Originally Posted by
Finningley Boy
There is in fact no reason at all to dismantle service traditions and customs, such as many on here have grown up with and recognise. The only argument for the radical changes being authorised at the top of the chain and being defended by some posters is change sake itself, nothing otherwise. Its an attempt to be down with the latest trends, of course the dividend is expected to be an easing of the recruitment crisis which seems to be present. But none of the Armed Forces exist to mimic or struggle to keep up with the latest styles, many of which represent a disagreement with any kind of established authority. But I will point out again, what will be, will be.
FB
FB
Equally there is no case to RETAIN service traditions and customs. They have been changing and adapting in the RAF since 1918, and they will continue to do so.
Or, Finningley Boy, would you prefer that the RAF still wore puttees, boots, collarless shirts and a uniform seemingly made out of cardboard? Would you prefer it if you could not get married until 25 and then only with your commanding officers permission? Would you prefer it if you still lived in a lino floored wooden hut with a stove and beds all lined up against the wall and bed packs made up every morning with inspections twice a week? Would you rather still work a five and a half day week with compulsory Church parade on Sunday mornings? I think you'll find that not everything in the past was as hunky dory as some may make out.