Sideslip,
Yep you are spot on. I run a flying club at a mil airfield, mil aircraft on UHF and Civy on VHF requires all players (both pilots and ATC) to keep on thier toes! Very robust airmanship and dilligent lookout are essential.
Also, I think galaxy flyer is on the money; the VHF are not a priority for maintenance or funding.
Happy landings
3 Point