Once again, SAM is talking tripe.
Interestingly (I thought), they don't have to have a USAF or FJ background either. When they looked after me (very well! though I would skip trying the toothpaste food next time) for a day there was one ex USN guy, a c130 guy a B52 guy and a couple of others I can't remember. I could be slightly out on the types but I remember thinking that it was a very diverse bunch. The USN guy had to join the USAF once accepted. They were certainly not young. It was an Evo chase car at the time where I got the back seat ride. Amazing how close they get to the exhaust, made the windscreen shake.
They said anyone could apply and then those that pass screening they let try to land it. Supposedly the trick is that you have to stall it on from about a foot and must land back rollerskate wheel first. If you don't it can go horribly wrong.
I strongly believe that what is given to the pilot as he exits the cockpit should be mandatory for all pilots on all flights!