Just a point of order:-
if someone makes it all the way to become an F/A-18 pilot with documented missions in Iraq, they have proven themselves many times over as an aviator and clearly know how to fly a jet. Certainly more than good enough to "fly rubber dog.... out of Hong Kong"
Don't agree - shows that one certainly has the potential ability do the Airline Job, but doesn't mean you can walk in with Zero effort or prep and pass a course or line check. Ask any Ex-Mil guy who's not a bull****ter and they'll concur.