Do you think that the various branches should have the same uniforms?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 10:46:17 -0400

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 10:49 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 10:49:32 -0400

I am OK with them having OCP's. I just wish we would put the rank back on the collar. No need to look at boobs to see what your rank is. Get you head up and walk straight

Response by LCpl Shane Couch made Mar 20 at 2018 10:51 AM

LCpl Shane Couch — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 10:51:14 -0400

No. Each branch has its different mission. Each mission has its own need for a different set of utilities/uniform.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Mar 20 at 2018 10:54 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 10:54:19 -0400

This may bring unity among the branches of the military.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 20 at 2018 10:57 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 10:57:09 -0400

I think the DoD, possibly through DLA, should provide guidance to reduce “uniform churn” we’ve seen in the Services in the last 20 years. The types of uniforms and their primary acceptable uses should be defined, and the Services and Unified Commands required to live within those limits.
-Service Uniform: Service specific “coat and tie” uniform, such as the Army Service Uniform. This uniform should be used for everyday duties. It should reflect the traditions of each Service while being comfortable and practical for office and ceremonial use. This uniform would be authorized for wear outside of the military installation or duty area for official functions and commuting.
-Work Uniform: A DoD-wide mandated uniform for duties frequently requiring the Service Member to work out of doors, or in a “dirty” environment, or performing duties likely to stain, damage, or otherwise ruin a Service Uniform. Maintenance, motor pool, supply, warehouse, transportation, IT maintenance, communications technicians, and many other skilled personnel would wear this uniform. Combat forces also would wear this uniform when training in garrison, maintaining weapons and equipment, and training in a non-threat environment in the field. Think of this as an updated version of the BDU. Black boots. Wear outside of military installations restricted to commuting or specific duties.
-Combat Uniform: Each Unified Command would determine the best uniform design for their AOR or Operation from a collection of DoD developed and approved patterns. Desert, jungle, woodland, urban, etc. These uniforms would be issued to Service Members according to Deployment Orders or when stationed in an OCONUS AOR. Unified Commands would specify the personnel required to wear the combat uniform in their AOR, all others would wear a Service, Work, or Specialized Uniform. Combat uniforms would be turned in when personnel redeploy to CONUS or another AOR. Serviceable uniforms would be recycled.
-Specialized Uniform: Special purpose uniforms designed to fill specific requirements. Flight suits and aircraft carrier deck uniforms are examples. These uniforms would be used exclusively for the purpose for which they are purchased. They will not be substituted for Service, Work, or Combat uniforms. Wear outside of the military installations restricted to commuting or specific duties.
-Each uniform type also should include uniform items needed for weather protection. Work and Combat uniforms should include a “field jacket”, parka, field cap, ear and face protection, etc. Combat uniforms may include foot ware of various colors and designs to fit the environment.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 11:10 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 11:10:35 -0400

We did for over 25 years, then Marines came out with MARPAT 2003, and that changed everything.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 11:12 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 11:12:27 -0400

The only ones that have any argument against it are the Navy and Coast Guard, but even they have people on the ground, hundreds or thousands of miles from the nearest ocean.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Mar 20 at 2018 11:17 AM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 11:17:13 -0400

The Air Force uses the Army OCP in certain locations because it’s the best uniform option available. Different environments require different uniform options.

The solution would be a deployed uniform that all services wear when deployed to specific locations. Otherwise, they should wear whatever the uniform of the day is for that branch.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 11:29 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 11:29:54 -0400

I know we are not Canada but Canada put their forces together in 1968 and now it's just called Canadian Forces and they all wear the same uniform they just have a beret that distinguishes the different branches.

Response by MSgt George Cater made Mar 20 at 2018 11:39 AM

MSgt George Cater — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 11:39:44 -0400

Sure, let’s all go with the best one - Marine Blues, Greens & cammies. Just as soon as everyone goes through Parris Island, San Diego or Quantico to earn the EGAs the go one them.
But seriously, NO, no way, no how. Go on up to Canada if you want that.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 11:46 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 11:46:44 -0400

No. I'm not privy to the reasons for the "push" to a generic uniform, but I suspect it's generally for reasons that have nothing to do with operations.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Mar 20 at 2018 11:50 AM

MSgt John McGowan — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 11:50:43 -0400

Let each service be separate. The AF would lose their playboy image, the Army and Marines would be wuspes. And the Navy to few buttons.I don't think we should get to unitified.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Mar 20 at 2018 12:04 PM

Sgt Kelli Mays — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 12:04:59 -0400

CPT Private RallyPoint Member NO!
I believe each branch is unique & different....therefore, each branch deserves to have their unique and different uniforms. Perhaps in a "wartime" situation while in country, uniforms can be the same, since majority of folks over there are there for combat and may be a good thing to share one unique uniform.

