CWD, yes indeed. The RCAF still does such things properly and with dignity, not sycophancy!
I did at least get my blue letter in person from the Stn Cdr, who was genuine with his congratulations.
But that 'letter' one gets on leaving has probably been written by someone joe'd for the purpose.......
As for leaving dos, a colleague and I were sent bills for attending our dining-out night when leaving the service after about 75 years of service between us. Whereas once such things were free, if I recall correctly?