyah]

I just went to MEPS with the intension of signing as AIRC, unfortunately it wasn't available so I signed as a CTN. I really want to travel and my understanding is CTNs do not travel, also I have no computer experience. All the sailors I've been talking to say CTN is a great job with good advancement, great training in the field, and amazing jobs outside of the navy. I don't ship until Nov so I could easily change my rate until then. But what I'm wondering is should I keep CTN and be happy with my free training in the field and nice jobs when I get out, or be Aircrew and travel the world on the navy's dime and enjoy per diem and flight pay. Also, what can AWOs do for a living outside the navy?

[FlyNavy]

I just went to MEPS with the intension of signing as AIRC, unfortunately it wasn't available so I signed as a CTN. I really want to travel and my understanding is CTNs do not travel, also I have no computer experience. All the sailors I've been talking to say CTN is a great job with good advancement, great training in the field, and amazing jobs outside of the navy. I don't ship until Nov so I could easily change my rate until then. But what I'm wondering is should I keep CTN and be happy with my free training in the field and nice jobs when I get out, or be Aircrew and travel the world on the navy's dime and enjoy per diem and flight pay. Also, what can AWOs do for a living outside the navy?

So the biggest thing I want to touch on right off the bat is this idea that you can easily just change rates in DEP. That's not the case. You can put in a "request" via the DAR process (DEP Action Request), but at the end of the day you signed for the rate you did. You made an agreement between you and the Navy that you would enlist in order to be provided that training. So from now on you need to be under the assumption that you'll be shipping for that rate. Anything that happens besides that is something special and not the norm. The reason I say that is we as an organization wouldn't be able to function if we had our anticipated numbers being all over the place and unpredictable if people were changing all the time. It was up to you to sign the paper so they're expecting you to keep your word.

None of that is to say though that what you signed makes you "in" the Navy yet, however. You're not gonna be held to that enlistment until you actually sign your enlistment contract on the day you ship. I just wanted you to be aware that getting your rate changed isn't as simple as just changing your mind.

-break-break-

As a current Aircrewman, I can also answer some of your aircrew questions.

So flight pay and per diem are cool and all, but it's really not THAT significantly more money than you get other places. You could still make a fat check getting sub pay, hazard duty pay on a ship, etc.

Travel is good and you'll definitely get to see some new places and experience new things. If you've never been outside the country before, doing so via aircrew is a great way to go.

AWOs outside the Navy can get into more government work if they'd like or do some contracting gigs with some civilian firms. Like anyone else as well, they can always get training on whatever they want on the Navy's dime (Tuition Assistance and GI Bill) to go pursue whatever career they'd like!

Navy side for your career, there are tons of opportunities outside of just flying ASW/MARPAT missions as well once you're done with your first tour. Not many that I can talk about here, but there is a large pool of different opportunities within that community.

/r
CTT1

[bwall0430]

I'm graduating NACCS soon and was curious about the active duty side of AWF as well as AWS dry. These are the two common billets being given out right now. Where can you get stationed as an AWF and is it a decent gig?

[FlyNavy]

I'm graduating NACCS soon and was curious about the active duty side of AWF as well as AWS dry. These are the two common billets being given out right now. Where can you get stationed as an AWF and is it a decent gig?

I'm assuming you're asking about the FE track, and not the FTS route.

I'm not an FE myself so I can't speak to everything for them, but they do work long hours and are pretty involved with maintenance; much more so than the rest of us. That being said though, you're flying a lot more you're in the cockpit 90% of the time, and you get a great rapport with your pilots.

Since P-3s and my beloved EP-3 are destined to go away, most FEs that aren't in the community already can most likely expect to head to platforms like the C2 and I also think they might be taking a few people down at Tinker AFB for the E-6B. Additionally, AWFs that aren't FEs will serve as Loadmasters in VR squadrons.

Either way, you're flying. And flying is pretty dope.

Fly Navy!

/r
CTT1

*EDIT*
Just took a look at the AWF community sheet; it indeed looks like most of their new folks are headed for E-6B and C-2 platforms.

[bwall0430]

I'm assuming you're asking about the FE track, and not the FTS route.

I'm not an FE myself so I can't speak to everything for them, but they do work long hours and are pretty involved with maintenance; much more so than the rest of us. That being said though, you're flying a lot more you're in the cockpit 90% of the time, and you get a great rapport with your pilots.

Since P-3s and my beloved EP-3 are destined to go away, most FEs that aren't in the community already can most likely expect to head to platforms like the C2 and I also think they might be taking a few people down at Tinker AFB for the E-6B. Additionally, AWFs that aren't FEs will serve as Loadmasters in VR squadrons.

Either way, you're flying. And flying is pretty dope.

Fly Navy!

