On a similar point - UK veterans wouldn't normally wear Awards and Decorations, or Miniatures outside a military event. On recognised national occasions such as a state funeral or wedding, Remembrance day service or parade, or a similarly significant event, medals are widely worn. Also, direct next-of-kin may wear the late owner's medals at such occasions where they are representing that late relative but the medals would be worn on the right side, not the left.
For serving members medal ribbon bars are worn on formal dress, the medals themselves only when stated by the relevant event's admin instruction.
To see a UK vet flashing the tin on board ship would make me wince.
Yes - I can be this boring!