There are many reasons why you should become a Marine Corps Pilot. In fact, there are more reasons than I could reasonably expect to include in this article, so I’m going to give you a few that are usually high on everyone’s list.
1. Being a Marine – The Marine Corps has a reputation that precedes it. The band also has a long and proud history starting with its founding at the Tun Tavern, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Naval aviation also has a long history beginning with the first naval aviator, 1st LT Alfred A. Cunningham, and continuing with the men and women who fly today.
2. Traveling – as an expeditionary force … There is always a naval presence off the coast which has potential trouble spots. Marine pilots are deployed on Navy ships and can also operate from coastal bases. This gives the Corps flexibility when planning missions.
3. Osprey- The MV-22 Tilt Rotor is the Marine Corps’ newest aircraft. It is neither an airplane nor a helicopter. It is classified as a powered lift aircraft which means it is able to take off and land vertically (like a helicopter), but when in cruise it behaves like an airplane. The Osprey has several advantages over the helicopter it replaces as well as other helicopters in general. The Osprey can fly twice as fast, cruise at altitudes of up to 25,000 feet, and has a range six times that of the helicopter it replaces.
4. They Pay You – Believe it or not, the Marine Corps will pay you to fly their plane. In fact, the pay is very good. In addition, you will receive 30 days of paid vacation per year.
5. Being Part of the Team – You will get a lot of satisfaction knowing that you are part of the Marine Corps Air-Ground team.