Hi Jeff,
Yes and no in my reckoning. No, on a good number of regulation swords but I would think unavoidable as add ons in period military use. The sabre I attached (again in my reckoning) the is either a British or Scottish yeoman cavalry officer's everday (as it were) sword. Strict regulation even there does not apply in that instance. As possibly American (where did I put those name notes) a militia officer would still be able to order what he pleased. That sword in hand might make me a happy camper in further research of it.
The American militia acts and regulations only require a sword. American military regulation regarding officers swords was widely disregarded, as they were also private purchase. That went on through to the second half of the 19th century. Right off the bat, the castings for the pre ACW American militia swords share the cross on the guard.
Jim's thoughts reflected in the other thread does see the use of those talismanic and cabalistic symbologies on blue and gilt blades but wanes greatly by the advent of etchings. Then little seen on such blade decoration for the American military and militia swords excepting presentation swords. With fire gilding still available from German makers, maybe they really hold a good many of the keys.
Military heraldry would be another avenue for easy association. Take a look at later American 19th century and 20th century quartermaster uniform pins and hat badges
Add to that the seal quite prominent on military swords to this date. I must confess though that the Birmingham cutlers and engravers had very little to go on when casting eagle pommels and engraving blades for the American market. There is another note that Mowbray himself did pages on a splendid richly gilded and decorated sword belonging to a Scotsman (my books are stacked (yes much like Jim's I think) Nope, covered them. Two scabbards, one dressed and embellished in the finest Jim might imagine (or remember) and another plain leather job. A very fine looking Birmingham eagle.
Mowbray also a lots of information regarding decoration for the American market regarding the great seal and eagle art. One need really look no further than the Rothchilds and symbology. In that sense, yes, one could clearly say a great many military swords and accoutrements have Masonic affiliation. Another ancient pyramid reality, or realizing as the case may be.
Cheers
Hotspur;
Snake and horsehead hilts are other ancillary passions and wonder