If being a Bushpilot is his target (great decision BTW IMO) a College or University degree is definitely not required (or even desirable)
No, but respectfully, for his GI Bill it is......
CybrSlydr you will need to enroll in an accredited program for your GI Bill to apply (you can't go to a local FBO and start flying with a CFI). However, if you're in a degree program, and a PPL, commercial, twin, and commercial rating is part of that, then the Bill covers it (this is a recent change....previously the Bill would not cover the basic license...it would cover all subsequent ratings however...I've no idea why it was that way). Remember also that the Bill pays a good chunk of your housing as well, which is probably a bigger bonus (people tend to forget that). So you're generally talking a University or Technical school that has an "Accredited" program. Look there first and do no hesitate to shop around.
Since you've suffered an injury, ensure you can pass the Class I physical for commercial flying. No point in trying to become a commercial pilot if you're going to fail the physical every year. They have gotten easier regards disabilities of late, but anything cardiac is automatically suspect (blood pressure, murmers, etc). I personally would go for what I want to do, but ensure I had a good back up plan.
Also, DO NOT lose your patience with the GI Bill process....it can be a pain and requires a bit of patience and you must have your sh*t straight....but it does kick in and once it's running you need only touch their web site once a month or so. My experience with most Veteran's who complain about the VA or the GI Bill is that they don't have the patience, the records, or the inclination to do what they must do.
One other bit of advice.....I know you were hit downrange....but if you can stay in the Reserve Component, do so. That can be Guard or Army Reserve, or even another Service's Reserve Component, but do not walk away from that unless you are physically unable to stay in. You will not regret that later. Also, whether you know it or not, you're addicted to the adrenalin. I'm sure the veteran's in the forum will weigh in on this, but I constantly compare what I do in my civilian life with what I did in the service and while I have a fulfilling and enjoyable career, I
ALWAYS come up short (and I work in DOD right now). Many of our RC personnel at my current job are on tour for that same reason. They have jobs and responsibilities elsewhere, but they have to come back for their "fix" periodically.
If you're interested in an Air Guard unit in GA, FL, or IL I can put in touch with some folks....might have to become a commo geek......but it's fun (they also give you money for education).
P.S. FSX is an excellent training aid.
P.P.S. I know the "bush pilots" depicted on these reality shows seem to be seat of the pants flyers and renegades, but when you peel it back you find most of them are pretty well educated. Remember your Infantry Battalion commander probably had at least a Master's Degree and will likely be going onto the War College for another one. My Brigade CSM has two Master's under his belt and is preparing for a Doctorate program. I myself am working on my second Master's and Air War College (and I was a an Army dude). What' I'm trying to say is...you need that.
FSX might turn out to be an invaluable training aid once I figure some things out.
). Whle the 'white shirt airlines' may put a lot of credence in resumes, the bush type expect you to prove your commitment.
