Its not just the Armed Forces that treat people with such casual disrespect. After 32 years of Government Service, having worked 13 weeks notice and having lost only 2 days to sickness in all those years I left without a handshake, a goodbye or a hastily bought retirement card from the local B.P. garage. I had a mind to return and kick all the proudly displayed "Investors in People" plaques off the walls.
A friend of mine who works as a Governor grade in the Prison Service tells me he encourages his staff to bid a fond farewell to long term prisoners on their release as a mark of respect for completing their sentences.