Manchester - your lack of understanding of the role of the winchman is stunning, and also very worrying. The are an integral part of the crew, aid in navigation, clearances (he is the PRIMARY safety guy going into CA's), as well as his primary role. That you display such a blinkered and naiive view is frightening, and another reason why those in the military who do this most demanding job day in and day out need to be worried. If people with your uninformed and incorrect view are in a position to dictate policy or recruitment requirements, then lives will be lost.
I do not expect a reasoned reply, but would be absolutely delighted if you could prove me wrong. By the way, I am not a winchman, but have had my life and my aircraft saved by them on many occasions. I am so glad I don't live in your world.
baldeep (7000+ hrs, 1000+ rescues)