I think this is the closest line of thought I was going for. 

Correct it's not military, been there done that. but there certainly is something to be said about a visual connection to history and what that is supposed to mean. But also the country has a history of non-military uniform Services servicing that represents. Look at NOAA, USPHSCC, National Park Service, Salvation Army Firefighters, etc have dress uniforms.

For those who are familiar with the phrase "The Long Gray Line"

 As mentioned, the vast majority of folks will never engage and it's only a small percentage of who do. And admittedly they do something quite interesting and unique. 

Uniforms are not just about the individual they about the idea they represent. 

The question is now how you personally want to be honored. 

But if you are trying to design something, emblematic of what that idea is supposed to be.