Should the DoD ban the wear of all camouflaged uniforms off of military installations unless there are special circumstances?

2017-07-31T10:00:46-04:00

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2017 10:12 AM

2017-07-31T10:12:39-04:00

Why??

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Jul 31 at 2017 10:13 AM

2017-07-31T10:13:12-04:00

Keep the fatigues on-base. When you are in public, Class A Uniform.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2017 10:14 AM

2017-07-31T10:14:13-04:00

That would certainly be one way to figure out who is a poser or not. But, I would have to say no.

Response by MSgt Marshall Schiller made Jul 31 at 2017 10:15 AM

2017-07-31T10:15:24-04:00

Absolutely. Camouflaged uniforms are for field use, not to represent your service affiliation out in the ville!

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jul 31 at 2017 10:25 AM

2017-07-31T10:25:44-04:00

The Marines will say yes, as that has been the general policy for years.
The Army will say why or no, as that has been allowed for many years.
I will simply ask what problem are you attempting to solve?
not the perception of a problem, but an actual issue that needs a solution.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2017 10:32 AM

2017-07-31T10:32:00-04:00

Why? Security, public image, possible confusion or conflicts with LEO's, the GWOP (Global War on Posers) what? We were accustomed to it around USMC bases but that's a small slice of the overall community. People still abused it and got their butts chewed when caught. A few sporting ear rings in civies at the mall had them jerked out by hard-core Senior Enlisted over the years also. Then they started making exceptions i.e. drive through at bank, quick stop for needed staple items etc. This just gave more wiggle room for offenders, because eventually a quick beer at local pub became a needed staple. I don't know what the policy is now because I've been out almost 20 years. Many units had Service Charlie Friday's or daily for office types and that made it easier to plan off-base appointments in the community. There are so many other classes of AD, Reserve, Guard for other services and they all have different rules. In the interest of the learning curve and adaptation factor, I'd have to again ask for what reason. You're a Recruiter so you are sporting Blues at every opportunity anyway. Valid question but is it a problem and if so how? Cost vs. benefit?

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Jul 31 at 2017 11:25 AM

2017-07-31T11:25:27-04:00

The cost alone of limiting camouflage uniforms use should be enough to dispel the idea. Camouflage is wash and wear, at least in the AF, the more formal uniforms are not. Camouflage is a simple and cheap solution the different issues. Wearing it for all occasions makes economic sense.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2017 11:40 AM

2017-07-31T11:40:55-04:00

It has already been asked but bears repeating, why? What is it about the camouflage uniform that makes it inappropriate?

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2017 11:52 AM

2017-07-31T11:52:41-04:00

Yes. Utility/Camouflaged uniforms are for on base or in the field. That is the way it was when I served, 1968-1972, and that is the way it should be today.

Response by Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin made Jul 31 at 2017 12:04 PM

2017-07-31T12:04:21-04:00

The Air Force's ABU is an operational uniform, much like the pilot's flight suit. Even state side our Airmen have operational and support duties which require the wear of the ABU. Do you expect Airmen to wear their blues while maintaining an airplane? There are several duties which range from cyber to Security Forces which make no sense for blues.

As for off base, I don't see a problem with them wearing the uniform they go to work with. I never really understood the Marines policy not to wear theirs off base. Seems to me they waste time coming to work and then changing into uniform (with the exception of those who go straight to work from PT), and then change again before going home. From a recruiting perspective, I think allowing the public to see all the variations works well.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Jul 31 at 2017 3:58 PM

2017-07-31T15:58:37-04:00

I was a strict no-no during my service

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jul 31 at 2017 5:50 PM

2017-07-31T17:50:30-04:00

Dude seriously, what is it with you and these questions. It's almost like you hate yourself for being in the Marines.

Response by Mike Lynch made Jul 31 at 2017 7:24 PM

2017-07-31T19:24:32-04:00

Yes.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2017 7:30 PM

2017-07-31T19:30:08-04:00

I work a "desk" but if I have to switch into maintenance mode and jump into the subfloor, go swapping equipment, or just pulling weeds then all are well suited to ACUs. I have seen navy and marines with dress uniform days for espritdecorps, and that seems reasonable enough. ACUs out on the town for a beer? (as mentioned before) No way! I also understand the drycleaning costs. Ouch. Just my two cents, but if the boss says jump, it isn't my place to say no or ask why.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2017 7:42 PM

2017-07-31T19:42:11-04:00

As much as SM's hate frivolous policies and inventing new problems to fix...

We really are our own worst enemy.

Response by Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin made Jul 31 at 2017 9:35 PM

2017-07-31T21:35:17-04:00

This conversation reminds me of the restrictions in some locations in Afghanistan/Iraq to wear the combat shirts anywhere besides when you're wearing it with your kit and/or under your blouse. It's a perfectly good shirt, it has our rank, and I gotta believe it's considered professional (otherwise, why bother having it at all?). It was beyond me how some of the DFACs had the "uniform patrols" on watch for those daring to wear the combat shirt despite the incredibly hot weather.

Seems to me whenever we have something considered "cool" or even practical, someone else feels they have to ban it (combat shirts, flight suits, flight jackets, boonie hats, and then some). What is it with that?

Response by Cpl Thomas Kifer made Jul 31 at 2017 9:54 PM

2017-07-31T21:54:29-04:00

When I was in the Marines, 1980-86, wearing canoes off base was strictly forbidden. Unless you lived off base. And then just to base and home, with no detours.

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Jul 31 at 2017 11:23 PM

2017-07-31T23:23:00-04:00

I always considered our fatigues (in my day) our working clothes and of course regs were different then ,you only left the base in "civvies" or the dress uniform,I understand the Country is now involved in constant wars in the Mideast so the wearing of battle dress is an option for many.

Response by LTC Lewis Cox made Aug 1 at 2017 12:02 AM

2017-08-01T00:02:21-04:00

If Civilians see us in our dirty working clothes will they be upset or happy they are seeing their Tax dollars at work!!!

Response by SSgt Michael Bailey made Aug 1 at 2017 1:20 AM

2017-08-01T01:20:22-04:00

Absofreakinklutly. Utilities are just that, Utilities. When I was a Marine on recruiting duty and was given the "go" to wear cammies in town, I was very uncomfortable. Camouflage Utilities are a work uniform. For Marines that live off-base, I have never seen a Marine shop that doesn't provide a wallocker to all off-base Marines, regardless of rank, to change into civilian clothes. It's not like it takes more than 60 seconds for a Marine to go from cammies to civies. Geesh!

Response by SA Michael Moore made Aug 1 at 2017 2:11 AM

2017-08-01T02:11:41-04:00

When I enlisted in the Navy in 1958, it was common to see men in Service Dress Uniform on the street, while traveling etc. We never saw "fatigues" or BDU's off base. Later, as a Midshipman, we always wore service dress blues, khakis or whites and never fatigues off base. It seems to me like the only reason to go to where we are today is that it is just easier. That is a shame. I was always proud of my uniform and worked hard to be sharp. I spend a good bit of time in different bases around the world in my business and the two piece coveralls or worse the jumpsuits look pretty cheap and sleazy compared to a service dress uniform in my opinion.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2017 7:10 AM

2017-08-01T07:10:43-04:00

The only time I ever wear my OCP off post is on the way home.

Response by Sgt Brendan Bigney made Aug 1 at 2017 10:05 AM

2017-08-01T10:05:36-04:00

Cammies are for war. You're either training or fighting, none of which is done out in town.

Secondly, this sets a bad precedence for the DoD to start micromanaging the branches when they have bigger fish to fry. It's Pandora's Box. Have enough trust in the branches to do what they know to be best for their situation.

