Quote Originally Posted by Detroitpete View Post
My 2 cents worth: just my opinion>>>

I wouldn't pay a bit of attention to an invitation that either suggested or authorized me to wear my medals--full, ribbons or minis while in civilian attire. Since I no longer serve in active or reserve status, then there is no reason for me to ever be in uniform again. For me, my medals sit in their cases. The minis I own were worn for designated functions while in uniform.

I do not now, nor will I ever truly understand why anyone would wear any version of military medal post-service and especially on civilian attire.

Sure I'm proud to have served my country. I'm proud of the men I was with when we earned our medals. I'm proud of staying alive. To me--again ONLY one guy's opinion--wearing medals on civilian attire is just not something I feel the need to do.

If it's a matter of having others know you served---well, they can just ask me. Besides, it is usually fairly easy in such company to tell who has served and who hasn't.

Well, the USMC regs say medals "may" be worn with civilian attire, so if you choose not to, I can certainly respect that. And I thank you for your service. I guess it's a matter of attitude. I was active duty from 1968-1972, and have been fairly active in various veteran's organizations ever since. Those who know me know that I almost always have an Eagle, Globe and Anchor somewhere about my clothing. I'm still a Marine. And I would no more go to the Marine Ball, or the Navy Ball, or other military occasion, without my medals, than with my shoes unshined. It just would not seem "right" to me. Of course, I don't wear them at the corporate Christmas party, even though that's formal, and I'll have on the the same jacket. It's not a military or patriotic occasion.

Geoff Withnell