Edit

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Mar 20 at 2018 12:32 PM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 12:32:45 -0400

Of course not. I think that there are certain traditions that go along with certain uniforms.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Mar 20 at 2018 12:35 PM

LTC John Griscom — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 12:35:15 -0400

Each of the Services deserve to have their own distinctive uniforms as they define who they are and their part in the defense of our Nation.
Also depicts a good amount of each Services history.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 12:42 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 12:42:43 -0400

I would say have everyone use OCPs same as the Army and Air Force personnel do, but civilians will still confuse us if we all wear the same uniform.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 2:06 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 14:06:34 -0400

As I say every time this question comes up... We used to have the same uniforms. There was a single camouflage utility uniform worn by all branches up until the Marines decided in 2003 that they needed something different and that started all this insanity.

Let each branch keep their distinctive dress uniforms but the cammies should be based on location of operations, not on which branch of the service you are serving in.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Mar 20 at 2018 2:18 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 14:18:27 -0400

I say yes tot he utilities. We are in a joint environment and work alongside each other. The cost savings alone to the government over time would be phenomenal. If they do it, have the same utility uniform but have distinguishable service name tapes. Dress uniforms and ceremonial uniforms need to be unique though...that way each service keeps its identity.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 3:56 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 15:56:29 -0400

Thanks for all the feedback so far! My initial post was edited by mods to better fit community guidelines, but I was referring to operational uniforms being the same camouflage pattern. I definitely feel that all branches should have their distinctive Ceremonial and Dress uniforms to show the heraldry and history behind them, but the constant and meaningless change of operational uniforms and camouflage patterns has become mind-boggling...and for my officer colleagues, expensive as hell. My personal answer was “yes with slight variants.”

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 4:02 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 16:02:55 -0400

Absolutely not.

Response by SGT Rick Myers made Mar 20 at 2018 4:54 PM

SGT Rick Myers — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 16:54:44 -0400

Each branch should have their own individual uniforms. The Army needs to go back to soft caps. When they started handing out berets to everyone it took away lots of the pride and integrity and hard work from those whom had the fortitude to earn and and wear the maroon, green, and black beret.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 5:03 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 17:03:34 -0400

Each service has a distinctive uniform based on their own tradition. Are you ok with a coastie or zoomie wearing a Marine uniform?

Response by Jessica Adams made Mar 20 at 2018 5:28 PM

Jessica Adams — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 17:28:08 -0400

Each branch of the military serve a different purpose. Also with me having a son who's talked about the military since he was 5, different uniforms also help civilians distinguish what branch you're associated with. Say you're standing by a serviceman/woman and your kiddo says can thank that Army soldier for his/her service? Only for that person to hear this and be offended because their actually Marine. And yes the Marines I know get ticked if you say their in the Army. So yes different uniforms for different branches are great.

Response by Maj John Bell made Mar 20 at 2018 5:32 PM

Maj John Bell — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 17:32:21 -0400

Absolutely not. If nothing else the Army uniform turnover and Beret debates are great sources of amusement to Marines.

Response by PO1 Cassiopeia Goldenstein made Mar 20 at 2018 5:59 PM

PO1 Cassiopeia Goldenstein — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 17:59:53 -0400

No, but I would like to see more similarity in the shape and pattern, so while it's obvious were are in different branches, it is also obvious we serve the same country's Armed forces.

Response by Cpl Mark A. Morris made Mar 20 at 2018 6:11 PM

Cpl Mark A. Morris — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 18:11:41 -0400

With gender neutral PFT, why not? It no longer matters except in Special OPs.
The only real question is what color? I think PINK is in order!

Response by SSG Robert Webster made Mar 20 at 2018 7:37 PM

SSG Robert Webster — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 19:37:01 -0400

Field/combat uniforms - yes; Class A/Dress uniforms - no.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 8:00 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 20:00:06 -0400

Sure...Dress Blues and shower shoes, with a light coat of LSA.

Response by MSgt Walter Clack made Mar 20 at 2018 8:41 PM

MSgt Walter Clack — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 20:41:54 -0400

NO WAY!!!

