Powerless's statement about public perception is a valid one... and answers from the likes of FG Off Max Stout are not exactly helpful.
There have been numerous threads here and on other forums bemoaning the lack of public appreciation and the shoddy treatment our servicemen and women receive compared to days of old.
Whilst probably totally correct regarding the actual safety of the fly past, throw away comments like Max Stouts which belittle members of the public are not the sort of thing that will enhance the perception of the forces.
Silverstone is obviously a high profile place this week - what sort of reaction do you expect to get from ill informed members of the public who are not lucky enough to have flown for the military or even served alongside those who have?
Attitudes like those shown by the minority are one of the reasons why Joe Public does not connect with the Armed Forces today