Quote Originally Posted by Charlie Mc. View Post
...IMHO wearing the Leatherneck tartan isn't like claiming to be a Marine. Its not like he is sporting an Eagle Globe and Anchor. As long as it is not worn under false pretenses I would say go for it! It is a great looking tartan and if someone wants to honor the Corps by wearing it, then I say more power to them.

Concur. I would object strongly if Colonel MacNeal wanted to wear the Eagle, Globe and Anchor. The Right to wear the EGA must be earned.

Naval personnel assigned to the Marines are authorized to wear Marine uniforms. Someone who served with Marines for an extended period and wants to honor that association by wearing the Leatherneck tartan in an honorable and respectful manner should not be discouraged.

The C&S course is 9 months long, meaning Colonel MacNeal was assigned to a Marine Corps installation and served alongside Marines for an extended period - not just a few days or weeks.

Besides, as pointed out, the Leatherneck tartan is not an officially sanctioned USMC tartan, which means anyone can wear it. However, the fact that Colonel MacNeal sought out the opinions of XMTS Marines speaks highly of his regard for the Corps. Somehow I don't see him as trying to pass himself off as a Marine.

Semper Fi -