MOLLE PALS system illustrates US civil-military divide (warontherocks.com)

• PALS webbing standard allowed decentralized innovation in military gear, similar to USB for computers.
• Civilian brands like GORUCK popularized 'tactical' as a premium identity, distinct from traditional surplus.
• The widespread civilian use of PALS-equipped gear reflects admiration for but social distance from the US military.

"The MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment) system and its PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System) webbing, developed by the US Army in the 1990s, enabled modular customization of soldier gear. This innovation reflected the shift toward individualized service in the all-volunteer force. After 9/11, PALS became a visual shorthand for tactical identity and was adopted by civilian brands like GORUCK, symbolizing a society that admires but remains distant from military service."