I served for 15 years with the rocks on Rapier and I came to the view that if you can do your job as well and as professionally as they do theirs then you can be justifiably proud of yourself. I made some good mates but you were always a guest, never a member, (a stance that suited both parties I might add). Their esprit de corps sets them apart because whilst the rest of us may banter about which trade/branch is the best they truly believe that they are Gods chosen ones.
Having worked with the RA & REME I think that a serious mistake was made when the SHORAD role was transferred that will only come to light in the heat of combat. Not knocking the Army but there is no history of air awareness and I will always be happier to have an RAF beret (even if styled to absurdity) on the fenceline.
A bunch of knobs at times but top at what they do.