What to do with a Walt?

[An Teallach]

I was at a dinner on 11 Nov and a new member of the particular Society turned up sporting an impressive string of gongs including an MBE, an Iraq Medal and 2 GSMs (no less)!

A bit of digging later and he turns out to have been the only SSgt to have served as a member of a Scottish Infantry Regt and with an officer's Army number to boot.

Black-balling, though inevitable, seems too good for him. Any (legal) suggestions for appropriately disposing of the case?

[QFIhawkman]

Just ask lots of leading questions. People like this always show themselves up without needing any further help from one in the know. Ask him what exactly he did, then do a bit of research, then ask him some more.

The 2 GSM's give the game away straight off the bat. The GSM has clasps awarded for further and / or other tours, it's never awarded twice.

By the way, is this the first time a "Walt" has been mentioned on PPRuNe? It's normally a favourite subject of those wags on "ARRSe"! :ooh:

[GlosMikeP]

Have the local rag's reporter to hand next he's at the bar, and hold a well briefed interview.

[QFIhawkman]

Oh and I have to add that my own dear Father-in-Law is a bit of a waltish character. He did serve in the RAF, but not for an awfully long time, during the Aden conflict.
Now he has the (proper) medal to show for this. However I was visiting the old soak with Mrs QFI the other week, and he was off to a British legion do. Being a true Scot, he had all his highland finery on, but what's this? FOUR medals on his right breast, and his one genuine one on the left. It turned out that he had bought four more (An unofficial QGJ with a YELLOW ribbon, an unofficial "For General Service" one (With a red white and blue ribbon) along with a couple more for reasons undisclosed.

I asked about his QGJ one, (seeing as he retired some 20 odd years back) and he had the gall to tell me that his is a genuine one. He forgets that perhaps I got a genuine one too, and it looks nothing like his!

So your friend may be a genuine ex forces type, and he could be "spicing up" his bland career, like my dear Dad in law. I still think he may be a total Walter Mitty though by the sounds of it.

[heights good]

Have the local rag's reporter to hand next he's at the bar, and hold a well briefed interview.

Easy fix, get him to ring the bell above the bar! Anybody in the know would run a mile :p :ok:

[Mmmmnice]

QFIhawkman - although I've never stumbled across such a case, my understanding of the GSM is that once 7 bars for individual actions have been awarded then a new one is issued. As I said, I've never seen anyone with anything approaching 7 bars but there again this is probably the preserve of the enthusiastic fantacist?

[heights good]

QFIhawkman - although I've never stumbled across such a case, my understanding of the GSM is that once 7 bars for individual actions have been awarded then a new one is issued. As I said, I've never seen anyone with anything approaching 7 bars but there again this is probably the preserve of the enthusiastic fantacist?

Slightly of topic but one of the lads on the sqn was very good friends with a medic who apparently had 13 medals!!! I imagine there is SOMEONE out there with 2 GSMs.

Heights good

[airborne_artist]

How did SSgt Walt get into said society? Did someone sponsor him? If they did, then ask them if they are aware of his double life.

If it was dinner then he'd have been wearing miniatures I imagine. See if you can force a pretext to look at his full-sized medals, as they will be engraved!

[An Teallach]

AA, his alleged Military past was unknown until the fateful dinner. His status as a Walt is indisputable. Tarring and feathering is, I believe, unlawful nowadays. Part of me thinks we should just tell him never to darken our door again. Another part of me craves a public 'outing', prefererrably preceded by seeing him dig deeper and deeper.

The wicked side of me is toying with asking a guest speaker to turn up late, and getting Walter Mitty MBE to fill-in on spec, perhaps to regale us with his sandpit experiences?

[PTC REMF]

There have been several general service medals, one 1918-1962 and one post 1962. Although I believe that they have slightly different ribbon design but both use the same colours. If he had served over this transistion period would he be entitled to wear two?

[An Teallach]

Cheers, PTC Remf, but our hero probably had @ 10 years wait to be born in 1962. The officer's No and SSgt rank are the killers for him.

[Klingon]

Its possible to have two GSM's, I have, you dont need to collect the whole set of bars. Once one ribbon is full of campaign bars another is issued in a slightly different design. :cool:

[GlosMikeP]

They've got the right idea here.

http://www.anzmi.net/report.html

[QFIhawkman]

QFIhawkman - although I've never stumbled across such a case, my understanding of the GSM is that once 7 bars for individual actions have been awarded then a new one is issued. As I said, I've never seen anyone with anything approaching 7 bars but there again this is probably the preserve of the enthusiastic fantacist?

You would be right there. I stand corrected. I've just never seen it done.

Incidentally I was recently at a dinner where a few of the invited guests were EOD chaps, NCOs mainly. (On average about ten years younger than myself).
The medal count per person was astounding. One of the Corporals had no fewer than nine. I did have to ask what a couple of them were, but there's no doubting they were all genuine and well earned.
I guess that what I'm trying to say is that medals tend to come in batches, so for example if a person has the GSM twice, he'd probably have the LS+GC medal at least. They tend to "group" if you know what I mean. If you have a particular one, you're likely to have one more, and unlikely to have certain others. For example, you'll very rarely if ever see a Falklands medal plus the QGJ, but you WOULD be expected to see a QGJ alongside the OSM(A) or the LS+GC, or the Iraq medal.
Two GSM, plus a GW1, plus an MBE (If I remember your post) without a LS+GC plus a NATO (Bosnia or that theatre) would smell fishy for a supposed SSgt.

An Teallach: I suppose that in your original post you were already aware that he was a "Walt" but was in particular looking for a way of getting rid of him from the society. As someone before me said, check his medals for engraved details.
Other than that, as I say, get some research done. Then get him to do a little talk on his time in the forces. You can then all laugh at him as his world crumbles. This may lead to suicide. This is in no way my fault.

These people need a life after all!

[An Teallach]

QFI hawkman, You're right. Of course, this all assumes he remains alive after the Secretary of the Regimental Association, from whom I've asked for written confirmation of his (lack of) service in the Regiment, receives my letter.

Having been trained by a Black Watch RSM Castle as a young Rupert before my RAF days, I think I would have picked a different Regiment if I was to go a-walting!

[WorkingHard]

Is it not a case of feeling very sorry for this fellow. As QFI alluded perhaps a "public" outing may have disastrous effects for which you may not be prepared. Of course he must be stopped from impersonation but please have a care as you know not what started it. We on here do not have the first hand knowledge that you have AT so it is difficult to be specific, but I am sure you get the gist of it.

[The Helpful Stacker]

This chap definitely ticks many of the 'Walt' boxes but are you sure he isn't dangling a GSM and and an ACSM (Accumulated Campaign Service Medal)?

The ACSM ribbon is near identical to the GSM post-'62 one except it has a thin yellow stripe running down the middle.

