2008 Army Signal Ball Manhattan Kansas

[Sir Robert]

Hey, wear the full sized medals, you will never get another chance. Think about it, where have you worn them in the past and when will you wear them in the future?

I have enough ribbions to match or exceed a Hero of the Soviet Union, but the hanging medals look better still. If you don't beleive me put them in order 3 to a row, go down and to the left 1/2 ribbon length so there is an overlap. Depending on the size of the jacket wear 9 or 12, and crome do-dads like CIB and marksmanship badges top and bottom respectively when you get the look you want, stop, don't over do it.

[macwilkin]

When wearing a Prince Charlie jacket, mini-medals are the only way to go. Full-size gongs are best left for uniforms and daywear.

But, only wear your medals if the invitation says that medals and decorations are appropriate.

T.

[davedove]

But, only wear your medals if the invitation says that medals and decorations are appropriate.

That is the rule. However, since this is an Army Ball, I would say that they would be appropriate.

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

Hey, wear the full sized medals

Full size medals are never worn on mess dress. Military regulations are pretty clear about what and when medals are to be worn, and by extension this applies to the wearing of medals issued by the Federal Government when worn on civilian attire.

And as a general observation:

The Congress of the United States has recently enacted a new law concerning the wearing of medals and decorations by individuals not entitled to same. See STOLEN VALOR ACT on any search engine.

I personally find it distastful in the extreme when I attend a Scottish function and see men wearing medals and/or service ribbons to which they are not entitled, especially when they try to explain away their phony status as a memorial, or tribute, to their father, etc. These people are beneath contempt.

My father's medals live in a frame on the wall of my library. When I die, mine will go in a frame next to his. That's how you honour or revere the memory of someone who served in the military.

As far as wearing a military mess jacket (Canadian, US, British or commonwealth forces) with a kilt is concerned-- the less said, the better.

I have nothing against converting a mess jacket into something else, but just wearing a miliarty mess jacket with your kilt in the hopes it will make you somehow look, what? Impressive? Manly? Butch? Only makes you look laughable, and the object of silent derision by the real soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines in the room.

If I have offended any wannabe warriors, I can assure you that I have not offended you nearly as much as the false wearing of medals offends most servicemen.

[macwilkin]

I personally find it distastful in the extreme when I attend a Scottish function and see men wearing medals and/or service ribbons to which they are not entitled, especially when they try to explain away their phony status as a memorial, or tribute, to their father, etc. These people are beneath contempt.

My father's medals live in a frame on the wall of my library. When I die, mine will go in a frame next to his. That's how you honour or revere the memory of someone who served in the military.

Scott -- I hope you do not think ill of this young man then:



It's a long-standing tradition for the children & grandchildren in Australia to wear their dad's/grandad's medals and march with their old mates in ANZAC Day parades. Notice that the gongs are worn on the right lapel.

These young people are not being phony in their tribute.

Regards,

Todd

[Highland Logan]

Hey, wear the full sized medals, you will never get another chance. Think about it, where have you worn them in the past and when will you wear them in the future?

According to the Canadian Honor System, "The miniature badges of orders, decorations and medals should be worn suspended from a medal bar attached to the left lapel of the coat. Only one full-size neck badge should be worn, suspended from a miniature-widthribbon. The ribbon is worn under the band of the tie so that the badge hangs 2.5 cm below the tie. A miniature of this badge should be included in those worn from the medal bar. Only one star of order may be worn on the left side of the coat."

Note - Unless a military function, if decorations are to be worn, invitations should read: "Black tie - Decorations".

[ShaneRollins]

I'm trying to remember when the Army SB was in my area what the invitation said and I do believe it did mention that they were appropriate but that was a fear years ago.

I do enjoy my SportKilt for what I use it for, Sports. Judging by how much good press USA Kilts get, you made the right choice.

[Rampant Lion]

Well, I think the outfit that Rogerson785 has decided to wear will look great!

[mbhandy]

Well, I think the outfit that Rogerson785 has decided to wear will look great!

Hear hear!

Back on board.

MrBill

[rdjmchris]

I am waiting for the pics of the outfit worn to the Signal Ball. Enough grandstanding on the right or wrong of wearing daddy's medals and what not. Let's get back on topic.