Response by LTC Marc King made Aug 2 at 2017 12:55 PM

2017-08-02T12:55:17-04:00

That used to be the policy as other have noted in their posts. It changed after 9/11, Afghanistan and Iraq. The DoD leadership felt that if we were going to be at war the American public should see that our warriors were visible... airplanes, public spaces etc. essentially let the public know we were in fact at war. During Viet Nam most commercial travel was ordered to be done in either civilian cloths or Class A uniform. I made many TDY trips in civvies, carrying my uniform and boots in luggage and making a quick change when arriving on post!

Response by CPO Glenn Moss made Aug 3 at 2017 1:27 AM

2017-08-03T01:27:13-04:00

OK, third time around on this question...I guess I'll post my views.

Working uniforms have changed quite a bit since my days in the Navy (1985 to 2005). Yep, I wore dungarees. And I remember when they were strictly forbidden off base.

But the working uniforms now, especially for the Navy, have undergone a radical change. Camouflage uniforms are well built, wear well, do not show dirt nearly as much as the older traditional Navy working uniforms, AND (this is important here), they're of a style/appearance that the public already closely associates with the military.

These uniforms aren't grease stained garage clothes.

And the public sees these uniforms all the time in various settings. TV shows, movies, ads, posters, etc. They're already part of an image that the public positively associates with the military.

They're SHARP. They're DISTINCT. They're PROFESSIONAL.

What's not to like about wearing them in public, other than maybe a traditional sense of prohibition against wearing the working uniform in public?

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2017 8:59 PM

2017-08-03T20:59:06-04:00

No I earned the right to wear my uniform

Response by SPC James Anderson made Aug 7 at 2017 6:18 PM

2017-08-07T18:18:35-04:00

I've never figured out this issue, are we trying to hide who we are? Any civilian within 50 miles of a military post can pick you out in seconds, are we trying to prevent triggering some type of reaction from snow flakes? Again, anyone can pick you out if your in uniform or not and make a scene. Do they look unprofessional? Well maybe these days, but if we dumped the pajamas and shit sand boots and return to pressed bdu's and shined boots it would go a long way to looking more professional. People live off post, thousands of them. I was on post mon-fri 6 am to 4:30 pm normally if not longer. If i need to stop for some groceries or fuel i shouldn't need to change.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2017 6:26 PM

2017-08-07T18:26:13-04:00

I'm in a joint unit and I work with Marines. I find it odd that they can't wear their MARPATS off the installation. I don't necessarily want to wear my ACU out in town just to hang out. But, if it's lunch time and I want to eat off the installation, I don't see the big deal. If I need to pick up items on the "honey do" list on my way home, I fail to see how my ACU looks "unprofessional." It reminds me of a stupid policy at Fort Gordon. There, you weren't allowed to wear your PT uniform in the Shoppette, PX, or other places that weren't designated for PT or medical. The stated reason was that it didn't look "professional." So, I could wear a pair of basketball shorts, tennis shoes, and a T-shirt to the gym. I could work out and get all sweaty. Then I could hit the shoppette for something to drink on my way home. But, do those same activities while wearing a gray T-shirt and black shorts with the word "ARMY" on them and it was a No-Go. I swear I think there are some people who have only one job and that's to sit around and come up with the most asinine regulations and policies possible.

Response by SrA Paul Pfeil made Aug 7 at 2017 6:35 PM

2017-08-07T18:35:30-04:00

What for? No that is stupid.

Response by PO1 Edward Pate made Aug 7 at 2017 6:40 PM

2017-08-07T18:40:46-04:00

There should be no wearing of combat or working uniforms off base. We should be trying to present a great image off base and that is not the way to do it. I was in from 80-86 and remember traveling home for the holidays wearing my Navy winter blues and always thought it was a great military PR to see all my comrades of arms looking sharp from all services in airports as I traveled!

Response by CPT Randy Zales made Aug 7 at 2017 7:13 PM

2017-08-07T19:13:17-04:00

In garrison, this is ridiculous and impractical. Wear according to unit or mission policy and use common sense.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2017 7:28 PM

2017-08-07T19:28:26-04:00

It is just another hassle.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2017 8:33 PM

2017-08-07T20:33:27-04:00

So a recruiter should wear class A/B uniform every day? Should a service member going to a college class after the duty day (or on an early release) have to change before class? What about meeting your spouse off post for lunch one day?

My point being is that this is basically a non-issue. By raising this question you are solving no problem, helping no service member, and potentially causing more issues if some good idea fairy picks this up.

We are members of the Military. We are currently engaged in multiple conflicts around the world. Civilians sometimes forget that, and the occasional SM in camo can remind them of that fact. Not only that, but each service is more easily distinguished by their camo pattern. While in Class Bs I've been asked if I was in the Navy or Airforce!

Dress uniform is just that, for formal/professional attire. And by professional I mean working in D.C. or having meetings in a civilian setting.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2017 10:30 PM

2017-08-07T22:30:05-04:00

Lol, this is an issue at all in the military? it's good to see that people are thinking of solutions to very inportant issues *sarcasm*

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2017 10:56 PM

2017-08-07T22:56:28-04:00

Living off post I've hit up walmart on the way home in uniform. What irritates me is when Youre at a restaurant at 1900 or later and dudes are Are still wearing it. they're usually the ones interrupting dinner being obnoxious. They also don't realize they're made fun of the entire time by everyone in there.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Aug 7 at 2017 11:34 PM

2017-08-07T23:34:25-04:00

Yes! Wear the combat uniform for combat. Wear a work or specialized uniform for non-combat dirty jobs. Both of these uniforms worn only while on duty and to and from work. Combatant Commanders set rules in their AOR. Everybody else wears service uniform. Exceptions for special circumstances by local commanders. Basically back to pre-9/11 rules

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2017 1:14 AM

2017-08-08T01:14:46-04:00

I never see anyone shooting at enemies off base or doing any work aside from recruiting, so while they're convenient if you're just getting off work or going to lunch, no, I don't think cammies are appropriate for off-base wear.

Response by PFC Cedric Powell made Aug 8 at 2017 1:34 AM

2017-08-08T01:34:22-04:00

No. You have soldiers that live in off post housing. Furthermore, what if the grocery store is on the way home? Could an order be placed that you have to be out of uniform after "duty hours"? Oh absolutely so. Would I see it happening, more than likely not. So no, there shouldn't be a policy in place or any changes.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2017 12:44 PM

2017-08-08T12:44:23-04:00

Who cares? Unless it has been proven to be an issue, it's not an issue. That is why younger Soldiers prefer to get out. Too many non issues get forced to be an issue. Remember the beret? Yeah, no reason for that.

Response by SSG Joseph McCarry made Aug 8 at 2017 4:00 PM

2017-08-08T16:00:08-04:00

This has been debated for years, even before BDU'S came into existence. I was stationed at Fort Dix and went off post for lunch. The group I was with didn't do anything radical. All we did was sit and eat our lunch in the fast food place. No loud stuff. no horseplay. Just soft conversation and eating. After we returned to post, our 1SG called us in and told us that we couldn't go off post to eat lunch anymore. I guess somebody complained. I never found out. This was in 1984. He informed us that we could only wear our BDU'S off post if we were coming to post or going home from post. No shopping trips. We could stop for gas. It was limited then and should be limited now. There is absolutely no reason to be in BDU'S off post except for official duties. Also, they aren't very good for official duties. I was at an open Philadelphia Eagles practice and there were some local recruiters there running a wall climbing event. They looked so messed up in their BDU's. Ill fitting and wrinkly, like they just pulled them out of a bag. I have been out since 1998 and I don't know if they still have Class B's or not but, they would have been more suitable.

