Should we make more of these events, or shall British stoicism reign?
Not promotion and not the Royal Air Force, but Whenurhappy's question above reminds of being present when the first submarine badges, or dolphins were being awarded to the crew of an SSBN by the local Flag Officer. As he pinned the badge on the breast of the Chief of the Boat, the latter visibly winced, only to be told sharply by the Admiral, "Keep still man - I'm sure my submariner father didn't wince when he was being awarded the VC by King George V", to which the Chief of the Boat replied, "Well, Sir, I don't suppose the King pinned the VC through your father's left nipple."
Jack