I recently attended ASP and fortunately was recommended for progression for Air Force Pilot and Mission both with a moderate standing (ADFA and DEO for both) as well as Army and Navy pilot both with a strong standing (ADFA for both).

I now need to submit my order of preferences but need some more advice.

One person I spoke to at ACMC suggested to me that Army and Navy view you more favourably if you place their service as first preference whereas Air Force do not really consider that when deciding to give you an offer. Alternatively, the Enlistment Coordinator I spoke to just said that all services consider your preference order.

My real personal preference, like most, would be Air Force Pilot but I certainly wouldn't be disappointed by either Army or Navy.

Given my stronger standing for Army and Navy I wouldn't want to jeopardise my chances there by placing Air Force first but also don't want to lower my chances of Air Force selection. Is it better to place Air Force as first preference and rely on my stronger standing for Army and Navy to keep in consideration or just commit fully to Army or Navy and place one of them as first?

Lastly, the decision between Army and Navy. I do like the idea of the maritime aspect but feel that the Army may have more combat opportunities. Which service provides the most thrilling/rewarding career with the best conditions?