I was once accused of being incorrectly dressed by some dripping for the ears Cranwell brat because he thought I was wearing two GSM's rather than the GSM and ACSM medals that I've been 'lucky' enough to spend enough time away to gain.

Further more he could serve on an infantry battalion and be a S/Sgt if he were from one of the corps on attachment. If he were REME for instance that could also explain his youth yet relatively high rank (for his age) attained.

Of course if he is pretending to be an MBE for personnel gain then that is a criminal offence and one that is easy enough to discover by searching for his name in the London Gazette.

[Army Mover]

I also met a guy at RAF Gütersloh who earned a GSM for service in Vietnam with the Australian Forces, and a separate GSM for service in Northern Ireland with the British forces.

[ANAPROP]

For example, you'll very rarely if ever see a Falklands medal plus the QGJ...

In fact you would never see a Falklands Medal, as such a thing does not exist. But you might see the South Atlantic Medal, with or without the rosette (rosette awarded if you were in the combat zone).
Yes I have the SAM with rosette AND the the QGJ, as do some of my peers.

[BluntedAtBirth]

I guess that what I'm trying to say is that medals tend to come in batches, so for example if a person has the GSM twice, he'd probably have the LS+GC medal at least. They tend to "group" if you know what I mean. If you have a particular one, you're likely to have one more, and unlikely to have certain others. For example, you'll very rarely if ever see a Falklands medal plus the QGJ, but you WOULD be expected to see a QGJ alongside the OSM(A) or the LS+GC, or the Iraq medal.
Two GSM, plus a GW1, plus an MBE (If I remember your post) without a LS+GC plus a NATO (Bosnia or that theatre) would smell fishy for a supposed SSgt.

It is, of course, possible to have a number of decorations, and even honours, and no LS&GCM - it all depends on the timing of your worthy deeds and indiscretions :O

[Cumbrian Fell]

I spent a diverting hour of company time surfing the ANZMI link (see above). What is interesting is the gall many of these characters have in presenting themselves, bedecked in medals, to veterans. Is there a similar website in the UK?
At a recent ANZAC service at Westminster Abbey, several members of Legion of Frontiersmen pitched up bedecked in Cavalry-style uniforms (and made-up medals) and remonstrated with the Parade Marshalls that they had to line up behind the Women's Auxilliary Balloon Corps (or some such). Whilst waiting to file in to the Abbey after the short parade at the Cenotaph, I engaged in conversation a young-ish chap (perhaps 30) wearing a RTR-style dress uniform. It was clear that he was uncomfortable speaking to a serving officer with a rash of recent campaign medals (Balkans, ME); moreover he was unable to give a convincing explanation why he was at the parade and service at all - as his connections were tenuous to the extreme, as far as I could make out. Oh well, at least he appeared harmless...
CF

[side salad]

What about that Walt at No 10 who has convinced himself that he has run the country well for a few years?:)

[Vortex what...ouch!]

I spent a diverting hour of company time surfing the ANZMI link (see above). What is interesting is the gall many of these characters have in presenting themselves, bedecked in medals, to veterans. Is there a similar website in the UK?
At a recent ANZAC service at Westminster Abbey, several members of Legion of Frontiersmen pitched up bedecked in Cavalry-style uniforms (and made-up medals) and remonstrated with the Parade Marshalls that they had to line up behind the Women's Auxilliary Balloon Corps (or some such). Whilst waiting to file in to the Abbey after the short parade at the Cenotaph, I engaged in conversation a young-ish chap (perhaps 30) wearing a RTR-style dress uniform. It was clear that he was uncomfortable speaking to a serving officer with a rash of recent campaign medals (Balkans, ME); moreover he was unable to give a convincing explanation why he was at the parade and service at all - as his connections were tenuous to the extreme, as far as I could make out. Oh well, at least he appeared harmless...
CF
There's a rather lengthy thread about the Legion of Frontiersmen over on arrse http://www.arrse.co.uk/cpgn2/Forums/viewtopic/t=8811.html. A long read but a few of them come out of the woodwork to get a bit of a drubbing. Some very funny pictures in there too. :\

[GPMG]

A good friend of mine has a cousin who pretended to be a Royal Marine. This chap was about 25 and had lied to his friends and also to his girlfriend etc.

On the walts stag do someone mentioned how it was good that although he had been through a bombing in N Ireland that it hadn’t affected him in any bad way.

My mate asked what the hell he was talking about. As he had me and another friend who were serving in the corps at the time he knew a little bit about what went on etc. To cut a long story short my mate started laughing his head off on the stag do bus and shouted out "You must be joking, xxxxxxx has never been in the army cadets yet alone the Royal Marines". Poor unfortunate walt was ousted and ended up standing up and grovellingly admitting to his friends that he was a liar.

When he admitted it to his Fiancé she dumped him. Oh the justice.

I met the fool last year and he is the typical type of person that you would imagine would try this kind of crap, shifty and very dull when engaged in conversation. Mind you I don't think he was all that interested in conversation, seeing as my friend introduced me as "This is Alex.....he was a real one".

[airborne_artist]

You can always try the reverse line - start spinning him some Walt-like stuff of your own, in the hope that he'll say "yeah, met a few of those guys, great lads", at which point you say "Hah, caught you, no such unit as..."

Try 49Para (http://www.arrse.co.uk/cpgn2/Forums/viewtopic/t=51579/highlight=49para.html) as for starters!

[Mr C Hinecap]

a serving officer with a rash of recent campaign medals (Balkans, ME);
Lordy knows where you got them from CF! Or were you privvy to someone else's conversation? :E
I know the Americans take their 'Walt hunting' very seriously - as they actually value their vets and what they have done as there are some benefits for veterans. If we valued ours, then we might do something more.
ARRSE do have several threads on the subject - some strange people out there.

[Cumbrian Fell]

Mr Chine...

As you well know I attend ANZAC thingies for very good reason (did I see you at the opening of the memorial at Hyde Park Corner? I think not!). As for medals check your PMs!

Bu then we can't all be stackers....

[Twopack]

You've simply got to 'out' him in front of everyone that he is trying to impress. Assuming he is a genuine Walt, find lots of information on what he pretends to have done, get him to relate stories of his derring-do in front of the group. Make him dig a LARGE hole for himself and use your knowledge to slowly knock him down.

Making him squirm and finally admit his dishonesty in front of his peers will be the ultimate humiliation for him.

I doubt whether he will do it again.

[Rigga]

Not wanting to appear a bit of a Walt myself - and speaking as an "Ex".
If I had occasion to wear my medals - would it be considered Rude or Waltish, to wear the Saudi and Kuwaiti medals that I couldn't wear whilst in the RAF?
At present they are all buried in a deep box somewhere in the Garage.


