Kilt & pith helmet - Royal Military College of Canada

**Bigkahuna** · 22nd July 09, 02:37 AM

Originally Posted by The Beach Celtic Festival

Good day everyone,

My name is OCdt Nick Goulet and I was the parade commander for the Commandant's "Change of Command" in the above photo. For the curious types, here's a breakdown of my dress:

- the kilt: I am a piper with the RMC Pipes and Drums, and as such the highland dress is our uniform for all ceremonial occasions

- the pith helmet: newly added to our Cadet Dress Instructions, parade appointments, including the members of the Pipes and Drums, wear the pith helmet. I've found many historical pictures in books and on the internet which support the wear of this headgear in highland dress.

- the sabre: Each squadron was given a distinctive sword by one of the graduating classes as a gift, to be carried by the Squadron Leader. As I am the Squadron Leader of 8 (Mackenzie) Squadron, I carry the 8 Sqn Sabre.

Thank you for your concern and have a great day!

OCdt Goulet, 24198, CSL 8 Sqn

Dear Sir, Thank you very much for jumping in and answering my question. It is indeed a pleasure to have you join our forum and I hope we will hear more from you. Best of luck and stay safe. John Walker

**Jock Scot** · 22nd July 09, 02:43 AM

Ron I agree with you,to a point. Mr. Goulet and all the other young men and women who don a uniform to keep the Western World "free" have my greatest respect.In passing, I have had my three sons in uniform serving around the world and now they have all, returned home safely and are now recently retired. PHEW! So I do know and understand that "real deal" that you are talking about. Nevertheless when you post a picture, all of us who see that picture will notice this, that, or, the other in the picture and it is not unreasonable that inquiring minds notice things and ask questions.That is not trivializing anything and in this case certainly,trying to understand how others "do" things. There is nothing trivial in observing, asking and noting, in my book. However, I am very sorry that you feel "regret", as you obviously do.

**BEEDEE** · 22nd July 09, 03:55 AM

Ron - my personal view - this was a great post and a wonderful dialog ensued that gave us all a better understanding of the military traditions in another country. CSL Goulet was a bonus IMO, and did a great job of putting the photo in perspective.

Thanks to you both.

Brian