Pylot - I fully share your views, and as for the ground-pounders reminding us of what 'GD' stands for I would suggest they think about the new aircrew structure ie: Flying Branch (GD is for all wg cdrs and above) and Career/Professional Aviators. As I understand it, all designed to keep the majority of aircrew in aircraft - not fire engines! Worth emphasising that I was similarly appalled while passing through South Cerney enroute warmer climes to see Paras on fire duty. Overall, it all comes under the heading of 'Front Line First' - if we're having to use the sharp end for fire duties, then we're definitely in trouble.