Hand Solo - you need to chill out mate. You, alas, will be the one thought the plonker as people may think you tried to get into the RAF but failed. Scroggs - very good advice. Twieke, don't worry - any ex-fast jet guy knows exactly where you are coming from. The truth is that the airlines are full of people who once flew fast jets but now fly 747s, 777s. The overwhelming majority make the transition very easily and are a delight to be around. There are always one or two who spoil it for the rest - but is that not the case the world over? It is also true that the overwhelming majority of civil guys who never darkened the door of the military are great people too. Sadly, there are a few bitter and twisted ones who have a loathing of all ex-military pilots based on some personal slight from the past.
By the way - if you go long haul you will never again have to endure the humiliation of being number 4 at Wainfleet and getting '500 at 6' in front of your mates! I still miss the trips to Deci - but I daresay LA and Hong Kong will do instead. Very best of luck in the future.