Should I Wear My Kilt?

[ShawnT]

My best friend of 7 years is graduating from Army basic training in a few weeks and I had planned to wear my kilt to the ceremony. After talking with a few family friends I'm starting to second guess my decision. I am not ashamed of my kilt and understand I wear it to express pride in my heritage but I also don't want the soldiers graduating or their families to get the idea that I am mocking them or the military. Any advice?

[Grouse Claw]

I'd be interested in what the folks have been saying, Shawn. I take it you live in a free country. Don't get down about it. I'd wear it, nevertheless.

[The Wizard of BC]

It is highly unlikely that anyone in the US Military would take offense to you wearing a kilt as no US military branch has a kilt in its history. Most do have a kilted pipe band but the kilts worn are not regular issue uniforms. The kilts are only worn while performing in the band.

Most in the US Military will understand the military history of the British kilted units and respect them for that but as you are not representing those units again, no offense could be taken.

Unless of course you are wearing one of the Tartans that are named for the US Military branches such as the Army Tartan. You may be asked about that kilt but most would not recognize the Tartan or care. They are not officially recognized or issued as part of the uniforms. (The only branch to officially recognize a Tartan is the US Coast Guard, still only the pipe band wear them in any official capacity.)

[Spartan Tartan]

no one there will care anymore than anywhere else you might wear your kilt. But if wearing it make YOU uncomfortable, then wear something else. Otherwise wear it a nd enjoy the eceremny.

[Llama]

Don't let the haters get you down. Wear it proudly.

[tulloch]

Ask your friend.

[sailortats]

I do not understand how anyone would think you were mocking them or the military by wearing a kilt. Wear it and be proud doing so. Enjoy the day with your friend and don't forget to thank him for serving.

[Riverkilt]

Hellya! WEAR IT! You are honoring your friend.

And welcome...stick around the forum.

[Angstrom]

I would think possibly not, unless the kilt also has a connection for your friend. Wearing a kilt, not matter how conservatively, will draw some attention to you, and the graduates should be the focus of attention for everyone attending.

If wearing the kilt would mean something to your friend, absolutely wear it.

[opositive]

i was googling military pipe bands and out popped the following xmarks thread:

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f...s-drums-68137/

wear the kilt. it will help make for a memorable occasion.