Anyone who picks up a rifle and stands to post is a soldier, regardless of the branch of military they serve under. FWIW, Marines ARE often referred to as soldiers.
I agree. It is an honorable name for an honorable profession and calling. Word smithing and nitpicking is superfluous.
I don’t refer to margarine as ‘butter’ either.
Only by those ignorant of the difference.
Marines ARE often referred to as soldiers
Yes, we are. But we are quick to point out that we are NOT Soldiers. We are Marines! There is a big difference!