Tartan day in iraq

**KiltedCoastie** · 24th July 09, 02:05 PM

Not to violate the rules that Panache just posted, but I saw this on a military site for Scottish descendants and thought you may find it entertaining.

By 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) Public Affairs, Capt. George Hurd

AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq Lone Star State Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 142nd Infantry Regiment (Task Force Avalanche), caused vehicle and pedestrian traffic jams here during their much anticipated Tartan Day festival, April 6.

Onlookers converged from all directions in response to post-wide rumors of men wearing dresses—Soldiers of Scottish descent wearing kilts and conducting the Highland Games.

The games were a celebration of Scottish and Celtic heritage held throughout the year in Scotland and descendent enclaves around the world. Tartan Day marks the anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath establishing Scotland’s Independence.

Maj. Mike Wallace, master of ceremonies and 2nd Bn., 142nd Inf. Regt. battalion executive officer, ignited the Tartan Day idea and inspired Soldiers of Scottish descent to requisition their respective kilts. Tartan patterned kilts are distinct and correspond to a specific Clan (extended family) or military organization.

After a long day participating in heavy sports, flying objects, and surprisingly—no injuries, all gathered for a sunset sampling of Haggis with lamb hearts and onions, Iron Brew (a carbonated water drink tasting like bubble gum), butter shortbread, followed by a showing of Braveheart starring Mel Gibson as Sir William Wallace.

During weeks of preparation, Wallace and Staff Sgt. Jeff Hardin built the 80 pound, 16 foot long caber—it became 15 feet long after a practice flip broke its snout. On the morning of the event, Scotland’s Lion Rampant replaced the Texas flag—an occasion seldom seen.

Texas Governor Rick Perry dispatched a proclamation to Task Force Avalanche. His message reads in part, “Texas has been deeply influenced by settlers of Scottish descent. Scottish surnames, such as Houston, Austin, Dallas, Crockett and Bowie - are literally all over the Texas map” Lt. Col. Mark L. Burkett, 2nd Bn., 142nd Inf. Regt., battalion commander and career “roughneck” infantryman, had an indescribable look when his chain of command, Col. Samuel Bethel and Col. Lee Henry, showed up at the games and saw his staff warriors dressed in kilts.

Alba Gu Brath! (Scotland Forever).

[Source: www.army.mil]

**macwilkin** · 24th July 09, 02:18 PM

Matt,

Would you mind posting and/or PM'ing the full URL for this article? I would like to share it with the members of our local Scottish society.

T.

**Stratherrick** · 24th July 09, 02:22 PM

Matt

Sounds like a good time was had by all!

Thanks for posting that.

Cheers

Bruce (Fraser)

**BEEDEE** · 24th July 09, 02:31 PM

Originally Posted by cajunscot

Matt,

Would you mind posting and/or PM'ing the full URL for this article? I would like to share it with the members of our local Scottish society.

T.

And I'd like to share it as well since we are so close to Camp Lejeune and MCAS Cherry Point.

Brian

**Phogfan86** · 24th July 09, 03:23 PM

"Maj. Mike Wallace, master of ceremonies and 2nd Bn., 142nd Inf. Regt. battalion executive officer, ignited the Tartan Day idea and inspired Soldiers of Scottish descent to requisition their respective kilts."

Lemme get this straight: I can join the Army and someone can order me to order and wear a kilt? Where do I sign up???

I'd like the URL, too, if you can post it. This is a great story. Thanks for posting it!

**dfmacliam** · 24th July 09, 03:42 PM

It's a good thing to see these men and women of our armed force, proudly displaying their pride in the country they have descended from. Few countries have that esteemed honor, and it's good to see Scotland held in such high esteem.
In a country, rocked with violence, and our good brothers and sister give their lives in the name of Freedom, it's good they can take the time to let go and have fun. I hope there were poctures taken and we could share in the good feeling, had by all.
It makes me feel proud that I am a resident of Texas, and Texas is proud of our Scottish forefathers who helped create the country, which led to the Great State of Texas.