It's fascinating to see just how much my generation of operators (late 1980s onwards) missed out on in the formative days of Albert's big RAF adventure, especially east of Aden. But I suppose that is part of an enduring cycle; in the early 2000s the younger folks just didn't believe the tales of Caribbean trainers, frequent Berlin night-stops (before the Wall came down), massive buffets laid-out on the Ranger Packs and 'Crazy Janes' being handed out as we taxyed-in to parking on the last leg of a Euro trainer.
Two thing are for certain: firstly, if I had my time over again and was offered any type out of training, it would still be the four-engined fun-bus of Her Majesties Heavier-than-Air Flying Machine and Glee Club; secondly, this thread is a wonderful way to recall 'Herc Life'.