To those whom believe pilots haven't earnt their wings because they "paid" for it, that is a disgraceful view. We're all in it for the same reason, hard work is required on both sides of the fence.
Jeffory - you are quite correct and the last thing we need is another civ vs mil willy-waving thread - I just responded to malabo's rather unnecessary jibe.
I quite agree that whichever route you take involves hard work - the insinuation that mil training is somehow a gift is an insult to all those who serve their country rather than just themselves.
PS - the support is gratefully accepted on behalf of all mil aviators.