SRENNAPPS- You can have my job mate. I joined the RAF in 1988 and have seen good and bad times, but nothing like today.
I agree with your chronilogical history of Air Force morale, but fundamentally disagree with your outcome. I try really bloody hard to contribute, and to leave a place better for my having been there. I strive hard to ensure that I pass on everything of use, and nothing of little use to the Front-line aircrew I train.
I have the greatest of respect for the Engineers I know (very few post-leaning, as they have been culled to dangerous levels and taken off the squadrons).
I lead by example, taking my turn with the crappiest of tasks, and having an early night when I would much rather be getting in as the world rises. I defend my lads, and support my bosses(Flt/Sqn/Stn level).
I have 2 and a half years left, and am sure the RAF would dearly like me to stay to 55, but they have nothing to offer.
Ther is nothing the poster can offer me, but more of the same. As I spend each day trying to achieve success, I am blocked, sandbagged, blindsided and generally dragged down by a plethora of people who either don't understand, don't care, or just can't be bothered.
Everyday brings a new PI, regulation or target. Focus shifts and the trivial surpasses new levels of priority.
It is in short, like swimming the channel blindfolded and with your arms and legs tied, whilst men in boats shout contradictory advice.
Does CAS care? Yes, he probably does, yet it continues day after day. He stated earlier in the year that 'distraction' was an issue that bothered him. He must have been talking about lack of it, as it has sky rocketed this year and seems set to reach stratospheric levels.
I'm in the minority here. I love my job, wouldn't fly any other type (despite the crap lifestyle and danger that goes with it) and will continue to give 500%.
But come late 2010, I'm off and someone else can replace me. On our Flt, 45 % are LCR and 20 % first tourists. Good luck!
WM