Bob, while Crab and I enjoy a healthy debate, I think as a long term SAR pilot, having risked his and his crews necks for more than a few Darwinian candidates in his time you could hardly accuse him of not flying for a living.
For the poor guy in this accident it's a brutal way to learn a lesson. Terrible way to go and sorry for him and his family.
Bob I just love they way you yanks have it so tough and wear that like a badge of honour. In dear old Blighty we call that Inverted Snobbery! Enjoy your gutter!
DB