I should say at the outset that I don't hanker after the past and retirement really is wonderful. I experienced the massive support for veterans in the US during two tours over there. The experience in the UK is poles apart. It really is the case that veterans are actively persuaded to avoid their former "stomping grounds".
I wish it wasn't the case but I still rely on just one aspect of former service life. At every turn, the Service puts obstacles in the way, most of which a F1250 will fix. It's now at the point where I'm looking for a civilian alternative.
Unlike the US where access to the BX and health facilities is valuable, a veterans ID card at least would confer a recognition of service and essential access.