Response by Lt Col Barry Sullins made Mar 20 at 2018 9:25 PM

Lt Col Barry Sullins — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 21:25:42 -0400

NO!

Response by A1C John Aronowitz made Mar 20 at 2018 9:37 PM

A1C John Aronowitz — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 21:37:27 -0400

field uniform yes. Better to cut expensed there then on equipment etc..

Response by LTJG Richard Bruce made Mar 20 at 2018 9:46 PM

LTJG Richard Bruce — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 21:46:03 -0400

Coast Guard wore khakis and dungarees for years, but the CG blue uniform showed the public who the real sailors are. Beside if the Army adopted the CG tropical blue uniform, the enemy will laugh their heads off with all the pasty white legs. Topsiders don't last long on rocky terrain. Air Force pilots would have a hard time picking up girls at the O-Club wearing the CG Sears repairman work uniform. Marines will have to start learning pool. CG actually used their pockets.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2018 11:08 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 23:08:37 -0400

Financially it make a lot of sense to have similar uniforms for Conus and similiar when sent overseas. A lot of funds are wasted with uniforms design, manufacturing, changes, etc.

Flipside, It would probably neg influence branch pride and distinction.

Interesting thread.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 20 at 2018 11:26 PM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 23:26:24 -0400

Yes, for combat uniforms, no for dress uniforms CPT Private RallyPoint Member

Response by PO3 Garry Reed made Mar 21 at 2018 3:04 AM

PO3 Garry Reed — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:04:24 -0400

I agree all combat and work uniforms should be the same. Were as each branch should have their own unique dress uniform. Would save a ton of money and allow for optimal uniform. For the environment the service member was deployed. No reason for every service to have a different work or combat uniform. Dress uniforms are were the distinction should be made. As this is were Tradition comes into play.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2018 9:09 AM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 09:09:47 -0400

Yes lets stop wasting money on so many different designs. When we had BDU's it worked fine and it didn't cost millions to design several ones.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2018 9:40 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 09:40:56 -0400

Yes the basic combat uniform should be the same for everyone that way when you are deployed then the same supply chain can support all services and does not need to worry about 4 different uniforms.

Response by PO2 Julian Coombes made Mar 21 at 2018 4:53 PM

PO2 Julian Coombes — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 16:53:46 -0400

No. Navy uniform is.best

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Mar 21 at 2018 5:13 PM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 17:13:56 -0400

McNamara had the same idea, and we all ended up in satines that really suited no one. Then we went through plain green jungle utilities in some sort of silky fabric, then camouflage with changes whenever the wind blew. Believe it or not, just because the Corps is an infantry based outfit, they are different and the uniforms are put through R&D to satisfy USMC desires. Since most are paid for by the individual (even the initial issue at boot camp) don't know that it would make that much difference in costs.

Response by SSgt Jack Gilbert made Mar 21 at 2018 6:18 PM

SSgt Jack Gilbert — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 18:18:04 -0400

I believe that the combat uniform could be standardized, with service-unique markings, but the dress/undress/working uniforms should remain unique to each branch. When I was in the Air Force (1974-80) we envied the dungarees worn by the Navy. Sailors and Coast Guardsman had the most comfortable working uniform of all! You should go back to them!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2018 10:53 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 22:53:58 -0400

The Marines changed ours in 2003 and besides the FROGS it hasn’t changed since. Maybe instead of mandating a DoD wide uniform policy, the individual services should pick a pattern and stick with it. Any changes after that would have to go through the DoD with Secretary approval. Lastly they need to put some common sense back into picking a pattern.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Mar 21 at 2018 11:13 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 23:13:32 -0400

No... I like the uniqueness of us all having our own identity. Let's face it... sometimes just imagining ourselves in a specific uniform is a selling point for some of us.

Response by PFC Megan Gillis made Mar 22 at 2018 12:01 AM

PFC Megan Gillis — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 00:01:40 -0400

Definitely note

Response by SSG William Wall made Mar 22 at 2018 3:00 PM

SSG William Wall — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 15:00:39 -0400

And how did I know the the USMC members here would be the loudest "NO!" chorus. Would any change their minds if dress/ceremonial uniforms were not part of the equation?

