"I've never thought "nobless oblige" had a bad connotation". It doesn't & the explanation below hit the nail on the head. Jimmy Buffett often uses this phrase. He is very charitable as are ParrotHeads, of which I am one & work on many charities to help those less fortunate, primarily special olympics & make a wish foundation =) I translate it as meaning something similar to what the Bible says: "To whom much is given, much will be expected." If you've been blessed with more than average wealth, brains, physical prowress, etc., you are expected to not squander your gifts. If anyone here would care to make a donation to the special olympics I will be taking the Polar Plunge in February for this cause!
[More Info here] Thank you for the time & God Bless!
I enjoyed reading your profile page. My personal favorite version of 'Green Berets' is by the Texas A&M University band (of which there is NO comparison, IMHO!). You can download it and listen to it (and other Aggie band favorites) at:
http://www.aggieband.org/music.php Good luck on the Polar Plunge! What a terrific contribution you will be making for a wonderful cause!