Oops! Forgot to say that I have seen many of my ex-oppo's with rows of medals - 'cause they had done many things on SF/SH.
Age, Rank or Trade doesn't make a lesser man - just less expectations in others.

[The Helpful Stacker]

Not wanting to appear a bit of a Walt myself - and speaking as an "Ex".
If I had occasion to wear my medals - would it be considered Rude or Waltish, to wear the Saudi and Kuwaiti medals that I couldn't wear whilst in the RAF?
At present they are all buried in a deep box somewhere in the Garage.
Oops! Forgot to say that I have seen many of my ex-oppo's with rows of medals - 'cause they had done many things on SF/SH.
Age, Rank or Trade doesn't make a lesser man - just less expectations in others.

If the Queen (or King) hasn't said you can wear it I reckon its a tad walty.

Yes you were presented it for taking part in an operation, and yes they are very shiny and nice but you were also issued a legit one sanctioned by Liz in the big house, London. Wear that one with pride and leave the African dictator style medals at home.

[Maple 01]

To support THS, the Yank that sat next to me in Berlin received one of the Kuwait baubles because 'it was a team effort' :yuk:

Naah, IMO if Liz said you can't wear it........OTOH have a look at the current Private Eye for a description of King (U/T) Chuck Windsor's (nee Saxe-Coburg-Gotha) medal bar

[DC10RealMan]

I spent a few days on a military history tour of Arnhem guided by a member of the Airbourne Museum staff. He told me a story of a man who turns up every year at the commemoration claiming to be one of the few survivors of the Arnhem landings in September 1944. Our guide tells me that after a little research that this man was never there, but finds it difficult to "out him".
Stealing "Dead Mens Glory" is in my opinion a most despicable act and I would have no mercy on him.

[fantom]

Agreed. I trust a few of you have been to Ypres. A life-changing experience, even now.
Anyway, one has heard of persons turning up on occasions with no less than fake MCs/DFCs/AFCs/whatever-they-can get-away-withs.
Nothing less than a severe beasting is merited.

[Cumbrian Fell]

Not wishing to create a small amount of thread drift, but at least Charles has served in the Forces, will one day be CINC, knows how to behave and takes his job seriously. Moreover he doesn't wear campaign medals and the honorifics 'go with the territory'. New Zealand decided to award him the 'Austin Powers' QSO petal-shaped medal in the early 1980s - the one with the zig-zag ribbon. Now it is simply not the done thing to refuse a medal (ironically bestowed by the Vice Regal) from a loyal Commonwealth member. Who would want to be a Walt when you are Prince of Wales, married to Camilla and have two sons serving in (your) Forces? (some hint of irony)!

[Krystal n chips]

The "Walts" seem to be on the increase then. I can think of four whom I am aware of.

The first used to work with my father--picture always in the local rag, respected war "hero" in Burma--charity worker etc-until the day a new manager arrived-who had been there, and not UK based as was the case with our "hero"---a word to the local rag--and endex the "hero".

The second was somebody who er, not only flew as gunner in Mitchell's over Angola, had a golf handicap around par ( but always declined a game when offered the chance-strange that--for a golfer ) but was also the only F/ E in the world without an "O" licence---given that there is a slight difference between a type rated F/E--and a flying spanner ! Used to keep us entertained on nights though :hmm:

The third was quite recent. Thought there was a chance of doing some business with him so we met. Went straight into his career history --ex Army in this case--and then proceeded to tell me about his gliding exploits. Casually mention the names "x" "y" an "z"--the GSA being a small world after all---and got the "yeah, know them well " routine--which was odd because when I called them later----never heard of the guy. A bit of digging revealed a participation in the GSA, but not "quite to the level" he wished to impress.

The fourth is somebody who claims to have an award--it just doesn't appear in the London Gazette--must be a typo error of course on their part. His latest incarnation is as a "former middle ranking ex Air Force officer". I feel though, the ground may well be just about to open beneath him.

What to do with a Walt is another question. Once they are blown, tempting though it is to expose them, the best course is to ignore----loudly. If they are unstable enough to create another persona, then there is every chance they could react badly and, if they haven't actually harmed anyone in their deception, why risk the chance they could harm themselves as a result of being exposed.

That said, I wish I could name no's 2 and 3 on here though ---:E

[brickhistory]

To support THS, the Yank that sat next to me in Berlin received one of the Kuwait baubles because 'it was a team effort'

Hope he or the command did something GW1 related as those not directly involved were not (supposed to be) awarded the Kuwait decs.

(As I bravely sat out the war 90ft under North Dakota)

[ShyTorque]

One came to work for the same company as me, "Aircrew, Ex Nimrods, *** squadron and just left the mob", he said.

Didn't ring true, somehow.

One of my mates was the current display pilot and Sqn beefer on that squadron so I casually dropped his name into a conversation. This character had never heard of him.

He was later found "wanting in the honesty department" in other areas and was shown the door sharpish, by the Bossman himself.

[RETDPI]

After GW1 I spent some time playing a small "Token Brit" walk-on part on a certain well known base in Southern Turkey.
Bored one day , I took up an invitation to go tanking with the Americans and spent a happy few hours,orbiting over the mountains, lying next to the Boomer and watching the operations.
There were a number of others on board who were spread about the aircraft , displaying a total lack of any interest in proceedings.
After touchdown, said bunch of itinerants headed for the flight deck , where I could see much signing of paperwork in progress.
They had just qualified for their Air Combat medals.

[ChristopherRobin]

Is it not a case of feeling very sorry for this fellow. As QFI alluded perhaps a "public" outing may have disastrous effects for which you may not be prepared. Of course he must be stopped from impersonation but please have a care as you know not what started it. We on here do not have the first hand knowledge that you have AT so it is difficult to be specific, but I am sure you get the gist of it.

Noble thoughts there Working Hard, but personally speaking I'd just laugh at the loser if he topped himself.

[brickhistory]

After touchdown, said bunch of itinerants headed for the flight deck , where I could see much signing of paperwork in progress.
They had just qualified for their Air Combat medals.

ummm, "Air Medals" maybe? I'd wager that they were getting their 'combat pay' and/or 'tax free' exemption forms initialed vs. medals. And if you can wangle it on a flight on the end of the month that goes into the first, it's a two-fer!

[woptb]

Not wishing to create a small amount of thread drift, but at least Charles has served in the Forces, will one day be CINC, knows how to behave and takes his job seriously. Moreover he doesn't wear campaign medals and the honorifics 'go with the territory'. New Zealand decided to award him the 'Austin Powers' QSO petal-shaped medal in the early 1980s - the one with the zig-zag ribbon. Now it is simply not the done thing to refuse a medal (ironically bestowed by the Vice Regal) from a loyal Commonwealth member. Who would want to be a Walt when you are Prince of Wales, married to Camilla and have two sons serving in (your) Forces? (some hint of irony)!

