Fascinating bit of thread drift on the subject of aiguillettes. As a medal/badge nerd, I've certainly learned stuff I didnt previously know.
I know there are different explanations of the origin of the word "aiguillette". One explanation is it is related to
aiguille the French for needle, and derived from the sharp prickers which troops used to wear on a lanyard to clear the touch holes of their muskets, but there are other theories. The word is often pronounced "aiglet", and that is also the name for the little metal or plastic sleeve on your shoelaces to stop them fraying. Useful pub-quiz fodder there!
teeteringhead - I've given up going out - staying in on PPRuNe is much more interesting
