Quote Originally Posted by Mike_Oettle View Post
After unpacking our kit we strolled into the bar, wondering what sort of reception we should get from the American officers. We were wearing the kilt and this cause a great sensation. We were immediately invited into the group round the bar and were stood drinks without limit. Many of those present had never seen a kilt before except in pictures or on the stage, and the couldn’t get over it. More than half of them claimed Scottish ancestors. There was one captain, a real Southerner with a drawl that was almost incomprehensible, who appointed himself our special guardian and host. He arranged for a late drinking pass for us and advised us how to spend our time. He had an appointment twenty miles away at 2pm, but at 3pm he was still with us I hope would not get into trouble.[/FONT]
[Snip]
We met them again the next day, and for sheer hospitality and good-fellowship one could not have found a better crowd anywhere. This time we were initiated into the mysteries of the Confederate versus Yankees, and all except the “Regular” promptly voted for the South.[/FONT]
[This reference is to one of the officers in the Scottish regiment who was Regular Army, and part English.]
I found these portions particularly interesting, in light of current discussions re: Americans' interest in Scottish culture. I guess the same tendency was there at least as far back as WWII.

Cordially,

David