Does 'k408ing' a brother officers wife count as "knowing how to behave" :}

[WasNaeMe]

Oooh there goes a gong..............

[geezerBJ]

Agreed. I trust a few of you have been to Ypres. A life-changing experience, even now.
Anyway, one has heard of persons turning up on occasions with no less than fake MCs/DFCs/AFCs/whatever-they-can get-away-withs.
Nothing less than a severe beasting is merited.

I think a beasting is a bit harsh.

Before you go down the public humiliation route please take time out and think why Walt may be acting the way he is. If he is suffering a mental illness ... and I know of plenty ex combatants that are ... your actions will cause more harm than good.
I suggest you do your homework, make sure you get your facts straight and have a quiet word in his shell like.

[Woodgreen]

Ex-Combatants tend to have real medals and stories that they are usually unwilling to share with people that do not understand (such as wives/girlfriends/best civvy mate)

Walts should be humiliated as soon as possible! They do the Armed Forces immeasurable damage with their lies!

[fantom]

I think a beasting is a bit harsh.

Before you go down the public humiliation route ...

OK, agreed. I am not an expert but I can get as cross as the next man. etc., etc..

[RETDPI]

I knew one Walt who, to different people, was reportedly the youngest RN captain "of a Corvette" supporting the D-Day landings as well as being an RAF transport aircraft captain on the Berlin Air Lift. In addition he was, amongst a list of other impressive post-nominals we didn't bother to check out, a Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers -who by some unfortunate oversight had never heard of him.
What was true was that at the time he was the Group Managing Director of a well known set of UK listed companies.

[mary_hinge]

Remember this one from the Summer.

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=17252868%26method=full%26siteid=66633%26headline =army%2dfraud%2dis%2dconning%2dnew%2dbride%2d-name_page.html

I recall at the time of the trial, he was the yongest to set sail with the Task Force, being 2 years old at the time of conflict:yuk:

[GPMG]

I think a beasting is a bit harsh.

Before you go down the public humiliation route please take time out and think why Walt may be acting the way he is. If he is suffering a mental illness ... and I know of plenty ex combatants that are ... your actions will cause more harm than good.

Sorry but namby pamby doesnt always work. Screw the walt and protect the name of those he is denigrating.

I have no sympathy with people that lie about their life. If they can't be arsed to do something special or be someone decent then they don't deserve to pretend to be someone that did.

It's like these re-enactment bunch, dressing up as US GI's and poncing around in jeeps at the weekend. Grow up and join the real army. My Nephew does it and whenever he trys to talk about it I just change the subject, it's embarrasing.

[Maple 01]

Sorry Brick, I don't think the 690ESW was within Scud range at Templehof! (or FSB) The Pizzas there were great though :ok: He was embarrassed to get the Occupation of Germany medal a little earlier - apparently that technically made him a vet of WWII??

[An Teallach]

Yes, I remember that one, Mary. I suppose my current problem and that one pale into insignificance compared to Capt Sir Alan McIlwraith KBE DSO MC (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Mcilwraith) :uhoh:

Looks like he'd have a hard job fighting his way out of a chip-poke!

[spillage]

What about the chimp who conned his way to an OBE or MBE during the summer? Wasn't he an 'officer' in the VR (T) and made the effort to big himself up at every opportunity, whilst raking in the cash from bogus charity work.

[FCWhippingBoy]

You mean this (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cambridgeshire/5297966.stm) bloke?

[J_W]

About five years ago not long after starting a new job as an assistant manager in a pub in darkest scumtown, some guy came in claiming to be ex army raising money for the kid of one of his army mates who had leukemia or something similar. The guy seemed genuine, and wanting to make as impression in my new job, I badgered the owner into having a charity night for the guy. We had donations at the door and planned to raffle off all the promotional bumf that was cluttering up the celler. On the night this character arrives in uniform weighed down by a truly stagering amount of gongs, and goes about thanking everybody for turning up etc. As the night goes on the stories start getting wilder and wilder (knowing nothing about the military I put it down to a few too many shandies). Shortly before closing four of Strathclydes finest burst in the door and walk through the bar taking a good look at all the customers. While im dealing with them (unrelated matter) said character aparently goes chalk white and goes for a cool sharp harp, never to be seen again.

Think the guy was at it. Certainly made me look like a right :mad: with all the customers and the owner. If the police hadnt have come in when they did the guy would have walked away with the best part of £600 and nobody would have been any the wiser. As a result the owner, who was not the most charatable at the best of times, now blanks any kind of charity approaches.

On a lighter note, in the summer i met a guy working as a security guard in a bank who kept us all amused with stories about his service in Iraq with the TA SAS. Won a medal for his part in a covert mission that involved him hand peeling 80,000 spuds in just one day. Why? "Cant tell you that. National security".!

[Dan Winterland]

After GW1 I spent some time playing a small "Token Brit" walk-on part on a certain well known base in Southern Turkey.
Bored one day , I took up an invitation to go tanking with the Americans and spent a happy few hours,orbiting over the mountains, lying next to the Boomer and watching the operations.
There were a number of others on board who were spread about the aircraft , displaying a total lack of any interest in proceedings.
After touchdown, said bunch of itinerants headed for the flight deck , where I could see much signing of paperwork in progress.
They had just qualified for their Air Combat medals.

We used to take passengers up in the VC10 from the same airbase. A PA when you crossed the border usually went "We are now flying over Iraq. For those who are Americans on board today, you can now claim your medal. For other nationalities, you can have a cup of tea".

The problem with a Walt is when people believe him and he ends up in a position of responsibility. Ernest Gann tells of one who beacme a management pilot in a airline he flew for. Although this pilot was the capatin of a DC6, when Mr Gann did his line check it was quite clear that the chap had no more flying skills than a new PPL. He left that airline, went to another and crashed - killing all on board. Obviously there is an element of fraud involved in this which is way above a Walt spinning a few yarns in the pub. But if a Walt prepared to lie about that, what else is he capable of?

Outing is th best policy.

[Cumbrian Fell]

Although many impersonators are just deluded by their own sense of inadequacy, there seems to be a worrying and quite unhealthy link between Walts, children and guns. I recall when I was in Air Cadets that there were two officers dismissed from my unit for 'inappropriate' behaviour. At 14 or so we - the cadets - thought these guys were great, plying us with beer, leaving copies of Playboy around etc etc. One of them claimed - though not directly - to have been in the SIS and they used to arrange for a local militaria collector - who would wear a psuedo naval uniform- to bring weapons along to informal weekend camps. This character was locked up twice for child sex offences (though not involving cadets). An illustrative example is at http://www.anzmi.net/mccarthy/mccarthy.html What you let him near your kids? Would you let them wear a hat like that??

