Tiger,
Seems odd that a US Army Chinook crew can fly in the same area using the same aircraft and do the same missions as the British Chinook crews are doing in the same aircraft in the same AO and each seem to accomplish their tasks.
If all of what you say is true....then why would the UK forces allow their people to be transported by any Chinook besides those owned by the RAF? It does seem a bit odd to see the Army without the Chinook as it would appear to be an integral part of Army operations. It is not a C-130 after all.
Now just what is the "difference" between crew duties from your side and mine?
I am having lunch today with three of my guys and I will pass your summary to them and see if they agree.