Air Liaison Officer

[NavinRJohnson]

I noticed a few National Guard outfits were posting Air Liaison Officer spots available. Looks like its a non-flying billet for pilots. I'm a Navy puke getting out and was wondering if anyone could shed some light on this position. From what I understand it's rather like a Marine Forward Air Controller (FAC).

Specifically, what does this job entail? Also, if I take a job like this could it be beneficial later and lead to a flying billet within the same guard unit? I would not want to be locked into this position and never escape, as sometimes happens.

Thanks in advance for the info...

Hasta, Navin

 

[hawg2hawk]

I noticed a few National Guard outfits were posting Air Liaison Officer spots available. Looks like its a non-flying billet for pilots. I'm a Navy puke getting out and was wondering if anyone could shed some light on this position. From what I understand it's rather like a Marine Forward Air Controller (FAC).

Specifically, what does this job entail? Also, if I take a job like this could it be beneficial later and lead to a flying billet within the same guard unit? I would not want to be locked into this position and never escape, as sometimes happens.

Thanks in advance for the info...

Hasta, Navin

It's exactly the same as being a marine forward air controller, except you're wearing an air force uniform. On active duty, this is normally considered an alpha tour, which means you (generally) get your pick of follow-on assignments, but in the guard I would bet that it's a career choice. I was a Battalion ALO for awhile on active duty, and saw the same guard announcements when I got out, but avoided them like the plague.
Having said that, if you like hanging out with the army and jumping out of airplanes, it might be your thing. You can PM me for more info if you'd like.

 

[bssthound]

From what I understand it's a way to get your foot in the door at some fighter units. I'm sure some contributors can tell you a lot more than I but I have heard of more than one guy going that route to end up in a fast mover cockpit.

 

[NavinRJohnson]

Thanks for the info...

Boise has both C-130's and A-10's, and I'd be a happy person flying either. I'm open to the idea if it leads to a foot in the door, but like hawg2hawk replied, I wouldn't want ALO as a career choice in the guard.

Guess it's roll the dice time.

Hasta, Navin

 

[bssthound]

Boise is a great unit. I went through RF-4C training back when the IDANG was doing all the Guard Recce training. What a fabulous experience; best 6 month period of my life. A Great unit in a Great city. That was 1989, however; I don't know how californicated Boise has become since then.