Civilian Loadies come from a variety of backgrounds, many of them ex-military.
As said earlier, it depends on the Carriers involved. Most scheduled services do not carry flying Loadmasters on board, but will put one on board a charter flight.
They are currently seen on
DC-8s
707s
747s
Hercs
Electras
Antonovs
ad nauseam!
A Loadmaster is not just for Christmas, but is for life!
May the Matatu be with you.
Matatu Man
(ex Loadie, but still one for life!)