Meh.....I would never do it, but some civilians adorn their jackets with patches as a tribute. If the patch is something that signifies an accomplishment or milestone, I would agree with you. I still have my dad’s squadron patches and various items. I would consider sewing one of his “phantom” patches on my flight bag because the F-4 is an awesome plane and I love it (but I certainly never flew one) I would never wear one of his ribbons or sew his “400 carrier landings” patch on, because I didn’t earn it. In my mind, there’s a difference. Not trying to start a mil versus civ argument, but “thinking military stuff is cool” isn’t the same as “stolen valor”. Not to say that it’s not tacky to sport patches you had no involvement with, for sure.