I suppose there are different 'Greatest Pilots', yes those ex-WW2 pilots who survived in one piece and then went onto a long, successful and safe airline career were the epitome of what a consummate professional should be, but the fly by the seat of their pants (with good judgement) pilots that flew fighter aircraft in combat, test pilots, round the world aviators etc will always be seen as different and as more exciting. As pointed out earlier, landing on an Aircraft Carrier in any conditions, let alone in bad weather or night time must leave one at risk of being considered 'great'.
SHJ