Response by Sharon Smith made Mar 22 at 2018 3:50 PM

Sharon Smith — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 15:50:38 -0400

Response by PO2 Dwayne Morton made Mar 25 at 2018 2:02 AM

PO2 Dwayne Morton — Sun, 25 Mar 2018 02:02:47 -0400

Shipboard uniforms should be adapted to the environment they serve in and be professional in appearance. We've only had over 200 years to get it right!

Response by Michael Garrett made Mar 25 at 2018 9:01 PM

Michael Garrett — Sun, 25 Mar 2018 21:01:15 -0400

Dress, no. Fatigues, yes. O D green, black boots.

Response by MSgt Alejandro Hernandez (RETIRED) made Mar 27 at 2018 3:24 PM

MSgt Alejandro Hernandez (RETIRED) — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 15:24:15 -0400

i asked my Col this question once. He said "Why are you asking me all these stupid questions Hernandez, Im trying to eat my pizza" (We were at the base bowling alley). He said "No". I responded "It will happen eventually". He laughed.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2018 7:37 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Apr 2018 19:37:20 -0400

Different services, different traditions, different missions, different uniforms.

Response by SGT Lee Jamison made Apr 1 at 2018 10:47 PM

SGT Lee Jamison — Sun, 01 Apr 2018 22:47:58 -0400

No. Aside from rank, which I don’t know the ranks of all branches, the uniform is what sets us apart from each other. This would get entirely too confusing for everyone. Yes we are a unified military as a while under DOD but we are separate and individual as our own. The only things I would change is to keep our pattern, OCP, but go back to the style of the BDU. Rank in your collar, patches sewn on everywhere, no Velcro, no huge shoulder pockets.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 3 at 2018 9:41 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 09:41:16 -0400

I really don't think multicam, etc. works well for the USAF or USN

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2018 10:47 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 10:47:49 -0400

I believe they’re slowly going that way with uniforms. The navy this year switched our traditionally blue uniforms for a green very similar to marines but a slightly lighter shade of green. I could get behind this concept for everything except dress uniforms which I think are traditional.

Response by SGT James Murphy made Apr 14 at 2018 1:24 PM

SGT James Murphy — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 13:24:20 -0400

Are Ya' Nuts? over 200 Years of History???

Response by Cpl Jeff Ruffing made Apr 22 at 2018 8:16 PM

Cpl Jeff Ruffing — Sun, 22 Apr 2018 20:16:33 -0400

Not even no but, Hell No. Look, I’ve been in 3 different branches of the service. The hardest was a Marine. I wear that uniform with pride because I earned it. Sorry it’s prettier and more impressive than the other uniforms out there. People need to stop being jealous of other branches for whatever reason they have. It’s like let’s turn all the branches into mashed potatoes so we all look the same and there is no difference. I think the Army in the way is the weakest. Let’s let everybody wear a beret ( cause we are jealous of the Green Berets and wish we could be one) and let’s let everyone wear jump boots if they want. Some of these questions really irritate me. People need to grow up. Wear what you’re issued, and if you want to wear something different either wait till you’re out of the service so you can lay bullshit on civilians who don’t know no better, or, here’s an idea... EARN IT

Response by Cpl Brian Ruby made Apr 25 at 2018 10:45 AM

Cpl Brian Ruby — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 10:45:18 -0400

Absolutely not! There is nothing sharper than a Marine in dress greens or blues. Hell, even the utilities are better looking.

Response by PO3 Peter Lothrop made Apr 26 at 2018 1:56 PM

PO3 Peter Lothrop — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 13:56:39 -0400

No As a matter of fact I hate the fact that the Navy changed their working uniform to that but ass ugly blue camo looking BDU style uniform. One of the things that make each branch of service different is the fact that your uniforms are different.

I served in both the U S Navy and the Air Force reserve and I will say this I hated those Air Force BDU working uniforms, they were heavy, hot and did not breath at all!! For anyone that has not worn the old Navy working uniform you have no way to compare the two uniforms so you probably will say the BDU are not all that bad.

The only reason I say this is because the working uniform I wore in the Navy was simply a plain blue shirt with basically blue jeans. Most of the time we took our uniform shirts off and just wore an undershirt to work in. Much more comfortable and better looking!

Response by PVT Mark Brown made Apr 28 at 2018 7:06 PM

PVT Mark Brown — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 19:06:10 -0400

I would not want to wear a Marine uniform and I am sure no Marine would care to be caught in an Army uniform. I missed the Green Class A's of the past.

