Jay
I don't think anyone is even remotely suggesting the Forces should exist just to be seen - however, even with the latest cuts, the budget is still a big chunk of taxpayers money and I think they need to know what you're bringing to the party. There is precious little positive profile at the moment, much less with the demise of mil SAR. Aside from Afghanistan and the odd bit of MACP eg troops (inc RN and RAF) shovelling snow, some of the few 'good news' stories coming out of MoD are to do with the professionalism and bravery of RAF / RN SAR crews.
The point is, it won't take much for JP to ask, post Afg - what exactly do you do?