When I left the RAF at the end of 1985 after 19.25 years' service I was being paid (inc flying pay) about £440 less than a Level 5 (Plt Off). Blimey!
But it's sadder than that - I still have my very first payslip somewhere, for £21 gross, £18.10.0 nett for the month. The youngsters of today ...... etc, etc.