About this episode
Rob Roy’s path to becoming a Navy pilot started with inspiration from watching Top Gun as a child. Coming from a non-military background, he navigated the path to military aviation on his own, attending the U.S. Naval Academy and graduating in 2011. After completing Aviation Pre-flight Indoctrination in Pensacola, he trained in the T-34 and T-45, before Selecting C-2 Greyhounds, used for carrier onboard delivery. Rob’s journey included deployments, experiences in Corpus Christi, Texas, and roles that spanned from flying in high-stakes environments to assisting with logistics aboard carriers. One highlight of Rob’s career was flying missions to carriers and ensuring delivery of personnel and supplies, showcasing the essential and often overlooked logistical backbone of naval aviation. He tells the story of getting his parents onto a carrier in the Mediterranean, and going around his Squadron CO (Skipper) to do so; a rare and meaningful gesture that illustrated his resourcefulness and deep connection to his family’s contributions. His tenure also involved unique assignments, transitioning aspirations, and navigating challenges with commanding officers, illustrating both the rigor and fulfillment of a naval aviator’s career.