[wterrell]

For the vast majority of people, there is little or no offense taken of the term 'Nazi'. The history and era are very worthy of study and very much may be gained from the lessons learned.
Nazi memorabilia is worthy of collecting, studying, preserving, and financial investment.

Now for the inevitable "However!". However, let's be real. Not everyone agrees. And those in disagreement are not without opinion, voice, and passion. Nor are they inactive.

The opponents of all symbols of National Socialism are not in front of us, and we cannot reason with them to persuade them to our fascination or conceit. We cannot entreat them to 'Come, let us reason together'. They are remote, silent, unresponsive, and observant.

And their suspicions will be affirmed! We are wise enough in regard to human nature to know that anything that is said to a man who is extremely fearful of insult, will be interpreted as insult. And the actions of all men will be seen as conspiracy by one who is paranoid. The intentions of every man will be good to an optimist. etc. etc.

This is also true of those who would see evil in all association with 'Nazi' symbols. We will be seen as neo-Nazi, no matter what our protestations. Our motives for discussion and collection will be looked upon as sinister. We will be looked upon with an evil eye.

So we will be watched, monitored, listed, and the subject of whisper. And all of our defensive protestations will be as so many barking dogs.

Lugers, gentlemen. That is our passion. Not Nazi banners, medals, uniforms, or party membership cards.