Response by CPT Tom Monahan made Aug 8 at 2017 4:15 PM

2017-08-08T16:15:06-04:00

If it is the uniform of the day it's the uniform of the day. Now, should it always be the uniform of the day?

Response by SPC Walter Currier made Aug 8 at 2017 9:18 PM

2017-08-08T21:18:35-04:00

when I was stationed in Germany and whether I lived on based in the barracks or out on the economy, when I was off work I was not in camo (BDU at the time). If I were driving home I would not have the BDU top on or I would put on a different shirt. then I would go directly home and change. Driving in wasnt a problem due to being in pt clothing most days. As far as while working I was a truck mechanic so coveralls or BDU was appropriate. I dont think its proper for a service memberr to hang out in camo...or any uniform unless directed to be at the location for a specific purpose in said uniform. There is always an exception though and in such cases the member should be mindful of their actions so as not to bring discredit upon the military.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 2:51 AM

2017-08-17T02:51:48-04:00

The Army doesn't seem to realize this.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2018 2:54 PM

2018-01-10T14:54:28-05:00

Can't for the life of me think of a reason why.

Response by SPC David Willis made Jan 10 at 2018 3:44 PM

2018-01-10T15:44:27-05:00

Part of me wants to say hell yes, because I hate seeing folks in uniforms at sporting events and places like that, but Im also not going to fault a guy for stopping at a gas station or store on his way home from work while still in uniform.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Jan 10 at 2018 4:02 PM

2018-01-10T16:02:20-05:00

When dealing with other services please turn the chill dial from Oorah to Hooah. Thank you.

Response by SPC Ted Eadie made Jan 10 at 2018 6:52 PM

2018-01-10T18:52:30-05:00

Keep in mind that I was in the Army from 69-72. At that time you were never seen of post with "fatigues" on. Working in post personnel, we were rarely allowed to wear them to work (khakis or class A). I was surprised to see Army personnel "hanging out" in cammies around the DFW area. I wonder if sometimes it's just a way to draw attention to themselves. I tried to convince my Marine son to wear his Bravos while traveling. Thinking it might cut him some breaks. He did once, but complained that the shirt stays were too uncomfortable for the flights and even though he had pockets, he couldn't use them. At the airport you can always spot Marines enroute and then there are the Army guys in their cammies. Doesn't look right.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2018 8:14 PM

2018-01-10T20:14:06-05:00

So you think that someone who does not play in the mud or turn a wrench has to wear the suit and tie? Those uniforms are for dressing up, not for daily work of any type. If you disagree with that statement then think about the appearance standards of those uniforms. Are they allowed to have dust or wrinkles on them? If not then it is not a daily work uniform.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2018 12:39 AM

2018-01-11T00:39:06-05:00

Since I barely put Cammies on at work, I'm not worried about being off base in Cammies. Besides, most military uniforms look silly, so in all honesty, you should just get in civvies and call it a day.

Response by SFC Dean Lawrence made Jan 11 at 2018 2:02 AM

2018-01-11T02:02:53-05:00

When I joined in 1983, up until my retirement, the BDU Uniform were for work. If you went off base to your housing you could stop off at a store. When you traveled commercially it was the Class A uniform. Now soldiers travel in ACU's they look like s#it. Totally unprofessional. Maybe I'm too old school. But I remember buow proud we felt in dress greens with a bolo badge, a 90 day service ribbon walking through the airports.

Response by COL Tom Ritz made Jan 11 at 2018 9:40 AM

2018-01-11T09:40:18-05:00

That uniform is good enough to die in it should be good enough to wear anywhere

Response by CMSgt Russell Kendall made Jan 11 at 2018 11:43 AM

2018-01-11T11:43:15-05:00

We were never allowed to wear ‘utilities/fatigues off base. USAF(retired)

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2018 1:48 PM

2018-01-11T13:48:33-05:00

My thoughts are that service members out in public with cammies on look like nasty little children. It’s as if they are steaming to the civilians “look how cool I am because I’m in the army” maybe wear more appropriate uniforms so you take more of a business form. Something the Marine Corps will definitely pound into your brain.

Response by MCPO Forrest Erickson made Jan 11 at 2018 3:44 PM

2018-01-11T15:44:53-05:00

Why are we so ashamed of the working uniforms our troops wear? When I see members of the military on our streets in their cammies I am proud of them. I remember when I was a drilling reservist we were only allowed to stop for gas or some special things while wearing the working uniform. I see nothing wrong with it when your heading to your duty station or on the way home.

Response by Cpl Kent Mitchell made Jan 11 at 2018 6:31 PM

2018-01-11T18:31:58-05:00

Yes.

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Jan 11 at 2018 7:38 PM

2018-01-11T19:38:27-05:00

I think the other services should follow the Marines and bann yhe wear of the cammies off base unless buying gas. It should be straight home and to base.

I seen air force e7 shopping in a game store with their family, i seen army national guard flying to disney world in cammies with his family to get special treatment.

As a old gunny told me only in 3rd world nation does the army run around in cammies at the air port

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2018 8:26 PM

2018-01-11T20:26:44-05:00

Cammies should be worn on base. There really is no place for them out in town. Cammies are a work/combat uniform. As far as service uniforms in the office, I disagree, we are a society of warriors and I believe service and dress uniforms definitely have a place, we should be more focused on war fighting instead of uniform inspections, by no means am I saying anyone should look like crap in their cammies, we should take pride in any uniform worn.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2018 9:11 PM

2018-01-11T21:11:40-05:00

i think the last thing i want to do after working a 16 hour shift is change before i drive home because uniform is banned off base that makes no sense and i gaurentee the majority of lower enlisted that live off post will have the same opinion

Response by SPC Billy Laughlin made Jan 11 at 2018 10:41 PM

2018-01-11T22:41:52-05:00

I am former Army and now live in a Air Force town, I can spot a soldier,airman,marine etc no matter what they are wearing. I guess my point is that it doesn't matter what they are wearing, they just stick out to most people.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jan 11 at 2018 11:05 PM

2018-01-11T23:05:38-05:00

For Soldiers in training... YES! For the rest of us... it depends... going to and from work... lunch off post... and convenience stops to and from work only...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 12 at 2018 4:13 AM

2018-01-12T04:13:21-05:00

You're not considering reservists. I know you guys shit on us but it's easy to understand that we wear the camo cuz that was the uniform put out

Response by SPC Mark Miles made Jan 12 at 2018 10:17 AM

2018-01-12T10:17:49-05:00

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 12 at 2018 11:17 PM

2018-01-12T23:17:27-05:00

How about all the civilians who get pieces of uniforms and wear them around like its some sort of fad? A guy was wearing a bdu top today so i just assumed he served, asked him about it, Turned out he didnt and was just wearing it around, claimed it was his sisters. All i could think was wow you must have a large sister

Response by PO1 Barbara Matthews made Jan 13 at 2018 3:42 PM

2018-01-13T15:42:25-05:00

I like the look of service dress uniforms. It presents a professional appearance. The only time I see Army personnel they are in cammies. I don't even know what their service uniform looks like.

I know there has been a lot of changes in uniforms over the past few years. Even my beloved Navy has changed theirs.

I remember having to polish my dress shoes and boots (unless I wore the heels with a skirt). We looked better dressed back then.

Response by SSgt Thomas Hirschey made Jan 14 at 2018 9:07 AM

2018-01-14T09:07:04-05:00

Yes, they are work uniforms and do not look professional in public.

