A long time ago, Britain and France were at war.  During one battle, the French captured an English Major.  Taking the Major to their headquarters, the French General began to question him.  The French General asked, "Why do you English officers all wear red coats? Don't you know the red material makes you easier targets for us to shoot at?"

In his bland English way, the Major informed the general that the reason English officers wear red coats is so that if they are shot, the blood won't show and the men they are leading won't panic. And that is why, from that day until now, all French Army Officers wear brown pants.