Response by SPC Steven Nihipali made Apr 28 at 2018 8:34 PM

SPC Steven Nihipali — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 20:34:54 -0400

Damn... When every branch used bdu's, we knew what branch e served in, Obama comes along and now no one can figure out who's who wearing what uniform in what rank. Fucking hell. One military, one mission and that is to defeat those who wish to destroy us. Navy, USMC, CG, AF whoever... BDU Digital print was the best and everyone knows that. If you're too busy trying to figure out what branch, you need a life

Response by SFC James High made May 4 at 2018 9:31 AM

SFC James High — Fri, 04 May 2018 09:31:00 -0400

I think that all branches (including the Coast Guard) should wear the exact same Combat uniform. We used to during the days of the Woodland BDUs and everything was fine. SMs took pride in what they wore because for one thing they had to shine boots. This would encourage competition and camaraderie within units and even commands. However, I feel Strongly that each Service keep their specific Service and Dress uniforms.

Response by LT Robert Chrisman made May 7 at 2018 11:54 AM

LT Robert Chrisman — Mon, 07 May 2018 11:54:10 -0400

No; but medals, decorations, ribbons, etc. could be standardized. Cammies at sea are ludicrous.

Response by TSgt Tommy Amparano made May 10 at 2018 6:39 PM

TSgt Tommy Amparano — Thu, 10 May 2018 18:39:22 -0400

I have never really thought about this, but I don't really see anything wrong with it as far as ABU, ACU, NWU, BDU uniforms. One uniform to unite them all would not be a big deal to me. Service uniforms between branches should remain unique though.

Response by CPL Cheryl Bottass made May 13 at 2018 8:34 AM

CPL Cheryl Bottass — Sun, 13 May 2018 08:34:41 -0400

The Military branches have an identity , each all their own. That identity molds the Soldier into that ideal Soldier for that specific purpose. We all wear Old Glory and that’s the only thing we need to be a cohesive fighting unit, leave us our identities.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 6:28 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 18:28:55 -0400

I feel all combat fatigues should share the same camo patterns with each branch choosing their own material and uniform design type. (BDU, ACU, Coveralls, Bikinies)

Response by PO2 Michael Galey made May 24 at 2018 9:44 PM

PO2 Michael Galey — Thu, 24 May 2018 21:44:04 -0400

Canada has a single uniform and it can be confusing.

Response by PO2 John Chalus made May 25 at 2018 4:30 PM

PO2 John Chalus — Fri, 25 May 2018 16:30:30 -0400

It would save lot of money.

Response by SGT Frank Yarum made Jun 6 at 2018 4:16 PM

SGT Frank Yarum — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 16:16:51 -0400

The Marine Dress Uniform is (in this man's opinion) the best looking one of all the services. I think all of the services should have the same style dress uniform as the Marines, except the color, awards, patches and insignia should be different so the different services are easily recognized.

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2018 5:21 AM

CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 05:21:39 -0400

So I think the utility uniform should be the same like back with the BDU. The BDU was a great uniform with the summers and the winters. However, I think the dress uniforms should remain different and the Army needs to go back to the Class A because the feigned cavalry uniform is just bloody stupid.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2018 11:22 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 11:22:05 -0400

There are numerous arguments both for and against this idea. By each service having a separate uniform, it's easy to acknowledge the service cultures and languages at a distance. Additionally is promotes espirit de corps within each service. As well, it is hard to have a one size fits every environment camouflage and there are reasons outside of hiding in the environment why the services chose the colors they do.
On the other side, using one uniform reduces the logistical costs to the services and DLA, allows the SSA to reduce space and hand receipt issues among other concerns. These are some of the major points in why we have equipment compatibility (M16 family of rifles, HMMWVs, M1 tanks, and MREs). Even when there are differences in vehicles, there are common systems (Bushmaster cannon, 70mm rockets, fuel, etc).
From the logistics prospective, I think the single uniform makes the most sense in a deployed environment. However, there should be a means of quickly identifying the separate services to facilitate a means of knowing which 'language' to use. To this end, I also think the Army ought to bring back a method of identifying the branches as well for the same reason (e.g. the Canadians have a branch identifier on the name tape). This again helps with some language barriers since loggies, infantry, aviators, etc. all have shorthand, acronyms and languages that don't quickly translate to each other.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jul 1 at 2018 10:55 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Sun, 01 Jul 2018 22:55:02 -0400

A favorite subject of mine. ARMY and AIR FORCE should have the same style uniforms. And soon will have. The NAVY, MARINES and COAST GUARD need to use the MARINES style of uniform. But with different head gear. These uniforms are for in the field only. Dress uniforms should and must be different for ceremonies and parades, so the civilians can tell who is who.

