US Veterans, militaria, etc...

[Geoff Withnell]

For the SAMS guys, as I am interested.
Is the organization recognized nationally as a Veterans org. by a Governmental element (Congress, DoD, SecDef etc.) or is the NC Govs. proclamation it? The IRS is not the answer, by the way, as that is a non profit category decision.
This would clear things up a tad.

I am told by the local Post Commander that we are recognized by the VA. Also, the posts in the greater Washington DC area have been official parts of numerous memorial events at the various war memorials on the National Mall, and wreath layings at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington. All these events have been in SAMS uniform, with kilts and whatever decorations the individual member holds. One of our members who is a piper is an active duty member of the Coast Guard Pipe Band, and has been given permission to perform with us in his official CG band uniform.

[Reiver]

I am told by the local Post Commander that we are recognized by the VA. Also, the posts in the greater Washington DC area have been official parts of numerous memorial events at the various war memorials on the National Mall, and wreath layings at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington. All these events have been in SAMS uniform, with kilts and whatever decorations the individual member holds. One of our members who is a piper is an active duty member of the Coast Guard Pipe Band, and has been given permission to perform with us in his official CG band uniform.

Geoff,
Thanks for the reply. That appears basically de facto.

[JohnMcNab]

I am a military retiree and I wear the US Army Special Forces (SF) tartan. To purchased it, you are required to send proof of qualification. I have only worn it to formal events. At times, I wear 2-3 miniature badges on my lapel. I think less is more and I don't care to explain ribbons or medals to the curious. As someone stated, being in a kilt attracts enough attention. When I do wear the miniature badges, I wear my SF tab, Ranger tab and Master wings. Every time I have worn them it was a formal event or military holiday. I think if we wear what we have earned, display it with good taste and respect and at appropriate times, we meet the intent of the regulations.

[Geoff Withnell]

I am a military retiree and I wear the US Army Special Forces (SF) tartan. To purchased it, you are required to send proof of qualification. I have only worn it to formal events. At times, I wear 2-3 miniature badges on my lapel. I think less is more and I don't care to explain ribbons or medals to the curious. As someone stated, being in a kilt attracts enough attention. When I do wear the miniature badges, I wear my SF tab, Ranger tab and Master wings. Every time I have worn them it was a formal event or military holiday. I think if we wear what we have earned, display it with good taste and respect and at appropriate times, we meet the intent of the regulations.

While I agree with most of your post, I enjoy explaining to the curious what my medals means. Of course, I don't have all that many, and most people here in the States recognize the Vietnam "been there" ribbons.

Since ancient times, the purpose of military decorations has been "to honor those who have performed meritorious deeds and to encourage others to follow their example." The second purpose can only be achieved if those who have been decorated wear those decorations.