Useless fact of the minute
I was watching yet another educational program about the history of the snipers. They were heavily used in ship-to-ship battles whereby the snipers would perch on the top of the masts during battles. In the ensuing melee, it was often hard to tell friend from foe. To stay alive, the smart ones would put corded rope on the top of their hats. Thus, even with a smoky battle, snipers were able to prevent friendly fire. The tradition lives on with an insignia on the top of a Marine hat made of corded rope. I realize photo doesn't have the top of the marine cap... yet how could I resist displaying my elementary-school humor of photo of two flamboyant Asian marines? [Posted: 5/29/06]
