I retired 2 years ago as a AM1(AW),,, My rate was originally AMS= Avation Structures Mechanic. There were 2 other AM ratings,, AMH = Hydraulic guys (and still did metal work also) and AME = ejection seats and life support sys. Now its just AM (hyd and metal smith combined,only different by the speciality school you get) and AME are still their own .

We worked very close with the AD rates They are all AD now also. They used to have some seperations for Jet and Prop.

This guy sounds like a tool. Find out what his rank was when He got out. Ill bet you he was a AD3(AW)but in 10 yrs he may have made AD2 or 1, because you only have 5yrs or so to make E5, then you have to be selected to stay in even if you make your next rank. Ill bet he couldnt make E-6 and was put out at 10 cause he didnt pass his AD1 test. HOwever his story doesn't hold much water to me. If there is any truth to the W part he is saying he forgot the A in front of it. The (AW) stands for Air Warfare qualified. It is a set of wings that go above your name and you have a lot of stuff to learn and go b4 a oral test board to pass. Then there is a SW also which is for Surface Warfare. If an Airdale get's that in addition to his AW he has put in A LOT of hard work.

Yep this guy sounds like a Tool alright. I worked too hard for 20 yrs to forget my rate and title. Here are links to pics of the pins.

avation warfare http://www.flyingtigerssurplus.com/product-images/lg/E018_lg.jpg

surface http://www.uniforms-4u.com/Productimages...nsigni-3335.jpg

Your primary pin goes over your left pocket above your name and the secondary below the pocket.