Space_Cadet
I don't have a funny description.
I was wondering, is there anyone here that is interested in militaria? Any hobbyists?
I was wondering, is there anyone here that is interested in militaria? Any hobbyists?
I have some of my great Uncle's patches, his brass belt buckle. From WWII. Priceless to me.
I dislike seeing medals in display cases for sale. I like the Dutch practice, which is that the medals are awarded to the individual, but remain the property of the Crown. As such, when a military Veteran passes, his family receive notice to return the medals. Exceptions are allowed for sentimental reasons but, at some point, those medals will revert to the government, and you will not see someone trying to "cash in" on an ancestor's valour.
That's interesting. What's always struck me as sad is that a family got to the point where it had to "cash in" on something of that nature.
Well put. Sometimes folks die without an heir. Then anything happens.Thing is, until you get to the REALLY rare stuff, none of it is worth more than a few bucks. I've seen (sadly) Purple Hearts for a fiver, $20.00 for a Silver Star. Campaign and theater medals are only a buck or two each.
I think, in general, it's more about a "nobody wants it? Okay, consignment shop," attitude. The sentimental value is allowed for under the Dutch system. But it also takes into account that, when that value is lost, the profiteers cannot diminish the legacy by "commerce".
Thing is, until you get to the REALLY rare stuff, none of it is worth more than a few bucks. I've seen (sadly) Purple Hearts for a fiver, $20.00 for a Silver Star. Campaign and theater medals are only a buck or two each.
I think, in general, it's more about a "nobody wants it? Okay, consignment shop," attitude. The sentimental value is allowed for under the Dutch system. But it also takes into account that, when that value is lost, the profiteers cannot diminish the legacy by "commerce".
War, while sometimes necessary, is always hell. I refuse to glorify it