Kelida, you might try this one for laughs, though I have it on good authority that it's not true. WONDERFUL SHOES

Seriously, there was a period in my life (fortunately fairly long ago) when I was often guilty of acting like your Marine friend, and I'm not proud of it. I wish I could send apologies back through time... I am sorry you had to (have to) put up with crap like that, but I think it's always been there and probably always will. Just keep your sense of humor, and your self-esteem, and your eye on the door.

Aloha,
Mark