Supporting the above poster: if they are prepared to lie about death and destruction, what else are they capable of doing?

[ARINC]

Interesting thread here

http://www.dynamictruth.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?/ubb/get_topic/f/1/t/003900.html

[RETDPI]

I think that "Walts", "Re-enactors" , "Guns'n ammo" freaks and those strutting around in pseudo flying kit at Air Displays are all causes for concern.

[MrBernoulli]

A Walt who wants to tell war stories? Well, dish him some combat military justice - up against the wall and shoot the bastard! Pathetic low-life.

[Archimedes]

You mean this (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cambridgeshire/5297966.stm) bloke?

Who no longer has his MBE... click (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cambridgeshire/6196884.stm)

[Mystic Greg]

A story I heard second hand, but it is worth passing on and I really hope it is true...

Day 1 of the Airshow at a base not far south of Lincoln, a young-ish chap turns up at the gate in a passable impression of an airman's uniform and tries to get in without paying. The guards rumble him immediately, but decide to pursue the matter. A call is made to the SWO, who obligingly delivers a massive b*ll*cking to 'SAC Walt' for the standard of his shoes, his non-regulation haircut etc etc and then invites him to join a work party to sweep out one of the hangars.

[Flap62]

Remember standing beside one of her Majesty's finest nozzly jets and having a lady of a certain vintage approach me. She had the full mad, old woman kit - long floral skirt with wasteband dissappearing under an unfeasably pendulous bosom which was heading towards her knees, a beard like a rhodedendron bush and a faint Eau de Cat. In a perfect margaret Rutherford voice, she proceeded to tell me how the jet had changed in the days since she had been OC IV Sqn! Mad as a bucket of frogs but not strictly a walt.

[RETDPI]

Remember standing beside one of her Majesty's finest nozzly jets and having a lady of a certain vintage approach me. She had the full mad, old woman kit - long floral skirt with wasteband dissappearing under an unfeasably pendulous bosom which was heading towards her knees, a beard like a rhodedendron bush and a faint Eau de Cat. In a perfect margaret Rutherford voice, she proceeded to tell me how the jet had changed in the days since she had been OC IV Sqn! Mad as a bucket of frogs but not strictly a walt.
T**y Ch****n on the town again no doubt.

[Rossian]

OK An Teallach
The spread of advice seems to cover everything from hanging, through public humiliation to "aw diddums" counselling approach. Whatcha gonna do?
Personally, I'd go for the VERY carefully researched background and a "created" occasion to skewer the chap, but very slowly, so that he can fully savour the awfulness of his situation as it dawns on him. Did he appear to be a stupid person? In which case all that effort might be wasted. You've had 4 pages of advice - I say again - whatcha gonna do?
The Ancient Mariner

[Mystic Greg]

Having been on the wrong end of a wind-up originated by An Teallach - which was devilishly cunning and (afterwards) amusing - I have complete confidence in his ability to deal with his 'Walt' and look forward to the debrief in this forum.

[Melchett01]

If he is ex-serving but has a TELIC gong, he must be fairly recent of this parish. Depending how cruel you want to be, you could always knock up a re-call notice, informing him that a re-called to duty as part of the reserves is in the offing for a lot of people and will likely be going to Afghanistan.

You could always back it up with some paperwork - maybe a bodged photoshopped newspaper article, some internet cuttings, a made up letter saying you have to report for trg etc and he will prob get his in a couple of weeks time etc to ram it home that bit harder. Watch his reaction as he is faced with the prospect of actually having to go and do something to earn his gongs.

A simple det to the Stan shouldn't be a problem for someone with a chestfull of op medals and an MBE to boot. ...... Or am I being a bit too cruel here?

[Sunfish]

I've seen four "Walts", three military and one nautical who claimed to have sailed the Atlantic single handed many times.

Before you do anything, I would suggest a discrete call to central army records office or whatever the British Equivalent is. Simply pass on the name, rank, number, regiment, any dates and apparent gongs and ask them to confirm the existence of such a person with a simple yes or no.

If you fail to do this, you could possibly be unintentionally slandering someone.

Then, assuming CARO says "No" simply get your association secretary to write him a private letter in which you "fail to understand certain anomalies in your service record." and ask for an explanation. That will usually see them slink away.

On the other hand if he is genuine, the blistering reply your secretary will no doubt receive should be followed with an invitation to talk about his unusual service at an appropriate function.

You should take action to resolve it though. Two of the military Walts I saw caused a great deal of mischief and confusion before they were unmasked, both made sensational claims that made the newspapers.

[Dan Winterland]

Although many impersonators are just deluded by their own sense of inadequacy, there seems to be a worrying and quite unhealthy link between Walts, children and guns.

Anyone remember 'The Guvner' ?

[Cumbrian Fell]

No - who was/is the Guvnor?

[An Teallach]

Many thanks for all the advice, chaps & chapesses.

I'm still waiting to hear back from the Regtl Association, though it really is only for confirmation.

Much as I might find the set piece build-up then knock-down rather delicious, as El Presidente of our society is a clergyman, I suspect rather more Christian charity may be the order of the day. Walter will probably get off with a quiet 'never darken our door again'.

Judging by the warning at the top of the Wikipedia page on the 1997 New Year's Honours List (http://http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year_Honours_1997), my pet Walt is probably not the only one clogging up the list.

However, I'll let you know how it all pans out.

[An Teallach]

Well, for those who asked for a debrief, the Black Watch Regimental Association got back to me today and, unsurprisingly neither they nor the RHQ have heard of SSgt McMitty MBE, VD & Scar. The icing on the cake, though, is that Walt and his wife's visas have been revoked by the Home Office and they are to leave the country at the weekend. Sadly, I don't know the reason for the deportation and presume it wasn't for walting since you don't get deported for murder with this government!

Needless to say, a copy of the reply from the Black Watch will be winging its way to our sister society in the USA so that any application for membership from the McMittys may be properly considered before it is rejected.

Another nicely ironic touch: In his letter, the gentleman from the real Black Watch has asked me to propose him for membership of our society; so having disposed of McMitty, I won't even be down on membership.

Though I've always had my doubts, perhaps there is a god ... and our society's Reverend President has a hotline! Note to self: Remember not to upset El Presidente!

[An Teallach]

Oops! 2 days after my last post, our Reverend President was mown down in a weekend of carnage on Scottish roads. A great shame, he was a fine chap.

However, to finish the McMitty saga. The dirty deed of the outing has been done. Here is the exchange verbatim except for that which is in squared brackets to try to preserve anonymity. It gives an interesting insight into the delusional mind. It's a shame really, he came across as a nice chap on meeting him.

13 February 2007: Walt to AT

[AT] could you please let us know whats going on, being out of the country no news you know! Cheers mate!

