Posted on Mar 6, 2015
Do you often wear things in public to signify your military service/affiliation?
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I often wear shirts, baseball hats, my Marine cover, etc., to let others know of my service. I do this to meet other Marines, more so than being recognized by civilians.
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Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 182
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I spoke with a retired vet recently who spoke about the importance of having something, anything, on our person at all times in public to signify our service. Subtle is fine. He felt it was a way to know, immediately, without a doubt, that if shit went down, if you needed help, a fellow veteran would be a trust-worthy person to make contact with. Not only that, but also someone to buy a beer for, strike up a quick conversation, or simply nod your head in silent appreciation.
It made sense to me.
I know that when I'm out in public, I am very aware of people who look military. I absolutely look for tell-tale signs, including service 'bling'. It is a comfort knowing that I am not alone in this world. My brothers and sisters are out there.
I know it sounds corny at times, but that's ok. I'll put it out "there" anyway.
It made sense to me.
I know that when I'm out in public, I am very aware of people who look military. I absolutely look for tell-tale signs, including service 'bling'. It is a comfort knowing that I am not alone in this world. My brothers and sisters are out there.
I know it sounds corny at times, but that's ok. I'll put it out "there" anyway.
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PV2 Alaina Norman
cpl anthony pearson- that's actually a really good way to look at it and reason for that matter.
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PO3 Michael James
Its an earned privilege .. and, like it or not, I am proud to see others displaying pride in their service to our country..
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PO3 Richard Freitas
As a Vietnam Vet, I'll occasionally now wear a hat or a t-shirt in public. However, in the early 70's I would never wear anything identifying me as prior military. I'll thank other vets that wear military apparel and I don't mind civilians thanking me for my service.
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PO3 Michael James
PO3 Richard Freitas - Thank you, Sir; Became civilian, Jan 72, I can relate to the "early 70's", and the abusive insults and the issues we faced, and Continue to face.. I don't give a DAMN what people think of our Least Respected Vietnam Veterans.. You wear the uniform.. your Life is on the line... AT ALL TIMES.... Yes, even stateside !!! Shall we recall FORT HOOD, 2009 ?? ( you could have been caught in the shower ) Whatever the Branch of service.. YOU ARE IN HARMS WAY !!! At All Times /// Defending the Constitution for everyone to enjoy.. So I will Wear anything RESPECTABLE relating to THE service of OUR country !! They can either like it or leave the country, and CONGRESS needs to recall >>FORT HOOD, and pull its head out of its ASS, FULFILL the Promises it made and Support and Respect those who have Honorably Served this Country !!
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I rarely wear items that identify me as military when I am not on duty. Mainly because I feel uncomfortable with the praise that our non-military population continue to shower upon us. I think it is great that our military members are receiving these thanks, however, I prefer to serve my country without the need for constant accolades. It is for this reason, and not that I am not proud, that I do not wear items that identify me as military.
A lesser reason that I don't wear these items is the growing terrorist threat that is always around us.
A lesser reason that I don't wear these items is the growing terrorist threat that is always around us.
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SCPO George Skinner
I agree for the same reasons. No need for thanks for something that was a job. Our fallen buddies deserve the credit, they gave it all. I did start my military life as a draftee into the Army in '68. I went into the Navy for good in '72. I do however, have a 1st Air Cav patch on my license plate more as a memorial..
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SFC Kevin Childers
I stopped the day I had to put a guy on park for disrespect. It was shortly after I started my break in service following Vietnam. I was a failure to adapt to civilian life.
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CPT (Join to see)
1LT L S Don't worry. I won't tell you about all the other cool things I have from RP. It's not like they gave me an award..... my bad, they did give me an award.
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