Response by Cpl Beau Navarre made Jan 14 at 2018 11:12 AM

2018-01-14T11:12:23-05:00

The reality is that there is no reason other than laziness as to why you don't have time to change before you leave base. There is no need for anyone to wear a combat uniform in a public area. IT SCREAMS LOOK AT ME and that's why American memorials hate the military because the see a perception of entitlement. However there are still GREATFUL Americans that respect the uniform but it would be a whole lot easier to spot fakes and stolen valor if they did ban the wearing of a combat uniform in public. Just my thoughts I never got to wear mine in public anyhow...SEMPER Fi!

Response by Maj Bret Bailey made Jan 14 at 2018 7:20 PM

2018-01-14T19:20:54-05:00

Banning utilities out in the civilian community is a solution in search of a problem. If a service member in utilities looks like crap when wearing it off base/post, then, most likely, they look like crap on duty and need to and should be corrected, regardless.

Response by SPC John Decker made Jan 14 at 2018 8:08 PM

2018-01-14T20:08:36-05:00

I don't know how many different uniforms are in use these days. I would hope not too many. There is a specific purpose(and therefore time and place to wear) each of the different uniforms. The camouflage uniform, regardless of specific type, is a working uniform. It should only be worn on base or in the field.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2018 9:04 PM

2018-01-14T21:04:11-05:00

No. And if I might elaborate: eww.

Time is valuable. Playing dress-up wastes it. If you can't give me a warfighting advantage gained by banning the wear of camo uniforms for military members in public, I'll place such a suggested ban in roughly the same place on my priority list as close-order drill practice, flintlock gunnery skills instruction, and research on the drag coefficients of tassels on flying carpets.

Response by PO1 William Ewing made Jan 14 at 2018 11:44 PM

2018-01-14T23:44:07-05:00

Back in the day, naval dungarees were exactly the same clothes prisoners wore. In facr, they were made in prison by convicts. That uniform had a good rationale for peohiting wear off base. No others do. It always seems to be an issue for politically-minded high ranking rear echelon types, never one that bothers tje people who do the real work.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2018 1:51 AM

2018-01-15T01:51:37-05:00

people are just looking for Problems to "fix".

Response by CPL Vinnie Vinanti made Jan 15 at 2018 6:11 PM

2018-01-15T18:11:48-05:00

If you are stopping to get gas or some groceries on the way home or picking up from a restaurant; yes, fine hell life happens. Going to a movie, the mall or somewhere like that, no. A combat uniform is not evening wear.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2018 10:50 PM

2018-01-15T22:50:23-05:00

I agree the dress of the combat uniform should be only worn in the field environment however one could argue that although there is no immediate threat the combat uniform on the dressed soldier dose symbolizes a ready force

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2018 2:08 PM

2018-01-16T14:08:25-05:00

It’s already a rule dumbasses like fuck civilians never know what they are talking about people just choose to ignore it. It should be a rule that civilians who know nothing about the military should scan there own lane.

Response by SPC Joe Davenport made Jan 16 at 2018 8:00 PM

2018-01-16T20:00:18-05:00

Then you get into changing time for off post residents.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2018 8:23 PM

2018-01-16T20:23:07-05:00

Yes

Response by COL Cedrick Farrior made Jan 16 at 2018 10:16 PM

2018-01-16T22:16:27-05:00

The Marine Corps does an excellent job of protecting their brand. The rules of what uniform to wear along with when and where is the reason the Corps enjoys the public perception of the highest viewed branch of the services. In the Army the duty uniform is universal and Soldiers will wear them for almost any occasion. The Marine Corps also use their Bs as a way to monitor height and weight discipline among their personnel. It really sets them apart.

Response by MSgt Michael Brodine made Jan 17 at 2018 7:03 AM

2018-01-17T07:03:25-05:00

Why? This was the practice back in my USAF career 60’s - 70’s but today near half our military is Reservist and Guard traveling off base & living in the community. In my view American politicians and citizens are chicken because they fight wars without staffing and rely too much on their back up forces.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2018 8:27 AM

2018-01-17T08:27:16-05:00

I worked in public relations for the Navy. Sometimes the soldier in the mall is the only military the public sees. In both the Navy and the Air Force regardless of which uniform I was in I have had more opportunities to have a positive influence on children running up to me asking questions about the military. You people are so stuck on things of trivial importance. Let it go. Are you doing your job in the most ethical manner? Are you streamlining processes to save taxpayer dollars? Are you truly ready for a battle?

Response by Sgt Tee Organ made Jan 17 at 2018 9:50 AM

2018-01-17T09:50:08-05:00

I thought they did, but it appears they are letting it go.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jan 17 at 2018 10:27 AM

2018-01-17T10:27:28-05:00

So you can't go to lunch without changing

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Jan 17 at 2018 12:19 PM

2018-01-17T12:19:18-05:00

The "zero-defect" days back in the late 80s and 90's sort of ruined wearing the service uniform for me. It always felt like every one you passed by was inspecting your uniform. It didn't feel like a working uniform. I'm not sure if that perception is still out there.
Personally I don't like seeing SMs out on town wearing a utility uniform. Dropping off/picking up the kids or getting gas is one thing, but eating at a restaurant or grocery shopping is another.
Is it really such an inconvenience to change clothes before heading out to Chili's to meet the wife and kids after work?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2018 12:20 PM

2018-01-17T12:20:50-05:00

No. Just no, there is enough stupid bullsh-t involved in service without making service members worry about the extra headache of prepping class As for daily use. If you're off duty then you shouldn't be in uniform, but further requirements are asinine.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2018 6:54 PM

2018-01-17T18:54:36-05:00

I can understand some restrictions, such as not wearing them to the bar or for travel, but a full-on ban is impractical. As a reservist, most months I was not provided a lunch directly by my unit, as we did not have a DFAC on site. Instead we were typically given lunch at a local restaurant which was paid for. Allowing an entire company to change, drive to the restaurant, eat, drive back to the RC, and change back into ACUs would have been a nightmare as far as time is concerned. It's certainly more a matter of when it's appropriate than is it ever appropriate.

Response by SSG John Mitchell made Jan 18 at 2018 1:02 PM

2018-01-18T13:02:32-05:00

Bragg made it REAL simple. Get your ass home & change BEFORE you go "hang out". Gas? ✔. Bread & Milk? ✔. Mall? HELL NO! Travel? Depended on the situation. Deploying? ✔. Driving to your buddy's for the weekend? You better be in civilian. If I remember correctly, the black overcoat was the only part of any uniform that could be worn with Civies. Most times we wanted out of our uniforms ASAP anyway.

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Jan 18 at 2018 6:37 PM

2018-01-18T18:37:06-05:00

My first fatigues were the old OD green cotton fatigues that came back from the cleaners so stiff you had to pry the sleeves and legs open. Then in the early ‘80’s we changed to the BDU. I retired in ‘92. There was never a time when it was acceptable to wear the utility uniform off base. You could stop for gas but you better not be in a store. That was an Art 15 just waiting to happen.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2018 10:41 AM

2018-01-19T10:41:21-05:00

"Hanging out at the mall" violates regulations, anyway. You can only where the uniform to a restaurant, the grocery store, etc, if that stop is "incidental to the wearing off the uniform." Class C's are work clothes and combat uniforms. Sidearms have been prohibited for duty personnel, so now our personnel will be even less combat ready on post. Remember Ft. Hood?