14 Feb 07: AT to Walt

Dear [Walt]

[The event] went well and was well attended, please pass on my thanks to [Mrs McMitty] for the work she put in.

That said, I regret to inform you that following the Annual Gathering, we made enquiries of the Black Watch and they deny having known you. I presume it was you who made the entry [on Wikipedia for McMitty, SSGT Walter], (537967) Black Watch from IP Address [*****] at 15:02 on 17 Sep 06.

I should inform you that the Army number 537967 would belong to a commissioned officer. The rank SSGT would be written as Staff Sgt in such a list, but that is academic since there are no Staff Sgts in the Black Watch; the infantry have Colour Sgts. Furthermore, in a formal list the regiment would be listed as The Black Watch (RHR).

The [Committee] considered the evidence from Wikipedia, other internet information which places you in the USA in 1997 and the reply from the Black Watch and we concluded that you were wearing medals and claiming service to which you were not entitled, commonly known as “Walting.” A particularly distasteful gesture as the event occurred on Remembrance Day.

As the Wikipedia entry was made in Sep 2006, we can only conclude that [Mrs McMitty] was ‘in on’ the attempted deception. We have therefore decided that we shall not take a subscription from either of you for 2007 or in the future and you should no longer consider yourselves members of the [Society].

15 Feb 07: Walt to AT

This is bull**** [AT], and you know it. I know who came up with this crap, [M] and [N] right! I was wearing medels of my father and grandfather, which Im legally entitled to wear and which I never said were mine, and I was in the ROTC of the Black Watch. So just basing evidence on this wiki web site which by the way is not a .org web site which can not be fully trusted, and some other web sites, and then blaming [Mrs McMitty]! What the hell mate, I guess maybe [Mrs McMitty] and I were right about the [societies] then, they never change do they. I regret that [Mrs McMitty] put so much into getting the event ready for YOU and the others. What a waste that you are believing web sites such as thoughs.

15 Feb 07: AT to Walt

Dear [Walt]

Thank you for your e-mail. The exposure of your walting had nothing to do with [M] and [N], it was the Ex-Servicemen at the gathering that noticed something was amiss, myself included. We did not get confirmation from the Black Watch until the Thursday before you left.

You are not entitled to wear miniatures of your father’s and/or grandfather’s medals. Full size medals of parents or spouses may be worn at remembrance events only on the right breast (not the left) by widow(er)s or children. The Black Watch doesn’t have an ROTC (no British Army unit does) and you told me and others that night that you had served in the Black Watch.

No-one “blamed” (your word) [Mrs McMitty]. However, it is unfortunate for your professed denials that she had you listed as “Piper: [Walter McMitty] MBE” in the programme for the Annual Gathering. As you’ll see from these links, the trail of your walting on the web extends well beyond Wikipedia:
[link to archived version of a tour site for which he worked as a guide]
[Walter McMitty] was born in England, and moved throughout the world as he was growing up. He has experienced almost everything on the 'adventurer's to-do list': from climbing China's Great Wall to walking the plains of Russia to hiking Mount Kilimanjaro before the age of 20. An experienced bagpiper, [Walter] served as a medic in the British Army. He is completing his master's degree in Scottish history, and loves reading, hiking and playing the pipes ... as well as exploring castles.
[link to his Alma Mater in the USA]
From England to Connecticut, to Washington State, to Hong Kong, to Scotland…this is the winding path of [Walter McMitty] ’88, soldier, historian, teacher and bagpiper extraordinaire.

And, of course, to top it all, your own website:

[link to his ‘wedding piper’ website]
Sergeant in the Royal Highland Regimental The Black Watch Pipe Band for 12 years and trained as a medic. …
List of Credits Winner of 2 gold and 4 silver piping awards M.B.E. (Member of the British Empire) F.H.S. (Fellow of Historical Society) Hon. F.R.A.M. (Honorary Member Royal Academy of Music)
It is patently obvious from your lack of knowledge of the British Army that you have never served in it and if the Royal Academy of Music has ever heard of you, I’m a monkey’s uncle.

It is a pity, you struck me as a nice guy. However, if I may offer some advice, I would recommend that you ditch your delusional past and decorations and concentrate on getting on with life. That future will be without [the society].

I wish you and [Mrs McMitty] well.

16 Feb 07: Walt to AT

Oh and by the way [AT]. I know that us leaving you in the lurch with leaving due to [Mrs McMitty]’s visa problem. When I emailed you, it was about [the President’s] funeral, you emailing us back with this very rude email about army ****, now I remember why I left Britain before. You Scottish are the ruddist people. [M] and [N] I can understand, they are just stuid, but for you to say the things you did about [Mrs McMitty] after what she did for you, rude. She and were right when we talked to [the President], that [committee] was a waste of our time, and I guess we cant think of you as a friend now. Sorry, but just think about what you said, and the way it was put. Rude, but being Scottish, I guess you dont know the difference of being rude is, no wonder it was so easy for the English to take over Scotland! Stuid and rude, oh well I no longer want to be part of [the Society] anymore, nor does [Mrs McMitty], rude, rude rude is what you guys are to us!

[PPRuNeUser0211]

Alright mate, dont flash.....

[570mils]

That said, I regret to inform you that following the Annual Gathering, we made enquiries of the Black Watch and they deny having known you. I presume it was you who made the entry [on Wikipedia for McMitty, SSGT Walter], (537967) Black Watch from IP Address [*****] at 15:02 on 17 Sep 06.

Gents as a visitor from the illustrious world of ARRSE I can help here a little. Yon Walter I gather is a veteran but without a doubt the number is a fraud........That number would have been issued on commisioning from RMA Sandhurst in about 1993/94.

Cerainly noat a SSgt and my Grandfather would turn in his grave at the thought of a SSgt in his beloved Regiment, or what's left of it these days.

Oh and Hello all.

570

[Dan Gerous]

Aren't Pipers in the Army, regular Infantrymen, as the Pipes are classed as a weapon of war, as opposed to other Musicians in the services, who carry out a medical role?

[An Teallach]

Dan,

Pipers and Drummers are stll employed as stretcher bearers on ops when not playing Jocks 'over the top'.

[J.A.F.O.]

Looking at his apparent disappearance from the wiki page but the appearance of a similarly named RN chap, I wonder if it's a coincidence or if the story continues?

[TEEEJ]

He still has the M.B.E listed on his website.

[Kitbag]

Aren't Pipers in the Army, regular Infantrymen, as the Pipes are classed as a weapon of war, as opposed to other Musicians in the services, who carry out a medical role?

Personally I think bagpipes should be included on the list of cruel and unusual punishments. :ok:

[An Teallach]

I recall a Sqn Ldr who was Noel Coward's (sur)namesake and who similarly came across as terribly, terribly English coming to me gleefully waving a cutting from the Torygraph. There had been a flurry of letters regarding what constitutes a gentleman. Someone had written in with:

A gentleman is someone who can play the bagpipes ... but doesn't!

