Greetings,

I am an honorably discharged veteran of the recent actions in the Middle East...I'm also a proud wearer of the kilt. As there are no "official" regulations for any US branch of service regarding the wear of kilts, I was hoping to get the collective opinion of the community in regard to the following scenarios, and which...if any...are more or less "accepted" and would do no disservice to the honor of either the US awards or Highland tradition/customs.

1. Daywear-It is typically considered appropriate to wear "lapel pins" of awards (one at a time) with civil daywear (i.e. the Argyle), but I've heard that recent changes would permit, in limited venues (such as a veterans event/day of recognition), the wear of full sized, personal (not unit) awards such as the MSM, COMM, etc. Has anyone experienced this, or have an opinion?

2. Miniature medals-I've always understood miniatures to be an "evening attire" item...is this correct for the Prince Charlie only (again, for an inactive veteran), or does size/pocket layout etc result in miniatures being worn with semi-formal as well?

3. Diced hose-My understanding is that the diced hose are worn with uniform only, and I've heard in the UK, it used to be commissioned officers only. Is there ever an appropriate time for a retired/honorably discharged commissioned officer to wear the diced hose, not in uniform?

4. Glengarry-Here in the States, this seems to be the most common headgear in Highland attire. What, if any rules dictate the wear of "diced" or black headgear. I assume other shades, such as the "green" Balmoral have roots to Scots regiments.

5. Finally, have any US veterans here in the forum seen/used/would be willing to hazard opinion on variations of the UK issued short, belted tunic sans military rank/insignia/awards. The green wool "ike jacket" style jackets are certainly "smart" looking, but I wouldn't wear the tunic of another sister service...so I am hesitant with that of an allied military, though they do work so well with the kilt.

Thanks for your time and help.