I'll add a slightly different perspective about the enlistment route.
In 1981, I did enlist. The unit I enlisted in (192d TFG, VaANG) selected me as an alternate. I did get a slot when another ANG unit couldn't fill an open slot. I went to AMS, then UPT. At UPT (CAFB), my blood pressure acted up and I was grounded. I returned to Virginia and was processed for discharge.
In the meantime, I looked for a non-aviation slot in the Army NG. That worked and I retained all associated benefits, including Montgomery GI Bill. That helped pay for my flight training (60% after private license). I didn't plan it this way, but the second income and the flight training benefits turned out to be a nice insurance policy.
I did all of this while I was a F/A at a major airline. For the most part, they complied with all laws pertaining to time off for required military training. The only time I ran into a problem, I didn't back down and they didn't try to pull the same tactic with me again. Now, I'm retired from the ARNG, and fly at CMR.
A good friend of mine is an intell officer with the A-10 unit in Battle Creek. He flies with NetJets. He likes his situation.
Good luck...fly safe!
In 1981, I did enlist. The unit I enlisted in (192d TFG, VaANG) selected me as an alternate. I did get a slot when another ANG unit couldn't fill an open slot. I went to AMS, then UPT. At UPT (CAFB), my blood pressure acted up and I was grounded. I returned to Virginia and was processed for discharge.
In the meantime, I looked for a non-aviation slot in the Army NG. That worked and I retained all associated benefits, including Montgomery GI Bill. That helped pay for my flight training (60% after private license). I didn't plan it this way, but the second income and the flight training benefits turned out to be a nice insurance policy.
I did all of this while I was a F/A at a major airline. For the most part, they complied with all laws pertaining to time off for required military training. The only time I ran into a problem, I didn't back down and they didn't try to pull the same tactic with me again. Now, I'm retired from the ARNG, and fly at CMR.
A good friend of mine is an intell officer with the A-10 unit in Battle Creek. He flies with NetJets. He likes his situation.
Good luck...fly safe!