Response by CPL Justin Brown made Jan 19 at 2018 2:13 PM

2018-01-19T14:13:59-05:00

If your working on post and go off for lunch and shit fine was always policy. Well was back in the day of a function was class A’s if was there to work the function move tables and crap in the background you wore bdu’s. You also stayed out of sight. Course back then we had black boots polished changed into work boots then back into our shined boots for lunch, put on coveralls for work and took our tops off. So when you went off post you didn’t look like a soup sandwich.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2018 4:49 PM

2018-01-19T16:49:11-05:00

Being a green side doc, this was always an easy no. The uniform is a Marine Corps uniform they don't allow it so I don't do it.
To look at is from a different angle, I always kind of thought the Army encouraged it because it's free advertising and the army needs bodies. A high school senior isn't sure about what he wants to join or not, hey I can ask that guy in the cammies.
I think it's about appearance, it doesn't look as good. Whatever.
Kids these days want it easy. If you tell hold them to the struck old standards. You won't have them for but one contact if they even do that at all.
Just my thoughts.

Response by MSgt Daniel Armstrong made Jan 19 at 2018 6:41 PM

2018-01-19T18:41:16-05:00

If I recall, that is the way is use to be. You could wear it when heading to work, or home, and for short stops (coffee, gas station, etc.) They did make an exception for off base duty, like I was a USAF Missile cop, and our "duty station" was 23,000 square miles of central Montana. Of course back then the camouflage uniforms looked good. The current sets look like crap.

Response by Cpl Brian Ruby made Jan 19 at 2018 9:31 PM

2018-01-19T21:31:25-05:00

Either civies or Class A uniform off base. Do you wear your greasy work overalls out to dinner? But that my Marine Corps ride talking. If I was wearing camouflage I was the last person you were going to see.

Response by SGT Jennifer Bradley made Jan 20 at 2018 5:14 AM

2018-01-20T05:14:50-05:00

Hell my 1SG had me go to the mall during business hours in ACUs to pick up a gift for his woman lol

Response by TSgt Daniel Wareham made Jan 20 at 2018 7:42 AM

2018-01-20T07:42:34-05:00

Perhaps I'm showing my age, but during my service time, you did not go grocery shopping or out to eat with your family while wearing your BDUs. Stopping for gas or carry out from fast food was about it.

When I see someone in Wal-Mart with a full grocery carry and wearing fatigues, I want to cringe. But then I want to cringe when I see women with hairstyles that would have been against the regs back then. Hair buns so big that they make Princess Leia's look small.
I guess they are allowed to starch their stuff now..

Now granted, I was a flight line pike back then and when I got a new uniform, I would dunk it in a bucket of hydro fluid so that it would be "uniformly" stained. A lot has changed since then, so now I try to cringe, shake me head and go about my business. Even if it means sitting down to eat at a decent restaurant and have the table next to me with a family out to dinner with one of the parents in fatigues.

It's a new world and a new military. It's no longer "ours" just as ours wasn't the same as our parent's military.

Response by PFC Josiah Schmid made Jan 20 at 2018 4:54 PM

2018-01-20T16:54:56-05:00

If you live off post just drive home and change out of uniform

Response by PO2 Roger O'Day made Jan 20 at 2018 9:24 PM

2018-01-20T21:24:46-05:00

This is a generational question.
It will never go away.

Response by CPT Paul S Guglietta made Jan 20 at 2018 11:22 PM

2018-01-20T23:22:28-05:00

When I was on active duty, you were not allowed to wear your fatigues off base, you either worn civilian cloth or your Class A, etc. If were married and lived off post you we allowed to wear your fatigues to and from work/duty. However, back in the day we either were issued OD’s or Greens and Kahkis. We were not issued all kinds of different uniforms that you and mix and match as they are allowed to wear today.
When , I see active duty Officers and Enlisted wearing their work uniform off post at the grocery store etc,for the most part they look sloppy. That however is my opinion, I feel that no work uniform of any kind , camouflage or not be worn, except to and from duty.

Response by SR Maxwell Falany made Jan 21 at 2018 8:42 AM

2018-01-21T08:42:17-05:00

Thats how it should be, it would probably eliminate most if not all acts of stolen valor also.

Response by SFC Ben Coffey made Jan 21 at 2018 7:26 PM

2018-01-21T19:26:45-05:00

So in my day, we were allowed to wear BDU’s to shop off post, but not PT uniforms. What if a soldier who lives off post has to stop and get groceries after work. Is he supposed to go home, change into Class A’s and then go to the store? That’s dumb.

Response by PO2 Richard Sprague made Jan 21 at 2018 7:36 PM

2018-01-21T19:36:00-05:00

Too many ex-servicemen and civilians wear camo. In today’s world every servicemember is a jihadi’s tarfet. Since our military can’t carry arms in public in many States, let them wear civvies off base.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Jan 21 at 2018 8:42 PM

2018-01-21T20:42:31-05:00

Probably very old school but I do have problems with it. Back in my days this was strictly verboten but rules have changed through the years in the name of morale. I still think this was a mistake. Sure there is no problem with quick stops for gas or to pick up dinner on the way home, but out shopping at the mall with the family in camouflaged uniforms still bothers me.

Response by Sgt Lopaka Ornellas made Jan 21 at 2018 9:43 PM

2018-01-21T21:43:40-05:00

Yes.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Jan 21 at 2018 10:05 PM

2018-01-21T22:05:14-05:00

The Corps was always very mindful of a Marine presenting a clean, neat and professional appearance. Utilities or Camies are work uniforms and, unless you are stuck in a desk job, tend to become soiled and, depending upon how soiled, even offensive. The same is true of civilian occupations where work clothing becomes inappropriate for shopping and presence bars, restaurants and professional offices. During the earlier part of my career, you were expected to be in the seasonal uniform transiting between off base housing and the base. After a while, we were allowed to have our blouse hanging in the car instead of being worn (I replaced several sets of greens because the blouse became sun bleached). As time went on, we were allowed to wear our utilities or flight suits back and forth to work, but strictly forbidden from getting out of the car. My wife, on several occasions, verified the Corp position by insisting I get out of my "smelly" flight suit before she would let me get close to her.

Response by PO1 John Fitzgerald made Jan 21 at 2018 10:59 PM

2018-01-21T22:59:54-05:00

It’s ridiculous that people want them confined to base. There is no reason for that except for “that’s the way it’s always been” or “This makes me feel important as a senior NCO”.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-01-21T23:31:44-05:00

Unless it’s the only uniform that you currently have, but other than that l guess it would depend on the Situation and the Commander Agenda.

Response by SN Pk Radford made Jan 22 at 2018 1:07 AM

2018-01-22T01:07:38-05:00

When my hubby and I were both AD the policy was no dugarees/cammies out in town. My personal opinion, I hate seeing cammies of all colors out in town. I admit to being old school when it comes to this. I can remember when flight suits were allowed for gas, child pick up, milk, stops only.

Response by Sgt Benjamin Turner made Jan 22 at 2018 10:07 AM

2018-01-22T10:07:58-05:00

I do not see why there would need to be DOD directive. Just in the DC area alone, I see active duty personnel in all forms of uniforms, various stages of service uni's and BDUs, going to and from their assigned duty stations.

So should there be a DOD level ban? Hell no. I would hate to have some paper pusher in DC decide that if you're not in the field then you wear the service uniform of the day because by the time it makes it down to field grade ranks you have some overzealous Capt and 1stSgt now having troops out there PMing vehicles and doing weapons maintenance in Service Charlies getting dirty and needing to be dry cleaned and taking away from your beer money.

Response by SGT(P) Joe Zitzelberger made Jan 22 at 2018 8:34 PM

2018-01-22T20:34:02-05:00

Absolutely not.

I know plenty of marines will have a cow with this idea, but their bases are in large cities -- San Diego, Honolulu -- where most of the civilian population has no military affiliation. It matters more in places like that.

