Where can I get the best naval recommendation letters?

2016-06-21T09:32:56-04:00

I'm sure by now alot of you guys are tired of my aviation questions. This may be my last one guys (probably not). But I need some strong recommendation letters. I'm going full throttle applying to be a naval aviator, and with a less than wowing GPA I'm relying pretty heavily on a kick ass astb and strong recommendation letters. Only problem is I'm in the Army and don't have many aviation connections. I'm getting some from my own unit, but I'm trying to land at least one from a naval officer, preferably a pilot or NFO. No idea how to do this though. Any tips? I do have some time, so building up a rapport with said recommendation writer is possible. Thanks guys.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 21 at 2016 12:03 PM

2016-06-21T12:03:18-04:00

Sir you're a pilot, and LTJG Private RallyPoint Member needs a Naval Aviator connection. Perhaps you could talk to him?

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2016 2:19 AM

2016-06-22T02:19:08-04:00

I don't have the time for details at the moment, but I can get you some answers and good information. I'll check back in roughly 12 hours.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2016 5:32 PM

2016-06-29T17:32:01-04:00

SPC Ladolcetta - Sorry for the late response. While it probably won't hurt to get a letter from a Naval Aviator, he/she has no real idea who you are or your qualities or traits especially when it comes to becoming a naval aviator. They have never worked with you and never had you work for them. The best letters you can get are from your chain of command who know you better than anyone else.

You should "get" letters form a very senior enlisted person (Who knows you best), you platoon commander, your company commander, a O-5/6 and a General Officer. I was already a Naval Officer in 2001 when I applied to transfer and enter flight school. I had my CO (O-5), my Carrier Airwing Commander (O-6), and my Admiral (O-8) "write" letters for me. That O-6 by the way just retired as NORTHCOM commander (ADM Gortney).

So "getting" or "writing" letters. I wrote my letters for each of the individuals so they could tweak them and then sign them. I would speak to your chain of command and see how they would like to handle that. Whether you write the letters and they edit or they write them for you, just be prepared to write them yourself. You can show enthusiasm for naval aviation but you want to highlight your career achievements and what you will bring to the Navy. What kind of leadership traits do you have, what kind of analytical skills do you have? How can you make the Navy better?

In the Navy you are a leader first, and officer second, an administrator third, and an aviator last. I will expand on that more tomorrow when I get back into work if you want.

Also quick question, what program are you attempting to enter the Navy through? That might have some weight to what you put it the letters.

Feel free to ask more questions. There really are not stupid questions.

Response by A1C Ian Williams made Jan 8 at 2018 10:09 PM

2018-01-08T22:09:48-05:00

Great post. Good advice.