Cg: I think your problem (if there is one) is in your description of what you're trying to do:
Teach what happened in the 80's. Who TF cares? They must be bored out of their tiny minds.
The mil is a bit like the church - playing catch up with the youth of today who are wiser, smarter, sharper than anyone from the 80's, I would suggest. The only negaitve I have with the youth of today is their boredom threshold is way way too low.
Perhaps its time to think about your sell by date? No?
Several thoughts here TC- sell by date? F**k off mate! I'm getting paid to teach a class, it might be nice to teach up to date gen- who said 80s? These boys HAVE to know the rank structure and who (broadly) does what at each rank. I intend, iaw my contract, to teach them it. Who mentioned teaching what went on in the 80s? What is your alternative- give up on them?
Blimey!
CG