Army bases tend to be in isolated shitholes like Hinesville, Georgia, Killeen, Texas, DeRidder, Louisiana, and the like -- literally, the only reason the town outside the base exists is to serve as housing for the military that live there, otherwise, they would be ghost towns. To tell a soldier that they can't drive to and from work in ODs/BDUs/ACUs/Whatever because some fellow soldier or military dependent might see them is kinda silly. And the idea of sticking junior enlisted with dry cleaning bills for ASUs is equally bad.

The current policy of only stopping for necessities while in utility uniform is totally reasonable and should be maintained.

Response by John Joseph Carver made Jan 22 at 2018 11:23 PM

2018-01-22T23:23:05-05:00

Realistically, it's not feasible. How many service members leave work and hard to their house, off base, and have to stop at the grocery store, the pharmacy, and several other places to handle film business? Not to mention, in military towns, how seeing the uniform gets most vets a wide berth as they go about their business. I think the cammies lend to a mentality that whatever your job, wherever you are, you have to keep a war fighters awareness and preparedness at all times. Keeping the uniform out of bars is probably as much as I'd recommend.

Response by SPC Frank Winn made Jan 22 at 2018 11:30 PM

2018-01-22T23:30:49-05:00

Class A's or B's in public.

Response by LCpl Michael Downs made Jan 23 at 2018 1:09 PM

2018-01-23T13:09:01-05:00

When I was in we didn't go off base in uniform. Expect at break to pick up are uniforms or go home.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2018 5:48 PM

2018-01-23T17:48:42-05:00

In the Airforce, I believe our AFI states you won't wear ABUs outside of base unless its for a convenient stop such as picking up something at the store, pumping gas, etc. Now bases may be different given your commander or rules based on security but in the end i think from my experience in technical training that most of us think we look better in ABUs with a flat collar and creased sleeves but would love to go in civs for the off duty hours.

Response by 1SG John Highfill made Jan 24 at 2018 7:45 AM

2018-01-24T07:45:19-05:00

Is this really worth a discussion

Response by SFC Thomas Stonebraker made Jan 24 at 2018 3:37 PM

2018-01-24T15:37:11-05:00

Back in t he green fatigue days, you better not be off post in them. The only exception was going straight to your home, if you lived off post. Quick stop a 7-11 for a quart of milk was ok. I still think that's why drive thrus became so popular.

Response by Van Williams made Jan 24 at 2018 4:19 PM

2018-01-24T16:19:11-05:00

I feel their presence known should not be taken out of context. Be it to show pride in our military, external security at the establishment worn, pride in our country, letting the younger generations become self aware of our national pride or self realization that they themselves may want to serve with the admiration along with the under appreciated role in protecting our country needs to be addressed and pride in this unappreciated role should not be taken lightly

Response by Sgt Dj Coburger made Jan 24 at 2018 6:47 PM

2018-01-24T18:47:04-05:00

When I was in the Marine Corps back in the eighties. We were never allowed to wear our camouflage BDU's off of base. Don't know when or why that has change. If we went out into town in any uniform, it had to be our A's, B's, or C's.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2018 7:53 PM

2018-01-24T19:53:10-05:00

Absolutly not

Response by PO3 Bill O'Donnell made Jan 25 at 2018 12:01 AM

2018-01-25T00:01:26-05:00

I think it's more professional and hives a better appearance when off base to wear class A or B. Even the Navy would not permit the wearing of dungarees off base.

Response by SCPO David Taber made Jan 25 at 2018 12:43 AM

2018-01-25T00:43:38-05:00

No ban

Response by SSgt David Marks made Jan 25 at 2018 1:29 AM

2018-01-25T01:29:30-05:00

No. If you live off base, you have to wear the uniform to and from work. As for doing private activities for instance going out to a movie or a restaurant, you must wear civvies unless it's a official military function held off base.

Response by A1C Stanley Kolakowski made Jan 25 at 2018 9:04 AM

2018-01-25T09:04:52-05:00

All 4 services have a regulation prohibiting "bringing dishonor upon the military while wearing the uniform".
All 4 services have (or at least had, not sure of current status) a regulation restricting the wear of combat/work uniforms off base.

Thusly, why involve DoD at all, other than to bring a "uniformity" to this situation at the cost of the service-level (frequently even base or unit) level flexibility that the current setup allows?

Is this a "closet" attempt to "forcibly" loosen Marine Regs to be more Army-like, or impose Marine discipline on everybody else? Otherwise, I see no reason to deviate from the current standard(s)...

What's next, DoD dictating/imposing mandatory Dress & combat-gear days?

Response by PFC Mark Diorio made Jan 25 at 2018 12:19 PM

2018-01-25T12:19:02-05:00

No certain soldiers live off base

Response by SPC David Payne made Jan 26 at 2018 12:56 AM

2018-01-26T00:56:45-05:00

Wait, what? Wearing camouflage is "unprofessional"? Seriously? Yeah, the bright green POLYESTER Class A/B of the Army looks so much better, NOT!!!
I live 2 miles from Ft. Carson and see soldiers in the convenience store in their ACUs all the time and have absolutely no problem with it.
Would you expect someone with a professional civilian job to wear a 2 piece suit just to get a soda? Why would you expect a soldier or Marine to do just that?
I think that senior NCOs constantly need to boost their own egos and illustrate just how much the lower enlisted are under their control and I can't STAND a bully.
If an individual soldier/Marine has a problem with looking squared away then their leadership needs to address it with the individual, period.
Our military has earned the right to be comfortable when they're not getting shot at or otherwise putting their life on the line.
Military leadership has more to worry about, like the utter invalidation of the National Defense Service Ribbon and why the Army has a 23% reenlistment rate or why the Air Force can't understand that they'd attract way more people if they merely guaranteed people a job/MOS.
Military leadership is focusing on the wrong things IMHO.

Response by CPT Wes Marsh made Jan 26 at 2018 12:28 PM

2018-01-26T12:28:23-05:00

It bothers me when I see service members (and cops) wearing combat uniforms on the streets of America. It looks too much like an army of occupation has arrived on our shores.

Response by PFC Randy Harrington made Jan 26 at 2018 3:43 PM

2018-01-26T15:43:46-05:00

I say BDU should be worn at all times when not at a formal event! This includes in the office and in public !
Our military men and women are always supposed to be ready to respond to a threat or crisis . Dress uniforms are not functional for people who may be called soon to act on a moments notice . Example on 911 after that incident military members were both extra security personnel that could be used ,a deterrent to further action by possible ground based terriorist , and rescuers !
Anyone who feels threatyby the combat or battle uniform only has to ask 2 questions 1) am I doing something that puts the general public at undue risk of great harm 2) do I want those trained to stop those who answer yes to question one to be as prepared to act when the time comes as possible . If you answered yes to question one then you should be afraid and we should want you that way . If you answered no to one then you should answer yes to question 2.
I’m a US Marine and I guarantee you a few dozen marines in town with BDU on and the chance of a terriorist incident goes way down bc they know they will be opposed with deadly accurate force

Response by Cpl Lloyd Martin made Jan 26 at 2018 5:18 PM

2018-01-26T17:18:10-05:00

Definitely. Plain fatigues are fine off base. Camo is for one thing camoflage

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2018 7:46 PM

2018-01-26T19:46:18-05:00

Forgive me if this has not already been addressed, but National Guard Soldiers , particularly fulltimers at armories scattered in more than 60 locations throughout my state and in 53 other states and territories do not have the opportunity to eat chow or purchase work-related items on post. Our cities and towns ARE our installations, and have been here since 1874. There is more than a century of tradition and expectation that our Guardsmen are prepared at a moments notice to assist the citizens of our state, not collate in a crisp white shirt and blue pants so non-descript that most civilians have no idea it is a military uniform When our Guardsmen respond to state emergencies, most recently Hurricanes Irma and Matthew and winter storms, we do so in OCP. Our citizens associate the OCP and ACU with their Guard units, and the history of those units. The uniform is not the issue. If a person looks like a bag of donuts in a field uniform they are going to look worse in a Class B, particularly after day three in 87 percent humidity.

