I hear your argument man, I just can't justify to myself the idea that the bag is some sort of trophy earned through hard work. It's a uniform, a utility uniform at that. There are lots of members of the military who work hard. By your logic, we should let all Navy Seals wear pajamas to work every day. They've earned it.
EDIT: in the end it doesn't really matter. There are a lot more important things to worry about than who wears their bag and why. But hey, what are internet forums for if not for bitching about stuff you would never get caught dead griping about in person.
to each his own