[SFENGR]

OK guys,

Here are my answers -

1. How many of you know how to select the right size and then shape it correctly so that it doesn't hang over your ear and face?

Ans - I was taught to get a beret that was 1-2 sizes smaller and stretch if to fit. That way, it wouldn't have the damn overhang that you see on some troopers - both SF, Ranger, and Airborne don't seem to have not passed this trick along.

This is the biggest gripe I have about the newbies, esp now with the Black Beret given to all of the troops by SHITneski.
Also -

2. How many have ripped out the liner to make it cooler..and the 100% prize for beers -

Like Tery indicated, the old style had either a plastic liner or something that looked like quilted insulation. Too damn hot in the sub or tropical areas if you were in garrsion.

3. How many have replaced the liners with parachute silk with an embroidered design..?

I lot of the guys on Oki did that simply because they could. We had a bunch of people that catered to SF, makng Tigers, plaques, special gear that couldn't be bought or procured thru the S-4. I guess we felt that it made the beret unique. I have a dragon in mine along with my name and SSAN.

4. where do you stow it when in the field, wearing your Boonie Hat? And why?

I usually stowed it in my right leg pocket, only because I'm right handed. It was to provide instant recognition to the friendly FACs or other airborne dudes looking of the bad guys. If all you had was your boonie hat, you could easily be mistaken for the bad guys. SAMO SAMO in Iraq and Afghanland I would imagine.

Perhaps Terry had it easier and left his in the locker because he was a commo dude and had instant commo withthe flyboys. HEH HEH.