the sash in most military is just an ornamental equipment.
Reserved to be worn on functions and for people of certain
calibre.
Some awards are given in the form of sashes.
the 'lanyard' thing is commonly refered to as aiguillette. In
Singapore, it is an insignia used to distinguish officers holding
certain appointments. they include the CDF, ADCs, MA etc
[ information courtesy of book : Our Army, Customs and Traditions,
Apr 2006]
