BD,

I see you've done your homework. As you found out, the Leatherneck Tartan is not considered "official" and as far as I know, only the Coast Guard Tartan is at this time. I hoped it would be but it was with the help of other Coast Guard personnel that it became so. To me, it does not lessen the meaning behind the tartan. Trust me, I know when I walk by a Leatherneck Tartan and I usually greet one with "Semper Fi"!!!

An interesting point that came up was the LL Bean shirts (I had nothing to do with that). But really, what it the difference? I know, for me, when I designed it, I was using a "family" (clan) approach. Just as the wearing of traditional tartans indicates a link to a particular clan in some way, it was that mindset I had when creating the Coast Guard tartan. Yes, I wanted it for the obvious - all those who serve or have served in the Coast Guard in some way, but what of those family members who stood fast during deployments and sea time? How many children, spouses, parents, relatives have supported their Coast Guard service member?

To me it was a way to say, "I'm one of the many threads that runs through the kilt". Nobody goes it alone. So when a person wears the Coast Guard tartan, whether an LL Bean shirt, a tie or a kilt, someone may shout, "Semper Paratus!" or query as to how they might be one of the 'threads'. I guess the only thing I would say to someone outside of those mentioned is just be aware, the curious will inquire. It could be because they know it (and the military tartans are becoming well known) or it could be because someone is curious about it. I know when I wear my kilt, I am often questioned.

The CG tartan has a history which is posted on the Coast Guard Pipe Band's website at www.uscgpipeband.org for anyone who is curious.

Many thanks for allowing to throw my two cents into the pot~