OK, so I feel that maybe I need to explain why I sound like the jacka** protector of protocol that no one else gives a damn about. It likely stems from at least two areas. First, I am a Stewart and can trace my ancestory several hundred years. On my wall hangs the Coat of Arms of my great-great-great grandfather. Growing up I proudly wore red Stewart tartan kilts. However now I wouldn't be caught dead in one and neither would most of my family. Why, well so many of Stewart kilts I see today are worn people who just like the tartan and have no connection. Also seeing red Stewart everywhere from now till Christmas just makes me sick. I have not worn a red Stewart kilt in over 15 years. Now like most modern Scots I trace my ancestory through more than one family and so I proudly wear my Stewart of Appin kilts. I do own a black Stewart kilt that I am very fond of for formal wear.

Second I was in the Army, and as most know in the service your resume is worn on your uniform. It is immoral, not to mention illegal to wear anything you are not entitled to. Also I earned the right to wear a black beret during my service. Don't get me wrong I hold every man or woman who serves with the highest regard, but no matter how many Ranger brass the Army shuffles out say how much they support the the issue of the black beret to all we know it was a PR move to help recruiting.

So yes I am a stickler, but I hope you will understand why.