SASLess old chap - you are probably right; there will come a time when someone, be it CrabAir Wokka's or Pongo, will need the cavalry. However, I, and I suspect most infantry troops, would prefer that cavalry to be in the form of a (relatively) fast air asset like Harrier, on scene in 15 minutes pretty much anywhere in the AOR, than the undoubtedly capable Apache an hour or two later.
Nothing (much) against the AH Boys, or the AAC in general - the ones I've met are extremely pleasant and professional. In my opinion, it is all a rather large and unfortunate case of politics (we've bought it, lets use it!) and inter-service (let's justify having an Army Air Force) wrangling than achieving the operational imperative.
Echoing earlier comments, everyone fly safe (including me!)
Oh, by the way JunglyAEO - you rock!