These videos show the ultimate difference between NavalAviation and any other kind. The links below are two absolutely outstanding videos about F-18 carrier operations
aboard the USS Nimitz during weather that causes a severely pitching deck, which you can see in the videos. It's more dangerous than most combat missions and the tension in the pilots and crew is very apparent.

Watch part 1 first....Great videos


These videos made me nervous just watching them...

Carrier Landing on a pitching deck, Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gGMI8d3vLs


Carrier Landing on a pitching deck, Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...bBzg&feature=related

Well it's what the Navy dose. In order to stay current you need to do this sort of hands on stuff. The Sims are pretty good but its nothing like going out and doing in the aircraft. No matter it be an F-18 off a carrier or Me in a Cessna 208 flying an ILS to min in Blowing Snow. It something pilots has to do. Use it or loose it as the say.

That was as close as it gets without losing someone.

I got to watch this stuff in person for 2 1/2 years while I was stationed on board the USS INDEPENCENCE CV-62 back in the early 70s.

Brave men. Skilled men. It's what our military produces in all branches...