a) do the thing up at the front properly (yeah, I know, it usually bursts open when you start running)
b) swing it to the side and snap it to the side adjuster popper
c) more authentically cut it off (yup, I can't bear to do it either)
d) fold it up inside and attach it with a safety pin (or something similar, I'm not convinced a safety pin is 'safe' at all on the battle fields)
I've done "d" but put a couple of stitches on instead of a safety pin.
I've tried all the other methods and this one seems to work the best.
Yup... I tried B... it works but does occasionally still come undone.
I also nearly ripped the tab off...
Sewing it on won't ruin the smock.
Just use a couple of really tiny stitches.
i bought a few sew on presstuds and put it up on the inside. ( an arnhem vet i know says they tucked them in the back pockets of the BD trousers)