Response by SFC Jerry Humphries made Jan 27 at 2018 10:52 AM

2018-01-27T10:52:28-05:00

During the duty day, it is an unrealistic requirement to eliminate all of post wear of the daily duty uniform. Service members will always have a need to conduct some type of business off post during the duty day.
How ever I due promote the Correct wear of the uniform and sharp appearance of those conducting such activities off post. To many times I have seen rag bags not wearing that uniform correctly Off post. Correct wear of that uniform needs to be stressed both on and off post.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2018 10:54 AM

2018-01-27T10:54:41-05:00

Hi agree with COL Grierson. More analysis of the “why” behind a policy change is needed. As a Commander I sought to never impose restrictions that limited my soldiers actions unless those actions would violate Army Policy and State and Feddral Law. I don’t think the DoD needs to weigh in on this unless it is to preserve safety. The current regulations are sufficient. I want servicemen’s to feel pride when wearing the uniform as dictated by current policy. I don’t need to micromanage or make their lives more difficult for a nebulous gain.

Response by SPC Randy Torgerson made Jan 27 at 2018 12:32 PM

2018-01-27T12:32:24-05:00

Of course not.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2018 1:07 PM

2018-01-27T13:07:18-05:00

Pretty hard to recruit new servicemembers without a uniform.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2018 7:49 PM

2018-01-27T19:49:22-05:00

Who cares what uniform you can wear as long as you can perform your job, can you kill people, support the killing of people, and win wars? If yes then No one cares what your uniform looks like. The people who are concerned about this are the same people with a million military bumper stickers and a high and stupid haircut.

Response by SPC Michael Dehn made Jan 28 at 2018 1:00 PM

2018-01-28T13:00:02-05:00

I'm older not old. I wore BDU's. As long as you're not looking like like a rag bag, wear them. Be proud. My 2 cents.

I'm not sure if it's true, but I heard that Fort Jackson had a Class A/B rule. To get in and out of the gate, you had to wear them. It doesn't seem practical to wear class A's/B's, change into a PT uniform, then your BDU's or ECU's then back into your Class A's/B's again when you leave.

Like I said, not sure if that was a military urban legend or not. I apologise in advance if not true.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2018 1:39 PM

2018-01-28T13:39:43-05:00

.. who on earth wants to be wearing your uniform in public anyways? Not only does it make you stand out like a sore thumb, it limits the places you’re allowed to go, and the things you’re allowed to do.

Response by Capt John Young made Jan 28 at 2018 4:13 PM

2018-01-28T16:13:52-05:00

Why is this even an issue? As a former crewdog who’s traded his flightsuit for a suit and tie, no one in Corporate America fusses about clothes unless they’re inappropriate. As such, you should wear whatever is appropriate for the circumstances. Case in point: If you’re attending an event where the the civilians are most likely wearing business attire, wear your Class A dress uniform. If they’re in business casual, then Class B. If you’re out in the general public, wear whatever your typical duty uniform is (ACU/BDU/flightsuit/whatever). Being sharp isn’t simply a function of what uniform you’re wearing; it’s a combination of factors, such as bearing, grooming and attention to detail. For example, Air Force Thunderbird pilots wear a variation of the same shlubby “bag” that every crewdog wears, the difference being color, pointy collars, and fewer pockets, yet no one would say they’re any less sharp than Airman Duffy in his dress uniform.

Response by SSG Clifford Hogge made Jan 28 at 2018 6:01 PM

2018-01-28T18:01:06-05:00

When I was in the army with early 75th Ranger Bn and we did not wear them off post

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2018 6:14 PM

2018-01-28T18:14:52-05:00

Listen after a long day I may have some sh*t to grab from Wal-Mart I don't wanna stop home and change. We gotta stop looking for more ways to suffocate soldiers. Focus of important, impactful rules/regs/customs/courtesy.. Not nit picky garbage like this.

Response by CW3 Harvey K. made Jan 28 at 2018 6:22 PM

2018-01-28T18:22:09-05:00

A combat uniform worn in civil society is only proper if martial law has been declared. The uniform should then be "accessorized" with the weapon issued to the individual.

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Jan 28 at 2018 9:44 PM

2018-01-28T21:44:07-05:00

Yes.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jan 28 at 2018 10:18 PM

2018-01-28T22:18:42-05:00

Did I say yes yet?

Response by CPL Scott Hartsell made Jan 29 at 2018 10:09 AM

2018-01-29T10:09:19-05:00

No.

Response by SFC Patrick Farnon made Jan 29 at 2018 3:32 PM

2018-01-29T15:32:45-05:00

The ACU/BDU should be restricted to wear in the line of duty... not shopping downtown or when going on pcs, via air travel in an airport. I see hundreds of soldiers going home in the major airport wearing the ACU/BDU uniforms instead of the appropriate Class A uniform. During my time in the military there used to be Military Police patrolling the major airports to insure proper uniform wear. If you must wear a uniform in-transit then get into the Class A uniform and wear it with pride.

Response by PO2 Jim Driskell made Jan 29 at 2018 4:11 PM

2018-01-29T16:11:08-05:00

It really is pretty ticky-tack, some guy in DC sitting in an ultra-modern office wearing a work uniform. Sure couldn't do that in the private secotry

Response by SgtMaj Kenneth Dillon made Jan 29 at 2018 7:17 PM

2018-01-29T19:17:23-05:00

Maybe it's just my jar head mindset, but I couldn't believe it when I saw an Army major at the movie theater on a Saturday afternoon.

Response by PO3 Pat Hagan made Jan 30 at 2018 1:26 AM

2018-01-30T01:26:11-05:00

I'd say any uniform, barring coveralls and the like, are perfectly fine for off-base as long as they are clean and present a professional image of the service they represent. I have to say, I do like the present blue NWU's the Navy is wearing these days over the old Dungarees we were wearing when I was in. They were definitely uniquely "Navy" but it didn't take very long for them to look all faded and ratty. We weren't even allowed to wear dungarees off base when I served. You could drive your car off base in them but couldn't get out of your car until you got home.

Response by MSG Jim Cleffi made Jan 30 at 2018 6:55 AM

2018-01-30T06:55:31-05:00

There was a time when the Army could wear BDUs or camouflage to and from home to the base and to make a stop for milk or other minimal purchases of necessity for a family. I'm not sure when that changed I'm.

Response by MSgt Philip Ogiba made Jan 30 at 2018 7:58 AM

2018-01-30T07:58:00-05:00

Should always take pride in any of the uniforms. I don't understand why this is even a question. Are there those who are afraid of issenters. I'm not afraid to wear something that says I'm a veteran.

Response by LCDR Timothy Sr made Jan 30 at 2018 9:53 AM

2018-01-30T09:53:11-05:00

Typical of an Army perspective. They all look like slobs in airports in theit cammies. Put on a dress uniform snd represent the military with pride.

Response by SSG Mark D. made Jan 30 at 2018 11:26 AM

2018-01-30T11:26:40-05:00

There are already regulations about of wear of duty uniforms off duty. However, since the early 90's many commands started getting lacks in enforcing them. The commanders need to start re-enforcing the regulations.

