Smuj,
If my memory serves me, was it not "policy" as taught at OCTU many years ago that officers may put in a brief appearance at all ranks parties away from base but care should be taken to leave before the drinking really started? This was not to protect the officer should any fists start flying, but to protect the juniors from an end of career should they connect with the wrong chin. Not that I am saying that your top table would end up that way, but .....