Brilliant system, does exactly what it says on tin and should IMHO never, ever be changed.....
Deepest Bosnia, 1994 when given the news (mother, hours to go, 2 days at the most) just before OC's evening prayers... pushed straight into the back of a landy and off to the nearest airport at Sarajevo to find a french Herc waiting, next stop Split. Met by the QM and 'De-bombed' on the pan, then straight onto the waiting R&R flight (thanks to the 'volunteer' who gave up the seat
hope you made the next flight and passed the course) next stop BZN to be met by the CO's driver with the words I'm your driver, where to... collected wife and rug-rat on way past tidders, made it to the Hospital in Devon in time for tea.
Mother, bless, hung on for another week and I will be forever gratefull for all who made that extra effort. Thanks.