I don't want to be a killjoy, but do you mind starting at the lower rank. I think it models nicely that this is a long war and your pilot is just starting out. One other benefit, is you won't automatically get the nicer planes and that has been fun simulating that as well. In all honesty, we should have started even lower because I can tell you that since I've maxed out the rank with my Warbirds pilot, there isn't anything to look forward to as far as promotions are concerned. Anyway, I hope you don't mind that too much.
Member and provider of banjo music for the Illustrious BOC