However, he continued to let me have access to a disused bldg sufficiently far from civilization for me to practice in.

[Maple 01]

As ARRSE has a Waltenkommando, perhaps AT could be the PPRuNe (armed wing) Whitch finder General?

[An Teallach]

Maple

I tend to follow the old Gaelic proverb Na sir 's na seachainn an cath- Neither seek nor shun the fight. If a Walt wishes to appear in my sights, I'll gladly take aim. However, I'll leave actively seeking them out to others.

[skua]

Sorry this is a little late for the man in question. But there is a tool designed for just this task. Go to your nearest store, buy a 10mm drill bit, insert into the big yellow machine, turn on the power, and apply to the Walt's, say, hands and feet. hey presto he is De Walted !

Skua

[An Teallach]

Skua
You should be hung for walting it as a comic for an appalling pun like that!;)

[BEagle]

Na sir 's na seachainn an cath

You sure that isn't Klingon?

[An Teallach]

I don't know, BEags: I'll have to bow to your greater Trekkie knowledge.

Perhaps you could ask at your next convention about the relationship between Klingon and Gaelic? If there is a relationship, you could always find out for me if Klingon is a P or a Q celtic language. Go on, see if that'll stump Spock!

[BEagle]

Oooh you bitch!

I was once at the bookshop at the Smithsonian and noticed a 'Klingon-English Dictionary'. Intrigued, I had a look. The entry which amused me was something along the lines of:

'Sorry' - (there is no direct translation as the concept of apology is unknown to Klingons)

[teeteringhead]

So it's Klingons who work at PMA........;)

[An Teallach]

I was once at the bookshop at the Smithsonian and noticed a 'Klingon-English Dictionary'
Aye, OK BEags! Sounds as convincing as "I was in the Black Watch ROTC"!

Is that BEags second from the right? I think we should be told!;)
http://www.fedcon.de/pics/website/bruecke_3.jpg

[Double Zero]

Congrats on a tactul & highly efficient de-walting, I must admit I like some others was a little concerned the result might be tragic.

Then I saw your final report details !

BTW I am not walting - I, unlike my Dad ( R.N, W.W.2 ), was never in the Forces, but was on civvy BAe test team.

Klingon, like Gaelic, has no word for ' fluffy' either, and one can see visible similarities ( Dad is from Strathdon ).

Don't underestimate the trekkies, you may get deluged with translations - Kapla !

[Washington_Irving]

Strathdon- Now, I forget. Is that on the Homeworld or one of the colonies?:8

[Double Zero]

It's a colony we don't like to speak of much now - the other family warlords set forth relying on Disruptor fire and considering the Genesis Device a pretty big thing - but the Strathdonian's, the most feared, pitiless and brutal warriors of all, developed - THE BAGPIPE !

Is this the record for thread creep yet ?!

[Soup_Dragon]

He'd be welcome. The Legion of Frontiersmen thread is gathering pace and we'd love some backup from the PPrune community to spread the word - not least because some punter out there is raising a Squadron of RAuxAF (Frontiersmen) near St Athan!

By the way, on the subject of Walts, if anyone is getting the military lantern swung at them by the spitting image of Idi Amin in flying coveralls then take care - and PM me for the details!

[Cumbrian Fell]

A worrying lot of poseurs. (Postings passim). If they are the uniformed lot, they shine in reflected glory of Service personnel of yor, and if they were lucky, they may have served in the Cadets.

[Fg Off Max Stout]

Soup Dragon,

Would that be N.H.A.F-M, by any chance?

I've just sent you a Private Message.

Max

[Curious One]

Hi guys. I started another thread because I've got what turns out to be an ex-air force "Walt" at work. He's a skilled Walt though, because he seems to have enough fact, or "faction" :) in his "war stories" that they could be true. Also, he seems to thrive in a non-military setting where civvies don't know the scoop so can't call him on his B.S. Anyway, I've noticed that the stories tend to come out best when he's been drinking, which judging by his permanently flushed face, is a lot. He's a strange little guy, fidgety and nervous, all 5' 6" inches of him. (I suspect 'short man's complex' but I'm no doctor:O )

He was an airplane mechanic, working on training jets for the Canadian air force. Why I suspected him of B.S. is because of the following tales:

1. he claims to have knocked out a British sergeant-major in a bar with one punch after the sergeant supposedly insulted his beer of choice (the pattern of "one punch knock-outs of superior ranks" will become apparent;

2. he claims to have "throttled" a captain in a hockey game and, again, knocked the guy out unconscious;

3. he claims to have been at a party where he was only one of two enlisted men there and everybody else was a pilot or a navigator, and one pilot was drunk and loud, saying he had to go "f***ing flying in the morning so he couldn't drink any more" at which point, one-punch Walt claims he said "you're going f***ing flying now and threw the guy out the door." (Gee, I didn't know officers and non-coms drank together - maybe the Canadian military is different, huh?:rolleyes: ) Amazing thing, in my Walt's world, is how such a little guy can get so physical, especially with officers, and not suffer repercussions. LOL

Anyway, I thought I was alone in smelling a distinct odour of ..... well, something other than truth, LOL. However the guys were talking at lunchtime today about Canada's military mission in Afghanistan. And boy, oh boy, did the guy ever "Walt" into that one. Not that anyone even gave a hoot about what he did almost 40 years ago, but he starts talking about how when he was based in Quebec back in 1970, he had to patrol the perimeter of the base, all by himself (of course - tough enough to be sent out by himself I guess:rolleyes: ) armed with a machine gun that could cut a guy in half. Why'd you have to do that, asks one of the young guys? Oh man, it was because French terrorists were trying to overthrow the government.

Then somebody else said, I never heard of that. I heard there were a couple of kidnappings and a murder back then but then the police cracked down on it pretty quickly. Then, and here's the kicker, one of the other retired military guys said, quietly and in a tone that suggested he knew what he was talking about, "I find it kind of odd that an airplane mechanic would be put on guard duty around a Canadian base. That's a job that the Military Police would've typically been assigned and if there was any real threat to the base, the army would've be called in to patrol the perimeter."

You should've seen the look on old Stan's face. He blushed and got this "I'm lost" look on his face, and smiled weakly and kind of chuckled. Then this young guy, without missing a beat, said, hey, "we've got Rambo here"! And everybody cracked up. I suspect we won't be hearing many more "Walt" stories any more.:D

So, it seems that laughing at these goofs may be a good way of dealing with Waltness.

[Maple 01]

"I find it kind of odd that an airplane mechanic would be put on guard duty around a Canadian base. That's a job that the Military Police would've typically been assigned and if there was any real threat to the base, the army would've be called in to patrol the perimeter."

