I think it is a solid categorization, though a bit complex it hits all the points. Maybe revise the original for higher end items and have a more basic one for regular more “attainable” items (if you have the time at least 😉). You did a great job summing it and yo and was glad to come upon this thread.

You're welcome.  I agree, a great history and story to go along with the cap.  

The standard officer's cap device was typically made of brass with a silver colored finish.  The "clouds and lightning" motif on the visor is made of silver bullion wire. 

Here is one topic on the forum for the shotgun pouches. The last page shows a Rubon made pouch   https://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/13593-lets-see-your-us-shotgun-shell-ammunition-pouches/

RUBON KC (Kansas CIty)    They also made Carbine pouches during WW2    The thread looks a bit thin for the sewing. Maybe its just the light or photo  

Hopefully I'm not hijacking the op's post.  Steve I don't know what it is about the gator Navy but my dad felt as you do.  When he enlisted he wanted to be on a capitol ship. He ended up on an LCI and when he left it after the war was over in Europe he ended up on an aircraft carrier in the Pacific. He talked about missing the life on the LCI. He said it was a great life.

Noted; I tend to agree. I think I will rework and drop it to three tiers and “everything else”. Once I get some more comments (if any) I’ll rework it. 

yellowhammerr this Three Part Topic will give a worth of views of the all insignia of fatigues from the 1950s to the early 1980s. Here also you will get to see the virtually endless styles of chest tapes used.        

Can I ask if this is : WW2 era or Vietnam era manufacture? Or a reproduction? The stamp is hard to read - *uson K C *?

I ended up buying it for $150. It was such a beautiful cap and such a compelling story. Great to have the James Locke mailing box and the provenance. I dont think buyers appreciate a cap with a named history. Also a nice Bancroft cap in great condition. Is the Insignia silver?