Same old, same old. If you ever have to ask other people how important you are, the answer is usually "not very", and if you ever have to use those immortal words "but my rank is equivalent to..." you a clearly sufffering from SPS (small penis syndrome). It's clearly not your fault you are in a state of limbo between the accepted social strata, have you ever thought of applying for a commission old chap?
If you really have a problem with it, the next time some Brits fail to salute you, go over to them, and in an officer like manner take them to task for it. You will get either:
a. A salute (very small chance, and they will only be taking the pi$$)
b. A fat lip (highly probable and warranted - no pun intended)
c. Howls of laughter (somewhat probable)