[Dozer523]

Dens,
That your brother was an Alpha make the difference to the story.
Back in the 80's timeframe, the Honor Grad of the SFDOQC was awarded a folding Buck by a fraternal organization -- the American Legion, I think it was. In the olden days that was the practical knife of choice. (The impractical knife of choice was a Randal. Search key that and you'll find funny stories -- mostly about how easy they were to loose.) That it is "pristine" give credence to the award factor. They are such useful and sturdy knives; I can't think of any other reason NOT to use it. Mine is still going strong 30 years later.

Anyway, they came with a very strudy leather belt sheath. Any unit crest fit perfectly on the flap. The SF regimental crest was a little bit of a problem because the raised arrow snagged on stuff a lot and would get twisted and bent.

I don't remember anyone making a fuss about the knife being the goal. I would not have thought much of anyone who did. We had an Officer killed during Robin Sage and a few sustained career ending injuries.

Congratulations to your brother for having completed the course and for doing so well. In my class the Buck knife went to a guy who would command a Batalion in First Group.