Well said, your Lordship! However, who would've thought, 20 years ago that the majority of ground trades in the RAF would now be filled by civillians, albeit, many of them ex RAF. I fear we are on a slippery slope leading towards a lack of experience and common sense in this day of PC, HR and EO. It is up to us, those who have been there, seen it and done it, to pass on our experiences and wisdom to those who wish to fill our shoes.....and they ain't always that big! Maybe there is a place for Community Support Officers, or whatever they are called, but when I wander into town and see them strolling along, hands in pockets, shirts hanging out and generally looking like a sack of sh!t, it seriously annoys me. Like us in the forces, the taxpayer (and that's them and us included), pays the wages. I would expect to see a bit more for my money!