Actually I think it was because years ago vacancies on AEF's came about because there was a lack of service QFI's who wanted the job when they retired
The gap was plugged by keen civilian AFI's who were more than qualified, but some form of brevet was required for the job and Innsworth created the VR badge.
The staff were actually commissioned as RAF VR(T) J Class officers (civil servants in uniform). There were 3 at that time as I recall.....
How the tables are turned and now we have shedloads of ex-RAF officers queueing up for the jobs on AEF's ! since their real jobs don't exist.
Oh - and the Wings at Syerston are gliding wings on the VGS (which operates Grob vigilant Motor Gliders) which anyone in the service can earn if they are medically fit, and want to spend their time helping air minded youth. Thay also have a crown when you reach B Category instructor and above. On my VGS we had many regular other ranks who freely gave up their time to help - and very welcome they were too !
I don't think there has ever been an AEF at Syerston.
Arc