Originally Posted by
kaitakbowler
Down south in '90, the RAOC (as it was then) guys got all excited as THE Conductor was arriving. When we got finished asking which band was coming down they explained about his appointment, and started to brag that he "would sort out this crab Mess" OWTTE. On arrival he made his number with the CMC and the SWO, reminded his guys that they were in an RAF WO's and SGTs mess and our rules and customs applied, he was a top bloke.
I agree entirely that the man not the badge earned the respect. I've only known a small number of Master Aircrew but 3 stick in the mind as top guys.
Gerry Smith, Master Pilot on 1574Flt Changi, the late Peter Barwell AFC and Barry "Smokey" Furness, both Master Air Loadmasters of 84 Sqn, Akrotiri.
Conductors very rarely take over the Mess; what you've described was pretty much my experience.