Jimmy,

Believe it or not, I actually agree with you on this one!

I choose not to fly the Lion Rampant because I know its symbolism -- BUT, I do not enforce those beliefs on others -- I have never told anyone flying it that they should take it down -- at least they are displaying Scottish pride. I wish more who fly it at Scottish events, etc. would take the time to learn the history & symbolism of the flag (it dates back to the Scottish King William The Lion), so at least I can attempt to educate without preaching.

The same with the BW tartan -- as long as someone isn't impersonating a Black Watch Jock (save reenactors) and wearing the full "kit", then why not? So much of Scottish "kit" comes from the Scottish Regiments of the British Army anyway, and the Independent Highland Companies in many ways started it all. And, now that the BW is threatened by the politician's pen, we want their legacy and history to survive. Knowing the history behind the tartan will help.

For Americans, the BW tartan should strike a lot of pride -- it was the Black Watch who refused to take Battle Honours on their colours for the American Revolution because it was a war between family. Americans who wear the BW are paying tribute to that gallant spirit, INMHO.

Cheers!

T.