The question I have for you Morris, is: Have you seen a civvy doing your job for going on 2 years, covering every single aspect of your job - in anger?
It's true what you said: it "should" be an officer but it isn't technically essential.
[We are seeing the same with SAR - all the military element is being removed in toto. It won't degrade the service one iota.].
Humans adapt - period. It's amazing how the most unusual characters become proficient at alien activities once they have the hang of it and with the correct tuition. I know how you feel.
bw TC