I'm not sure if this future is "on" but doesn't perk points reset after tour is over. If so HTC need to disable perks...or carry them over to next tour.
Or

create different maps from 1940-45. After you win/loss in that map you move on into new time/map with your new rank. With that rank people can see your skill and you have better access to plane set. So your name tag would read, 2nd LT, 1st LT, Cap, Maj., Lt. Col, Col, Bri. Gen, Lt. Gen, Gen <*your name*>
Higher rank more planes you can drive. If some one shoots that person down they get higher rank and that person, lets say for game purpose person would loose rank.
My idea need little reworking thou