Huggy,
(Let me set the scene first - I'm working at the Pentagon and I'm really busy.)
So I'm goofing off on the internet for a couple hours and I come across a U-2 forum. Honestly - I have no idea how I got here. Anyhow, I noticed my name mentioned and it left me with one question:
Huggy - I've known you for a while...but when have I ever spelled CLARK with an "E"?!?
I'm a little late here, but my 2 centavos can't hurt. The following thoughts will be somewhat random. If you are even vaguely interested in this job, you owe it to yourself to check it out. Seriously, next to meeting my wife and having a kid, going to the U-2 was the best thing I've ever done - period. Don't let anyone fill your head with BS and rumors. Unless you talk to someone who's done it, you don't have the real picture. TDY's are no worse that any other airframe, but more predictable. I wouldn't worry about the medical thing. Huggy just had his old-fart "POOP" hip or knee replaced and he's flying again.
Worried about career? I was in AFSOC for almost seven years, flying U-boat's. I was an evaluator and they wanted to send me to the WIC. Granted, blowing S up was cool, but I wanted to really fly (I know that sounds cheesy). I was just sick of hauling around 13 booth monkeys and gunners while plowing endless circles over Iraq, Afghanistan, and southern Alabama. Seriously, it was rewarding and I highly recommend going to the Gunpig, but it was time to move on. Went to the deuce and never looked back. Got promoted to Major w/ a school slot. Finshed that last year and now I'm working on the Air Staff. Can't wait to get back to Beale. Dead end? Doesn't seem too bad to me.
I could go on and on about how great the community is, the quality flying, northern California, etc, but I think others have hammered that home already. I remember flying a T-38, driving the car, and flying the deuce all in one day. That's sick. Got any questions? Don't be afraid to drop me a line.
HAIL DRAGONS!