/r
CTT1

*EDIT*
Just took a look at the AWF community sheet; it indeed looks like most of their new folks are headed for E-6B and C-2 platforms. Thank you so much for the reply, not a whole lot of info on these two rates that's available haha. How about the dry AWS side? I understand you're flying on 53's and only out in Norfolk. What exactly do they do? Also, aren't the c-2's getting phased out? That's what we were told at least

[FlyNavy]

Thank you so much for the reply, not a whole lot of info on these two rates that's available haha. How about the dry AWS side? I understand you're flying on 53's and only out in Norfolk. What exactly do they do? Also, aren't the c-2's getting phased out? That's what we were told at least

C-2s are planning on getting phased out for V-22s. The Navy is buying about 4 a year and they're looking at making the full transition around 2021. Personally I think transferring the COD mission to V-22 is insanely dumb, so I'd expect they're going to run into plenty of issues along the way that might delay that timeline. So yes it's in the works, but it's not happening for a while.

53's I can't really speak to that much since I've never worked with them. I know they do a ton of mine clearing work though.

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CTT1

[AirCrew_dad]

Just want to confirm something. My sons is almost done with NACCS (the PT, swimming, dunker etc.) and should graduate next week while he awaits moving on to A-School. Are you saying he will get his rating AW(F/O/V) BEFORE A-School and his A-School is affected by that rating, or does he get assigned that rating AFTER A-School itself? Thanks again!!

[bwall0430]

Just want to confirm something. My sons is almost done with NACCS (the PT, swimming, dunker etc.) and should graduate next week while he awaits moving on to A-School. Are you saying he will get his rating AW(F/O/V) BEFORE A-School and his A-School is affected by that rating, or does he get assigned that rating AFTER A-School itself? Thanks again!!

He’ll get his rating before he leaves NACCS and go to A school for that particular rate.

[BobL]

I'm assuming you're asking about the FE track, and not the FTS route.

I'm not an FE myself so I can't speak to everything for them, but they do work long hours and are pretty involved with maintenance; much more so than the rest of us. That being said though, you're flying a lot more you're in the cockpit 90% of the time, and you get a great rapport with your pilots.

Since P-3s and my beloved EP-3 are destined to go away, most FEs that aren't in the community already can most likely expect to head to platforms like the C2 and I also think they might be taking a few people down at Tinker AFB for the E-6B. Additionally, AWFs that aren't FEs will serve as Loadmasters in VR squadrons.

Either way, you're flying. And flying is pretty dope.

Fly Navy!

/r
CTT1

*EDIT*
Just took a look at the AWF community sheet; it indeed looks like most of their new folks are headed for E-6B and C-2 platforms.

My daughter graduated NACCS 11-22-17 and I believe her entire class went AWF. She is currently at FRS in Norfolk. She is training for C-2's.

[Savi]

I hope someone can help me out, but I’m currently undes in the fleet, im wondering if anyone knows how hard it is to get a package excepted to cross rate over to AWS. I’ve been doing everything I need to submit it, I’ve done flight physical, second class swim test, I qual with my asvab score and my Pfa. I just need a 1306 and once I get that I’ll be good. Any information on if it is hard or how long it could take would be great, thank you.

[Rbishop]

ASVAB waivers for line scores? I’m one point off from qualifying for aircrew, what are the chances of actually getting the rate? Currently in DEP as An-pact, had the recruiter submit a DAR and he seems fairly confident the waiver will go through

[FutureAWOOOO]

Hello all, this is my first post on this site so I do apologize if I do anything wrong. Anyway, I’m scheduled to ship out to RTC 20200825, of course followed by NACCS. I’m already training my butt off as I’m not in ideal physical shape and I was wondering what else I could do to be ready for the challenges ahead. I am much more worried about the challenges in NACCS as that is known for being so demanding. If anyone has information about that, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

[sweetmtn]

Hello all, this is my first post on this site so I do apologize if I do anything wrong. Anyway, I’m scheduled to ship out to RTC 20200825, of course followed by NACCS. I’m already training my butt off as I’m not in ideal physical shape and I was wondering what else I could do to be ready for the challenges ahead. I am much more worried about the challenges in NACCS as that is known for being so demanding. If anyone has information about that, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

First let me say welcome aboard...there are a couple here in that rate, they will get back to you soon if they are not deployed.

[eli]

Hey, currently in DEP for Navy Aircrew and leave at the beginning of next month. Recently I've heard lots of people saying that it's a pretty common thing to be rerated for medical reasons. Was just wondering if anyone has any insight on this. A few months ago, when I was doing my MEPS physical, I failed the depth perception test (which is pretty common from what I've heard), was very bummed, a couple days later I went to a civilian eye doctor, to get my depth perception done, and passed it getting all of them correct. Got the form and MEPS approved it getting me the AIRC contract. Does anyone think they would rerate me for failing it at MEPS?

[sweetmtn]

I would think if MEPS accepted it, you should be good to go.