When I first enlisted, my first ship still had the sized caps, rather than the adjustable ones. They were a wool flannel or something like that. My next ship had the adjustable that felt like plastic. I never liked ball caps so much. 

Your Gerber Mark II was made in 1980.  Interestingly, Gerber introduced 440 stainless steel blades in 1979, but had not exhausted their 1095 carbon tool steel blades until late 1981.  Beginning in 1982, all survival knives made by Gerber had 440 stainless steel blades, unless you specifically asked for 1095 carbon tool steel.  Between 1979 and late 1981, Gerber randomly used both steels for the Mark II, and did not mark the knife to let you know what steel was used.  After 1982, the serial number system changed and all 440 stainless steel blades serial numbers ended with the letter "S".  If you special ordered a knife with the 1095 carbon tool steel blade, the serial number ended with the letter "T".  So, your knife could have either blade steel.  There are methods to safely check if you do not know how and are interested.  

The RIA "stamp"  looks rather large, what are the dimensions of it? I can't think of any item with a RIA stamp that large. Just a thought.  The US looks large also, compared to say a M-1916 holster stamp.  The size of each "stamp" may help identify these items. Are there any identifying marks or numbers on the sides at all? Thanks.     Steve 

Thanks Yokota. When I searched this unit all I found was WWII reference,  but I knew it had to be from around the 50's to 60s.   Was this unit still around in the 1950s or is a after war vet lighter? Thanks much

many thanks yes....i have with zero results i suspect it is LATIN AMERICAN military thanks for looking

I think it has value, even as an 80s novelty patch.   I would buy one of those if I saw it out.

I found General Stevens. I just couldn't believe that I acquired a part of his uniform.

Vintage,   Thank you for the insight and explanation.  Makes sense as I know that was active in reunions and probably picked it up there.  I am going to assume that it does not have any collector value or interest.  Thank you again for your assistance.   OD  

I wonder (because I don't know), is it possible that he was in the regular U.S. Navy and afterwards was in the Coast Guard.  Anyone?   The Coast Guard falls under the Navy during wartime, many, many Navy ships were 

I remember after 911 the Coast Guard did away with all unit ball caps, making us wear the standard Coast Guard ball cap which was a poorly designed ugly generic ball cap. It was a sign that the good times were ending and the beginning of the New World order was at hand, retirement day was the best day of my life.