Tartan Day 2010 Photos: Depicting Highland Dress

[creagdhubh]

Quite right chaps,

I completely agree with all of you in regards to the wearing of military uniforms, it just shouldn't be done. As a former Marine NCO, I would not be too keen on seeing a non-Marine, or non-Marine veteran, wearing any type of Marine Corps uniform-that would most certainly ruffle my feathers, is highly disrespectful to real Marines, and is simply not good taste! I think it is okay for one to wear correct historical Highland dress, but not a modern Scottish Regimental uniform of any sort (an 18th-century uniform or whatever, I think would be okay, as it is educational and serves a purpose for reenactors). As far as my wearing of Highland Regimental neckties, I have decided to cease to do so out of respect to the traditional British mindset and culture, but ultimately to those particular regiments I had the privilege of serving with.

Despite the fact that I had served alongside the previosuly mentioned Scottish units (detailed background discussed in another XMTS thread), and are still good mates with many of the Scottish combat veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan, and having their personal blessing to wear their colours in the form of a Regimental necktie, I have decided to do the right thing, and honour the great lads that I had the immense pleasure of knowing and serving with-through the countless photographs and memories that I have-not by wearing their Regiment's necktie. No longer will I wear their Regimental necktie with my Highland attire, or any other type of gentleman's attire for that matter.

I have sent the aforementioned neckties (along with a handwritten letter, explaining the purpose of why I have sent the necktie) to a single veteran, per regiment (obviously before the amalgamation) in the post to various addresses throughout Scotland (and to one whom resides in Yorkshire) that I know very well, and have been in constant contact with since we all were deployed together during the early operations of the war. I am sure they will appreciate the gesture of good will and a hearty thank you of their service and sacrifice from a displaced Highland Scot, a patriotic American, and a highly motivated Marine!

Thank you all (especially you Jock) for addressing the important issues and aspects of adhereing to one's own cultural identity, as well as traditions. Both of which are time honoured and invaluable. Though they may have never been written down, cultural traditions such as the wearing of a Regimental necktie for example, should always be rightfully demonstrated, instructed, and passed down by those who uphold the tradition. And in turn, should be strictly followed-correctly-to all those interested in the tradition, just as it is done in Britain. I understand this much better now and am grateful to those who have educated me.

Kind regards,