"In Finnish Air Force mechanics need a long and throught training, but in
USA much of the technical work is done by recruit with a couple of weeks
theoretic training. -

I think the Finnish mechanic was confusing plane captains with jet mechanics -
PCs did tend to fall into the category of "welcome to the Navy, now get to
work", but actual jet engine mechanics became so after comprehensive training
on the particular aircraft propulsion system their intended squadron and
aircraft type used. The various schools that taught jet engine mechanics, such
as at NATC Memphis, had an entire field of hack aircraft to draw from, for
classroom studies. We tore down and rebuilt APUs, disassembled TF-34s and
T-58s and it wasn't theoretical studies, we were in there busting knuckles.
The author of the article was a Lt, so I believe my contention that he wouldn't
be spending much time hanging out among the junior enlisted 'mechs' remains a
valid comment - mechs in squadrons I flew in had experience levels from 2
months to 33 years and the median level of experience was probably about 3-4
years and at about the E-4 or E-5 level. Plane Captains did match the profile
he stated in his article - most are under 20, have less than 6 months of
aviation-oriented schooling, but they are not expected to complete their tasks
in a vaccuum; there was always an old hand available to assist, and a big set
of boots around to kick your butt for getting caught being stupid.

v/r
Gordon
====(A+C====
USN SAR

Donate your memories - write a note on the back and send your old photos to a
reputable museum, don't take them with you when you're gone.