Blogger - having recently returned from four months away on Ops, I have to say that I find your attitude very sad.
Myself and my colleagues came under contact on most flying days and I for one can say that I most certainly earned my flying pay tens times over (as did your RAF brethren (front and rear) flying Chinooks into some very dangerous locations).
You do yourself and them a complete dis-service. It isn't all about retention. I also acknowledge with the greatest respect the contribution made by those that enable us to earn our flying pay - I very much doubt that you represent them.
What will you say when your children ask what you did in the 'war'..? You certainly won't be able to say that you were a 'team player'