Response by PO2 Steven Michaeli made Jul 7 at 2018 4:34 PM

PO2 Steven Michaeli — Sat, 07 Jul 2018 16:34:56 -0400

BDUs should be the same which would result in fewer friendly fire problems as was proven in WWII and I think all branches should have a “Sam Browne” style uniform in their own colors, but dress uniforms should be unique to the branch. Maybe even do like most of Europe and have “Regimental Dress” uniforms.

Response by CPO Michael Sordelet made Jul 10 at 2018 11:32 AM

CPO Michael Sordelet — Tue, 10 Jul 2018 11:32:45 -0400

The different services have different missions, the uniforms should reflect on and complement that mission, work, field ,or dress.

Response by CPO Wes Smith made Jul 10 at 2018 1:24 PM

CPO Wes Smith — Tue, 10 Jul 2018 13:24:59 -0400

Hell no. And the Navy should go back to the Cracker Jacks. The uniforms in my day were unique and you could tell who was what even at a distance.

Response by PO1 Charles Babcock made Jul 26 at 2018 1:07 AM

PO1 Charles Babcock — Thu, 26 Jul 2018 01:07:08 -0400

same uniform for all branches seems a "silly" idea from both a tactical standpoint and a pride in service standpoint. The Army and Marines (plus a few special warfare units) all need cammo. The air force has no need to "hide" from anyone in nearly all cases. the Navy (except spec ops people) WANT to be seen. the present blue cammo the navy has would make it grossly hard to find someone if they fell into the sea. Coast Guard has less reason than the Navy or Airforce to need to hide.

Response by SGT Phil Marnette made Aug 2 at 2018 6:23 PM

SGT Phil Marnette — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 18:23:14 -0400

Different uniforms define who we are and what we do. I believe that the PT test is still different from one service to the other and when they make all requirements the same then they should share a uniform.

Response by LCpl Dennis LeNard made Aug 4 at 2018 8:46 PM

LCpl Dennis LeNard — Sat, 04 Aug 2018 20:46:41 -0400

Cammies/utilities can be the same, we were fine sharing in the 80s and 90s. Sleeve rolls and covers/hats varied by service and worked fine with differentiation. Service/Dress uniforms should be different.

Response by Robert Leviton made Aug 16 at 2018 8:27 AM

Robert Leviton — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 08:27:11 -0400

Think about the cost savings to the taxpayers. Right now each branch does it's own r+d on uniforms, this could be consolidated in to one combined group. I could go on but I think y'all get the point.

Response by 1SG Richard Maliszewski made Aug 16 at 2018 12:03 PM

1SG Richard Maliszewski — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 12:03:29 -0400

No, uniforms add pride for each service.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2018 12:25 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 12:25:23 -0400

I think underwear must always remain an individual choice.

Response by Maj John Bell made Aug 16 at 2018 3:32 PM

Maj John Bell — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 15:32:31 -0400

If you want to destroy a nation's military at peace, take away its sense of tradition, its customs, and its courtesies.

“Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire.” - Gustav Mahler

Response by SSG James Bloodworth made Aug 17 at 2018 1:51 AM

SSG James Bloodworth — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 01:51:22 -0400

The various branches have different missions and even different standards. The only time their uniforms should look similar is if they are on the same mission such as a joint task Force.

Response by SMSgt Michael DeMatties made Aug 17 at 2018 8:56 PM

SMSgt Michael DeMatties — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 20:56:58 -0400

Absolutely NO.
Each service should have thier own uniform.
The Air Force should get rid of its current BDU's. This is just my opinion. I ALWAYS loved the comoflaged BDU'S with polished boots.
I also don't like the new top 3 cheverons. The old was the best.
Dont often comment. Just an old Airman.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2018 1:30 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 01:30:32 -0400

We should all be wearing the same uniform. We are 1 US military. The navy & coast guard different for ship based uniforms.

Response by Sgt Tony Spade made Sep 15 at 2018 8:23 AM

Sgt Tony Spade — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 08:23:03 -0400

No. Each branch has their specialty. I wouldn't want to ask a sailor if they had their tank ready for a ground assault.

