I reckon Hangar has got it completely wrong. I know for certain that if the CO Culdrose was invited he would have gone along. I suspect other seniors would too. Same is true for Yeovilton, whatever the unit.
In my humble view we have some of the best FAA seniors the RN has ever had. The skill and mental dexterity witnessed over the past few years in fighting off the attempt by the RAF to dismantle the FAA speaks volumes of ability and morale. And why should morale be low? The FAA is being re-capitalised across every fleet, the future is very bright and the conditions of service are probably better than ever.
Both Culdrose and Yeovilton are having millions of £ in infrastructure funding such that they will be among the best founded establishments in Defence.
Rant over!