2007-11-20 02:39:38 · 5 answers · asked by genaddt 7 in Arts & Humanities ➔ History
The term "Leathernecks" is derived from the article of uniform issue that the Marines wore during (and for a period time after) the War of Independence.
The "Leatherneck" was a leather scarf type of clothing (hence the term leather neckerchief) that the Marines wore around their neck as part of the uniform they were issued. It served the purpose of supporting the neck of the Marine while they shot as snipers from the masts of the ship they were serving on - toward high ranking Officers and other members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines during our war of Independence and beyond. Additionally, the "leatherneck"(erchief) served to protect the neck of the Marine during sword fights from being swooshed/swiped/nicked by the blade of the offender during hand-to-hand battles.
Hope this helps!
Former U.S. Marine - Semper Fi!
Edit Update: Thankyou "Yankee_Sailor" and thanks for your Service to our Nation.
2007-11-20 03:04:49 · answer #1 · answered by Gerry 7 · 101⤊ 9⤋
Why Are Marines Called Leathernecks
2016-10-01 00:50:37 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
back in the day that was part of the uniform, a leather band that went around the neck. I was in the corp, and that was part of the history class we had to learn and understand.
2007-11-20 02:49:50 · answer #3 · answered by gifted 4 · 20⤊ 1⤋
Some former uniforms worn by marines had high leather collars
2007-11-20 02:48:19 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 16⤊ 4⤋
a 4.0 to Gerry D
2007-11-20 04:19:37 · answer #5 · answered by yankee_sailor 7 · 29⤊ 5⤋