Please dont get me wrong here - the ATC NEEDS to be closely associated with the RAF, and yes, part of its structure. But why place so much emphasis on a queens commission? Do ATC SNCOs really have more of a problem interacting with the RAF than VRT bods do? Same uniform, same ranks, but not part of the RAF? What would we lose by being ATC officers rather than VRT ones? Does the uniform make the difference, or is the attitude of the person IN the uniform the key to better support and co-operation?
Where am I coming at this from? I'm a commissioned VRT Officer. I've got no axe to grind here, and I take my rank and position seriously - I am sadly very proud to be an officer in the VRT! I'm not pretending to be anything other than a VRT officer though, and as you've said AP - none of those types appear to be on here!! Shame - they'd probably learn something if they opened their ears.