Originally Posted by Ripper

This is an exceptionally interesting topic. Of all the things at SWA I find distasteful, the disrespect toward our military members and veterans is the most vexing. These are genuine American heroes, who’ve sacrificed in untold ways for the security of our nation.



Perhaps, many years ago, there were some military-trained pilots who were exclusive of those among us who come from non-military backgrounds, who cut their teeth flying checks, towing banners, teaching at the local FBO, or in the countless other honorable ways in which hours, experience, and reputations were built. That is surely not the case any more.



Now, I see blatant, sometimes hateful disrespect toward our veterans, as if the quirky and awkward behavior of the [very] few is somehow an indictment of the entire cohort. Let us judge each man and woman on his or her ability and achievements, not on the musings of a few envious misfits from old long since.



Having earnestly endeavored to understand and appreciate both sides of the what-did-you-do-before-this fence, I’ve learned a great deal. Our all-civilian colleagues have delt with poorly maintained equipment, crushing workloads, and untold financial debt. Our military colleagues have mastered aviation as a background task to the impossibly complex and demanding missions they’ve been called on to execute.



Each has value and each has challenges that are beyond the casual understanding of even those among us who are invested in educating themselves on the matter.



I do know this, with only six or so weeks of specific training, regardless of background, we’re all SWA pilots. Each brings his own brand of experience, wisdom, and airmanship. To hell with those who are too dumb to understand and respect it.



To our military members and veterans, a warm and heart-felt thank you for what you’re doing and have done for those who are too uninformed to understand or appreciate it. To our brethren who’ve come up through the all-civilian path, thank you for investing yourself so fully in your craft so as to reach the pinnacle of the career.



It is a pleasure — and a privilege — to work with all of you!

Originally Posted by Ripper

This is an exceptionally interesting topic. Of all the things at SWA I find distasteful, the disrespect toward our military members and veterans is the most vexing. These are genuine American heroes, who’ve sacrificed in untold ways for the security of our nation.
Perhaps, many years ago, there were some military-trained pilots who were exclusive of those among us who come from non-military backgrounds, who cut their teeth flying checks, towing banners, teaching at the local FBO, or in the countless other honorable ways in which hours, experience, and reputations were built. That is surely not the case any more.
Now, I see blatant, sometimes hateful disrespect toward our veterans, as if the quirky and awkward behavior of the [very] few is somehow an indictment of the entire cohort. Let us judge each man and woman on his or her ability and achievements, not on the musings of a few envious misfits from old long since.

Originally Posted by Ripper

This is an exceptionally interesting topic. Of all the things at SWA I find distasteful, the disrespect toward our military members and veterans is the most vexing. These are genuine American heroes, who’ve sacrificed in untold ways for the security of our nation.



Perhaps, many years ago, there were some military-trained pilots who were exclusive of those among us who come from non-military backgrounds, who cut their teeth flying checks, towing banners, teaching at the local FBO, or in the countless other honorable ways in which hours, experience, and reputations were built. That is surely not the case any more.



Now, I see blatant, sometimes hateful disrespect toward our veterans, as if the quirky and awkward behavior of the [very] few is somehow an indictment of the entire cohort.

Originally Posted by CLMP

I can’t tell if this is a joke or not. I have never worked for an airline that is more pro-military than SWA. The halls of the training center look like a Colonel’s attic. The words “Rules Of Engagement” appear on the study guides for CQ every year, for some reason (We’re flying from PHX to ABQ, not performing a dog fight for crying out loud). I think we like to rib some of the military guys just because some can’t seem to let it go. I’ve worked for other airlines, but I don’t still wear their lanyard. I agree that we have some great former military guys who won’t tell you about it unless you ask. As for the others, drop the call sign. We’re going to CLE, not Kabul.

Originally Posted by tm602

I don’t want to sound harsh but you kind of brought this on yourself. Now I wasn’t a fighter pilot, just an enlisted Marine. To understand the military mindset is an impossibility for a civilian. Your world is different than ours. Perhaps if you ever experienced true self sacrifice, real discomfort and had your life threatened for the safety and rights of others, and learned real brotherhood you’d get it. And no, frats don’t count. But I guess its just easier to make fun of others. A little kidding around is fine and even enjoyed, but the disparaging attitude from some is just offputting.

Originally Posted by tm602

I don’t want to sound harsh but you kind of brought this on yourself. Now I wasn’t a fighter pilot, just an enlisted Marine. To understand the military mindset is an impossibility for a civilian. Your world is different than ours. Perhaps if you ever experienced true self sacrifice, real discomfort and had your life threatened for the safety and rights of others, and learned real brotherhood you’d get it. And no, frats don’t count. But I guess its just easier to make fun of others. A little kidding around is fine and even enjoyed, but the disparaging attitude from some is just offputting.

Originally Posted by tm602

I don’t want to sound harsh but you kind of brought this on yourself. Now I wasn’t a fighter pilot, just an enlisted Marine. To understand the military mindset is an impossibility for a civilian. Your world is different than ours. Perhaps if you ever experienced true self sacrifice, real discomfort and had your life threatened for the safety and rights of others, and learned real brotherhood you’d get it. And no, frats don’t count. But I guess its just easier to make fun of others. A little kidding around is fine and even enjoyed, but the disparaging attitude from some is just offputting.

Originally Posted by tm602

I don’t want to sound harsh but you kind of brought this on yourself. Now I wasn’t a fighter pilot, just an enlisted Marine. To understand the military mindset is an impossibility for a civilian. Your world is different than ours. Perhaps if you ever experienced true self sacrifice, real discomfort and had your life threatened for the safety and rights of others, and learned real brotherhood you’d get it. And no, frats don’t count. But I guess its just easier to make fun of others. A little kidding around is fine and even enjoyed, but the disparaging attitude from some is just offputting.