US Veterans, militaria, etc...

[JohnMcNab]

I am a military retiree and I wear the US Army Special Forces (SF) tartan. To purchased it, you are required to send proof of qualification. I have only worn it to formal events. At times, I wear 2-3 miniature badges on my lapel. I think less is more and I don't care to explain ribbons or medals to the curious. As someone stated, being in a kilt attracts enough attention. When I do wear the miniature badges, I wear my SF tab, Ranger tab and Master wings. Every time I have worn them it was a formal event or military holiday. I think if we wear what we have earned, display it with good taste and respect and at appropriate times, we meet the intent of the regulations.

[Geoff Withnell]

I am a military retiree and I wear the US Army Special Forces (SF) tartan. To purchased it, you are required to send proof of qualification. I have only worn it to formal events. At times, I wear 2-3 miniature badges on my lapel. I think less is more and I don't care to explain ribbons or medals to the curious. As someone stated, being in a kilt attracts enough attention. When I do wear the miniature badges, I wear my SF tab, Ranger tab and Master wings. Every time I have worn them it was a formal event or military holiday. I think if we wear what we have earned, display it with good taste and respect and at appropriate times, we meet the intent of the regulations.

While I agree with most of your post, I enjoy explaining to the curious what my medals means. Of course, I don't have all that many, and most people here in the States recognize the Vietnam "been there" ribbons.

Since ancient times, the purpose of military decorations has been "to honor those who have performed meritorious deeds and to encourage others to follow their example." The second purpose can only be achieved if those who have been decorated wear those decorations.