I really don't want to sound stupid here but, why is not a reasonable assumption that he really does fly the Hornet? I know plenty of fighter and heavy lift cargo pilots. Just asking cause i don't know the guy on a personal level. For all you all know i fly C17's for 172AW Mississippi. Of course i don't, but i do work on the simulators for the C17 Globemaster though and that is the truth!
edit: This was not intended to defend or offend anybody!