Birddog,

I'm also a Marine. Playing devil's advocate a bit here- why not wear the Marine Corps emblem on a nice dark khaki balmoral and save the beret and badge as a symbol of your shared time under arms together?

Matt Newsome, among others, has a really sharp military-style dark khaki balmoral that should pair nicely with the EGA insignia. You can even dude it up with a nice scarlet and gold two-color feather hackle.

I can understand about your admiration for the Royal Marines, since I share it. But if I'm going to wear an emblem it will be the one that I have the stongest tie to and the most admiration for: the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.

Additionally, I think that it would get tiring having to explain to folks (who will invariably ask) that you're not a real Royal Marine, but you're wearing the beret and insignia because you're an honorary Royal Marine, served with them, bought them pints, etc.

Cordially,

David