R57
That's one of those things that if you have to explain, he wouldn't understand.
For generations (which he may not even remember) the fourth stripe (at all major airlines) was more than just sitting in the seat, it was EARNED by not just waiting for seniority but by PROVING ones self capable of command.
Yea it sounds a bit dramatic but part of the reason our profession has been dumped on so badly is our own disrespect for what we do.
I suppose he would be happier if displaced Captains wore black athletic shoes, walked around the terminal with ear buds and a backpack!
How low can we go???
CG