In getting a new dress uniform to wear to a funeral, should I buy the uniform I had when I ETS'd or should I wear the new ASU?

SPC Morgan Benton — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 13:37:48 -0400

My father is a retired CW4, and is getting up there in years. I'm at the point in my life where I'm unable to ignore that, sooner rather than later, I will have to bury my father. His wishes will be for a military burial, which is something my family will happily accommodate, and for my part as an honorably discharged E-4 I plan to attend in dress uniform.

I'm familiar with the basics: Keep in regs, wear it as you would were you still active duty, present yourself with dignity, etc...

But regrettably, as happens to many post-military, I can't fit in my old Class A uniform anymore, at least not well enough to present the professional appearance that I would like, so I plan to update my closet with a properly fitted and tailored dress uniform for appropriate occasions, particularly the funerals I know I will be attending in the future.

My question is this: In getting a new dress uniform, am I supposed to stick with the green Class A uniform that I had when I ETS'd (2011), or am I supposed to wear one of the new Army Service Uniforms that are currently worn?

I don't mind the Class A, I just want to know if there's an etiquette to be followed. Is it polite to wear what you had while you were in? Are you expected to update with the times? Do you HAVE to wear the uniform from your service period? Is it your choice?

Most resources relating to vets wearing their dress uniforms simply cover when and where it is appropriate, not what to do if you're looking to update or replace your old or ill-fitting ones.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Response by CPT Andrew Wright made Mar 25 at 2019 1:44 PM

CPT Andrew Wright — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 13:44:53 -0400

Upgrade to the new Army Service Uniform. If you live near an Army base you might be able to pick one up at a reasonable price from a Surplus store. Wait too long and the Army will be going to a new uniform and all of is will have to start all over!

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Mar 25 at 2019 4:48 PM

CSM Richard StCyr — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 16:48:50 -0400

If you are an Army veteran you can wear either the uniform you wore at the end of your service or the current uniform as worn by active duty Soldiers, per AR 670-1. So you can set him up either way or you yourself can wear your uniform.
You can't mix either components or the configuration if there have been changes either one is to be worn in the manner prescribed for that period. The Blue uniform and the current ASU are a good example. Both are blue but you can wear different things on the new ASU that you can't on the old Blues.
You can google the AR and DA Pam 670-1 to see the current policies and guidelines.

Response by 1SG Michael Brooks made Mar 25 at 2019 8:17 PM

1SG Michael Brooks — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 20:17:54 -0400

I just updated my ASU uniform by checking the officer wives thrift stores in my area. I was able to find Blue Jacket for $20 and Pants for $15 at Fort Lee and Fort Eustis. The thrift stores all have facebook pages Just search Fort XXX Thrift Store and you will find.

And if you are on a post you may run into the clothing and sales store to pick up the accessories you may need. make a list, have cash so if they won't let you buy....ask another patron to help you out.

Response by 1LT Peter Duston made May 16 at 2019 7:56 PM

1LT Peter Duston — Thu, 16 May 2019 19:56:33 -0400

As a USAF Honor Guard bugler, I wear a current blue Army ASU as I am retired Army. At last weeks funeral,the retired LTC in charge of Legion Honor Guard was wearing his greens, other members were also in greens or a Legion uniform. All looked respectable.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 14 at 2019 7:40 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 14 Jul 2019 19:40:59 -0400

Take the time to say thank you for being a wonderful father.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made May 29 at 2023 6:21 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Mon, 29 May 2023 06:21:44 -0400

Wear either, or, your decision.