Response by SPC William Szkromiuk made Sep 15 at 2018 2:03 PM

SPC William Szkromiuk — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 14:03:49 -0400

Ahhh Heck no!

Response by SPC Scott Domogalla made Sep 26 at 2018 9:32 AM

SPC Scott Domogalla — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 09:32:11 -0400

Each branch of the military is unique. They are each proud of their branch, hence the rivalry. Trying to make them all look the same, I believe would be counter productive in confidence and pride. Making all the uniforms the same, to me, is like everybody gets a participation ribbon.

Response by SSG Michael Williams made Oct 7 at 2018 2:07 PM

SSG Michael Williams — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 14:07:58 -0400

No way.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Oct 21 at 2018 8:58 PM

PVT Mark Zehner — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 20:58:33 -0400

Would save money but hmmm

Response by SGT Gregory Tibbs made Oct 22 at 2018 8:27 PM

SGT Gregory Tibbs — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 20:27:34 -0400

Uniforms should be different for each branch of service.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Oct 24 at 2018 2:58 PM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:58:41 -0400

What...and all of us where Marine uniforms? I think not. I want so bad to say it's a stupid question, but seeing how our far left our education system has gone, it's a logical liberal step toward homogenizing the services...removing pride...removing tradition...removing esprit-de-corps.... all of us in grey jumpsuits saying 'Aye Comrade'.

Response by TSgt Carl Johnson made Oct 29 at 2018 4:07 AM

TSgt Carl Johnson — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 04:07:12 -0400

Each branch should have its own distinctive Service Dress and Mess Dress uniforms. It is traditional, and contributes to esprit de corps. It makes sense, tactically and logistically, for the various branches to use the same combat uniforms. I also believe that there should be a utility uniform, similar to the fatigues worn in the 70's and 80's, for everyday work wear for those in occupational specialties such as vehicle or aircraft maintenance, IT, heavy equipment operators, etc. There is no need to be tactical in day to day operations, especially stateside, in those fields, and those uniforms could be made more economically, therefore easier to replace when they are inevitably ruined.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2018 11:51 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 Oct 2018 11:51:44 -0400

We are not the same per occupations, so why share a same duty uniform? They are already similar in material design, just vary with color and print. I don't want to have to wait until someone is within 6 paces of me before I can tell by their branch tape where they work (I work on a joint base).

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2018 3:20 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 03:20:15 -0500

I agree with all that individual service branches should maintain their unique dress uniforms. I like the idea of universal field/work and combat uniforms because of the cost savings, but have a couple of concerns. First, with the Army being the largest branch, it seems to me that should they want to make a change, which they have been known to do frequently, that would force the other branches to do so also. And I know everyone will say let DOD have final say on any requested changes, but if the Army really wanted push for a change, they do have more influence than the other branches. A lot more than say if the Marines or Air Force would. Marines because of their size and Air Force because of the uniqueness of their mission. Secondly, if cost was a consideration for combat uniforms, I would think standardization of weapons and platforms would be a greater savings. I would like to hear comments on that statement. And last, consider that some branches don't even have standardization within their own service and you can see how this could be manipulated within each branch. My Dad and Uncles fought in WWII and the Army and Marines had the same battle uniforms. However, the Navy and Army Air Corps had quiet different uniforms. I really can't believe there is a one size fits all in this instance.

Response by Cpl Geoff Smith made Nov 25 at 2018 1:06 PM

Cpl Geoff Smith — Sun, 25 Nov 2018 13:06:02 -0500

Most of Navy & Air Force have no need for camaflage utilities, and Army and Marine Corps missions are different plus pride of service should enter into it. A Soldier doesn't want to loock like a Marine and vice versa.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jan 20 at 2019 5:02 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 17:02:06 -0500

For utility uniforms, fine they should be especially with more and more joint service operations. For Navy and Coast Guard however aboard ships a utility uniform proper for sea service duties. One service Uniforms a great big " NO " each should keep their identity. All may be My brothers and sisters but all of us take pride in our individual branches as We should. I don't want to be a Marine, soldier or sailor and more than they would want to be Air Force but the team and pride We have in our branches should NEVER be taken away. The traditions and History of the different branches of service is shown in the service uniforms as well as formal or ceremonial uniforms and that should never be changed and each service should stand out with their own identifiable, distinct uniform.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2020 9:19 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 21:19:42 -0400

Yeah the other branches can wear my uniform when they go to Parris island or sandeago