Leatherneck - Etymology

Etymology

Now accepted by Webster as a synonym for marine, the term "leatherneck" was derived from a leather stock once worn around the neck by both American and British marines—and soldiers also. Beginning in 1798, "one stock of black leather and clasp" was issued to each marine annually. The dress blue uniform still bears that stock collar today, while the service uniform's standing collar was changed to a rolled-flat type prior to World War II.

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