Wear of Clan Tartan by non-Clan Members

[creagdhubh]

I was a Fleet Marine Force Navy Corpsman. I wore the Marine fatigue uniform (albeit with my Navy insignia), ate their chow, slept in their barracks, went through some of their training, complied with their regulations and went through some of their experiences. That does not make me a Marine. For that reason, I would not wear the Leatherneck tartan, although I admire it a great deal, not only because I think it is beautiful, but because I respect what it means. Some Marines would not object to me wearing it. Others might. My wearing it would belie my respect for it and for them. Maybe I'll design a FMF Medical Corps tartan at some future time. If so, I will wear it with pride, not the least bit concerned with dishonoring any Marines or the Corps.

***

Thank you again for your service, David. FMF Navy Corpsman are ferociously 'protected' by all Marine Corps Infantrymen, if not by all who wear the U.S. Marine Corps uniform, regardless of their MOS. We have always held our Naval brethren in the highest regard, for it is them we completely depend upon when things get a bit rough whilst in combat. Some of my best mates whilst serving on active-duty were FMF Navy Corpsman.

Semper Fidelis brother...