Ha! Let it be known that in the 1980's one of HMs RAF station perimeters was bravely defended by a reluctant Maple and an offensive WAAF on foot armed only with a flashlight and a Storno between them against the threat of

a. Spetsnaz
b. The IRA

Military Police my ARRSE

[ShyTorque]

It's a fact that both the Spetsnaz and the IRA never attacked an offensive WAAF.

They were terrified of the thought of those upside down legs.... :E

[Wader2]

And the beard.

[airborne_artist]

And the beard
In the words of the song: one black one, one white one and one with a bit of sh!te on :E

[charliegolf]

AA

I thought the song referred to the hairs on her..... Oh, nevermind!

CG

[airborne_artist]

CG - you mean 80s WAAFs had hairs in their chin as well? :E

[brickhistory]

It's a fact that both the Spetsnaz and the IRA never attacked an offensive WAAF.

They were terrified of the thought of those upside down legs....




I thought Britain had sworn not to use biological weapons......

[Wader2]

CG it was <<hang down to her knees >> not down from her chin.

[Maple 01]

I thought Britain had sworn not to use biological weapons......

We lied! (Actually she was a babe, but the exception that proves the rule)

[Curious One]

Well Maple, I guess as long as there are 5' 6" "Rambo Walts" in the former colonies, ready to defend us all by themselves with the mighty power of their one punch knockouts, we can sleep well at night, LOL

However the thought has struck me, couldn't we just save the taxpayers of the UK, Canada et. al. a lot of money if we pulled our troops from Afghanistan and sent over "one-punch Walt" to take care of Osama and the boys?:D

[highcirrus]

Until I'd read this thread and the relevant one on AARSE, I hadn’t realised the extent of the “Walter Mitty” subculture that seems to exist throughout Australasia, UK and North America and whose collective fantasies feed on stylised perceptions of what can be termed the western military ethos.

I’ve just checked out The Legion of Frontiersmen (http://www.geocities.com/Pentagon/1172/) website and with bemused curiosity, clicked Other Commands (http://www.geocities.com/Pentagon/1172/Command.htm) which details the “Commandant General” at “Commonwealth Command Headquarters”, as Lieutenant General Ronald J Potter LMSM, LSEM, LCM (no “K” with such a distinguished rank?). A quick Google search showed only one link (strange, as surely such a gallant figure would occasion more references in the course of a glittering career?) titled Legion of Frontiersmen (Countess Mountbatten's Own) (http://www.regiments.org/regiments/uk/specfor/frontier.htm), corrected and updated 14.07.2006 and containing details of uniform, medals, battle honours etc.

Harmless fantasy? It all made my skin crawl a little.

[Wader2]

highcirrus, I looked at the diary on the link and found it ran out in 1999. Maybe, with globalisation, there are no more frontiers here on earth.:)

[highcirrus]

Wader 2

Like I said, one of the links was last updated on 14 July 2006 and someone has been paying the monthly website charges since then. Maybe whoever it is can do it online from the planet Zog?

[Wader2]

highcirrus, agreed. It was the UK site that was way out. I found in the Oz site other links one of which was Schism. Seems like they are a disparate bunch but not entirely without history or traditions. I see they claim Lady Mountbatten as their patron.

They sound not unlike Walter Walker's plans of an organisation to aid the civil power.

They also have more medals than we do;

http://www.frontiersmen.org.au/downloads/ribbon_chart.pdf

[BEagle]

"I see they claim Lady Mountbatten as their patron."

Presumably they have a medal for 'Indian service' then.....:E

[An Teallach]

Presumably they have a medal for 'Indian service' then.....

Either that or it would have been one for extreme patience waiting for hubby to take an interest! :E

[BEagle]

You are clearly of an historical bent!

(No pun intended!)


















OK - perhaps a little one!

[RETDPI]

Nehru a truer word said.

[side salad]

I see they have a Beaver Clasp at the end of their ribbons list, having clasped a few beavers in my time, and been slapped for it, I wonder if I would get one if I joined?

They look like a fun little organisation, just right for those who have lost their grip on the real world........... Wonder if the top brass has thought about joining?

Perhaps we should ask them to go and scout somewhere sandy?

[airborne_artist]

From: http://www.geocities.com/Pentagon/1172/Author.htm

"Personal Bit

I am 39 years old, married to Lesley and have a son, Declan, who is almost 4 years old. I am employed by Palmer Cook Computer Services Ltd. as a computer engineer. I have only 3 real interests in my life, My family, The Legion and Computers ( Yes, I suppose that I am a bit of a nerd).Suffice to say that I am keen on programming ( Delphi, C++, VB and SQL), I work on computers and spend every spare moment I get sitting at my computer - doing things like this (Not much of a games player)."

Bet their Mess Dinners are a barrel of laughs ;)

[An Teallach]

Perhaps the Earl of Bumma and I should be awarded the NZ Legion 'Gay Pride' Star of Merit 1st Class! I wonder if this is ever awarded with a 'Beaver Clasp': It would make an interesting mix!

http://frontiersmen.homestead.com/files/LSM_type_1.JPG

[BEagle]

That would make it the Burma Brown Star?

To be worn only by the Territorial Lamé?

[An Teallach]

I don't know about a Brown Star, but they appear to have a Chocolate Starfish Medal:
http://frontiersmen.homestead.com/files/Centennial.JPG

Maybe I'm missing a trick here and they are a front for ex-military gayboys. I wonder where the recruiting office is?

[Statty]

[Quote -Maybe I'm missing a trick here and they are a front for ex-military gayboys. I wonder where the recruiting office is? - /Quote]

No-one will answer they're all in mourning - not seen the news?<img>

[highcirrus]

Looks like these guys also have a pretty extensive command structure that seems to include what looks like a Beaver Command, from whence, presumably, originates the Beaver Clasp:

http://www.regiments.org/img/badges/uk-crest/misc/lf-uk.gif http://www.regiments.org/img/badges/uk-crest/misc/lf-imp.gif http://www.regiments.org/img/badges/uk-crest/misc/lf-ca2.gif http://www.regiments.org/img/badges/uk-crest/misc/lf-scot.gif http://www.regiments.org/img/badges/uk-crest/misc/lf-ioc.gif

The details are in Command and Division Crests (http://www.regiments.org/regiments/uk/specfor/frontier.htm#colours)

[jstars2]

Adventure Day Out at Walt Central

http://www.frontiersmenhistorian.info/leapfest.jpg

The British North America Command and the Eastern Canada Command take part in friendship parachute drops around the world. This is an illustration from August 2003 reproduced by kind permission of SSG Brian Roorda.

More fun in The Legion of Frontiersmen's Today's News - Tomorrow's History (http://www.frontiersmenhistorian.info/today.htm)