Many years ago . about 1994,a colleague and I passed through security at a major airport. He was wearing 4 bars I just an "aircrew" raincoat without any bars at all.
They called him "sir "and completely ignored me.
We had a discussion about this . Next day I borrowed his 4 bars and added them to mine ..result 8 gold bars per shoulder, he worn the raincoat.
I expected to be greeted with "sir sir" with my colleague being completely ignored.
Result ....total shock and amazement from the security staff as they waved us through with a frown.
Don't think they would see the funny side today.
Good luck !