I flew as a sprog short contract F/O with Air Links during 1965. Four Argonauts and the last surviving Hermes. All pilots on individual short contract and three DFC holders that I knew about. Nobody wore ribbons, but there were only about eight captains; ex RAF, RCAF, and RN only, and could be pestered for war time info on their friends and colleagues. Charter pilot buddies of the boss might be on contract to more than one company at the same time. By 1966 I think that the Ministry tightened up a bit on free lanceing. Two mavericks mentioned in the book 'The Flying Tramps'. A couple or three F/Os WW2 CPL only holders as well. As a child passengerI, flew on BEA Vikings out of Northolt to Renfrew, and back. The stewards likely to be wearing medal ribbons in those days- not sure about the stewardesses...