Having been out of the military for 10 years and having served in all 14 years I think we are all missing the point. Who cares which tradesman is more competant.
Who would want to be reemployed by the state. Not I , not with medium payscales. Low morale as a result of being overworked and away from family for extended periods of time. Government leaning on the one manager who tells the truth about 2 wars sapping morale.
Me now, Private employer , good pay, home all year and 170 days off.
A fair employer with good pilots council. The only bummer is the economy and oil prices
Happy with my choice.