As I've mentioned in previous threads, having patches on your pack are great "door openers", I met several Forum members this last Camino Portuguese and have had several pilgrims ask about the Forum. So it's a chance to meet face to face, or provide additional info to current, or folks that may still have questions about their next Camino.
Met a fantastic Irish lady who's walked the world over, with one exception being the Appalachian Trail in the USA. Seeing my AT badge, she mentioned she's considered it, but never took the plunge. We walked for about two hours that first morning. We would have talked longer, but I couldn't keep up! At the next albergue I was surprised to met her again, she'd fallen and severely injured her knee...torn open and rocks imbedded. Got that cleaned out and talked a bit more about the AT.
The Marine patch continues to provide a point of departure for robust conversation and still garners me a number of cervezas, or vinotintos, as appropriate.
Arn