Mr Crab-in-Cab (C-in-C, now ain't that appropriate?)
I had the privilege - and it was a privilege - of dropping Paras onto the Ginkelsche Heide near Arnhem, the main drop zone for Operation Market-Garden, for the annual commemoration three years on the trot.
I have walked through Arnhem's streets, where the shops had their windows hung with red, white and blue ribbons and banners shouting 'Welcome back, Tommy!'. I went to the John Frost Brug and marvelled at how much it was like the film. The townspeople were - and are - passionate about the Ten Thousand.
It brought tears to my eyes.
The strategy that led to the Arnhem drop was questionable, to say the least. Nonetheless, the heroism of those who took part in it is not in doubt. The Glider Pilot Regiment, along with the RAF crews that towed them into battle, flew and fought with absolute distinction.
Inter-Service banter is fine - in fact, it's compulsory.
The only rule is that you don't - EVER - mean it.
Gadget 