I feel the same way... to claim that title that was unearned.. is a sin... Those of us who served in the Marines are a special breed... different from any other service. We cherish OUR Marine Corps.. We, on this site, represent different eras..but reguardless when we served.. we are all Brothers and Sisters. We claim the Leatherneck as our tartan, it helps us show our pride in Our Marine Corps, but we understand, we share this tartan with others.. others who share the mutual respect for the Corps.. people who wish to honor the Corps, to honor a Marine, or Marines. They may been brothers, fathers, uncles, close family friends, or best friends.. ( or females as applicable).
I appreciate the fact, someone has enough respect for the Corps, to ask our opinion.. so to often, we hear.. I can do what I want.. wear what I want.. ect. I have no problem sharing a mutual respect..
But, I will not share the title I earned..that we all have earned.. the title of Marine.. we are a unique bunch.. we will always hold that title..for life..