Top Coat Horror...

Lettraset kind of Stencils (rub-on) are a good alternative, but again they'll look brand new. You'll have to do your weathering and all after putting on the transfers (something you should do with decals too, however, the washes and drybrushing can make the carrier film appear, and therefore I would cut my decals as close as possible to the actual design).

A number of companies sell etched stencils sets that allow you to paint (preferably airbrush) numbers, stars, crosses,..). You might consider that a better alternative as it will be easier to get the worn look straight away.

I've posted pictures a couple of times here, but they need to be on the web somewhere first.

I though about it and I was considering adding some camo netting or leaves / plants to partially hide the front. (The area affected is mostly the front of the vehicle.)

I actually have been looking at some Eduard stencils (they cost $25AUD) and was wondering if they are a much better solution than decals. My biggest problem with decals is they look brand new when everything else is old! Which ones do you use?

I suppose I need to look for some photos of foliage laden vehicles...

BTW, being new to the forum I need to ask, are we allowed to post photos here?

This sort of things is why I do not like using varnishes and all that.... To avoid the need I usually paint my ID marks and other decorations/numbers. It takes a bit of practice, or stencils, but you can obtain a better look, using thinner paint to get worn, faded markings for instance...

If sanding the whole model does not tempt you, is there any way to relocate your model to a winter time, with white-wash all over that would cover the disaster area..?