Response by PO1 Dana Pierson made Jan 30 at 2018 1:47 PM

2018-01-30T13:47:40-05:00

The chamo uniforms are the most comfortable and its the military so... I hated wearing the other uniforms. And if I need to save a trip out in town by grabbing groceries or whatever, in the way home, I would prefer to be comfortable. Now that I am retired and I see someone out in town in the Kamies uniform... It makes me smile and gives me the urge to at least nod in respect. So I like seeing the uniform in town.
As far as a greasy/dirty uniform... The only place that would be acceptible is in a car parts store because your car broke down and you have no choice.

Response by SGT Jack Baxter made Jan 30 at 2018 7:15 PM

2018-01-30T19:15:49-05:00

Response by SGT Zachary Gore made Jan 30 at 2018 8:01 PM

2018-01-30T20:01:43-05:00

I was Army 3rd ID Infantryman. I agree there is plenty of opportunities to change on base. I believe that the ASU should be the only appropriate attire off base and only worn when on official business. It promotes professionalism and will be easy to call out the fakers. The camouflage uniform are for training, maintenance and deployment. But that's just my opinion. I was just an 11B Buck Sgt.

Response by 1stSgt Donald Smith made Jan 30 at 2018 10:04 PM

2018-01-30T22:04:49-05:00

Yes, lets dress up when going to town and wear the class A uniform. Yes, it takes time to put the uniform on and wear it properly but let's be proud of it.

Response by LCpl Chris Purdom made Jan 30 at 2018 11:59 PM

2018-01-30T23:59:47-05:00

That was the policy when I was in the Corps. Cammies were not allowed outside of base. If you had a flat, you'd put a jacket or shirt over your cammies. I think we should definitely go back to this policy.

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Jan 31 at 2018 1:25 PM

2018-01-31T13:25:53-05:00

I’ve been a civilian for many years now and there is absolutely nothing offensive about seeing our guys in cammy! The average civilian doesn’t know what the hell he’s looking at anyway.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2018 5:42 PM

2018-01-31T17:42:35-05:00

Back in the day- 80s 90s Army policy was no BDUs off post except if you were making a quick stop for Home essentials like milk. After 9/11 we wore them all the time to show the nation we were at war. Unlike the Navy and Marines the Army does not have a work uniform. It’s BDU/ACU/OCPs or you dress uniform (A or B). No daily service uniform. Just dress and utility. So that’s where we are at.

Response by PFC Alton Dixon made Jan 31 at 2018 7:50 PM

2018-01-31T19:50:42-05:00

When I was in the Army, in the early '80's we had the olive drab fatigues. Then came the BDU's and now ACU's. I feel if you're going to be assigned to work at Battalion office or Brigade offices, the BDU/ACU'S would be proper. But if you are assigned to base headquarters or the Pentagon, or NATO headquarters in Belgium, dress uniforms would be appropriate dress.

Response by SPC James Hager made Jan 31 at 2018 9:26 PM

2018-01-31T21:26:05-05:00

When I was in camo was for brief, necessary stops off-post. Period.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2018 10:36 PM

2018-01-31T22:36:58-05:00

Uniform is just uniform - nothing else. Could we ban guy from McDonalds who went out in their uniform to buy something in the Walmart? But if it used in inappropriate way I think about AR 670-1.

Response by SSG Sidney Johnston made Feb 1 at 2018 6:57 AM

2018-02-01T06:57:44-05:00

BDU’s are comfortable, and when I was on active duty (1983- 2004) as a medic it was way better than wearing the white medic uniform. Because you never knew what you were going to get into. Of course we polished our boots and ironed our uniforms back then and looked sharp. I really don’t think it matters when & what uniform you wear...we had restrictions on uniforms at Ft Bragg and it just complicated life...

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Feb 1 at 2018 8:03 AM

2018-02-01T08:03:50-05:00

I get it I do, but we were not allowed to wear BDUs off base or thru any gate, period. Guys who lived off base had to wear the dress of the day to get thru the gates. As far as wearing BDUs to avoid showing military affiliation it's kind of laughable. If your anywhere near a Marine base you can easily identify any marine by their shaved dome or high and tight, sorry we can't hide from the haircut regulations, and even if they allowed longer hair the military bearing stands out like a neon sign. There's no way to hide a Marine he is what he is even if he would be wearing torn jeans, long hair and a beard. But I'd be in on relaxing the hair cuts and facial hair if the intent wasn't to so easily stand out in public.

Response by SGT Ben Barr made Feb 1 at 2018 10:29 AM

2018-02-01T10:29:46-05:00

Shouldn't be wearing if you're not working. Seems to be a consensus among all. Should be the eneforced standard anyways.

Response by PV2 Michael Whiddon made Feb 1 at 2018 5:10 PM

2018-02-01T17:10:24-05:00

AR 670-1 already states that soldiers can't wear the combat uniform to do social activities like going to the mall, to the movies, bars and stuff like that. So I really don't think they need a new rule. Soldiers need to follow the regs already in place. It's not rocket surgery.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 1 at 2018 5:57 PM

2018-02-01T17:57:28-05:00

He'll no what you going to change cloths to go home if you live off base. Hello why not wear it be proud of your uniform.screw the civilians and what they think; WE ALL EARNED THE RIGHT TO WEAR THAT UNIFORM OFF POST.

Response by SCPO Steven Higgins made Feb 1 at 2018 6:17 PM

2018-02-01T18:17:42-05:00

I believe that camies are a military working uniform. Off bass in public and not work. All member of the Armed Forces need to look sharp uniform of the day not working uniform off bass

Response by SCPO Steven Higgins made Feb 1 at 2018 6:18 PM

2018-02-01T18:18:03-05:00

I believe that camies are a military working uniform. Off bass in public and not work. All member of the Armed Forces need to look sharp uniform of the day not working uniform off bass

Response by TSgt Johnnie Keller made Feb 1 at 2018 7:10 PM

2018-02-01T19:10:10-05:00

Yes and P.T. uniforms too. I go into the local grocery store and there is a person in their camo uniform. It is sad that the standards are gone that I used to be under.

Response by SFC Alan Varvil made Feb 1 at 2018 8:48 PM

2018-02-01T20:48:41-05:00

I love the fact that the same issues keep going round and round and round. So a soldier going off-duty has to change clothes before they pick up their kids at daycare, pick up a gallon of milk, or stop at MacDonalds? Certainly there are certain places where it shouldn't be worn ...anyplace etiquette requires proper evening wear, for example. But anyplace where denim is appropriate for civilians (except perhaps bars, strip clubs, etc) should be acceptable for a duty uniform. Additionally, there is the recruiting aspect. There is a large percentage of the target age group that finds camo to be more appealing that dress uniforms...and a soldier wearing camo - as long as their appearance conforms to regulation ...works as free walking billboards for military recruitment.

Response by Sgt Steve Sprouse made Feb 1 at 2018 9:51 PM

2018-02-01T21:51:37-05:00

In my service days, First couple of years couldn’t wear Utilities off base. If you lived off base you changed. Then they started allowing Marines to wear Utilities off base to and from work with no stopping. We couldn’t even wear at home on leave. Things have sure changed.

Response by SPC Marvin Smith made Feb 1 at 2018 10:01 PM

2018-02-01T22:01:07-05:00

Hell no! If the uniform is good enough for the sm to wear and possibly die in. Then it is good enough to wear off base. If people don't wont to see it, then they can turn their heads.

Response by Cpl Michael Stefansky made Feb 1 at 2018 10:06 PM

2018-02-01T22:06:29-05:00

Uniforms are ‘work’ attire. In the Marine Corp it has always not been allowed to wear your uniform unless you are traveling to and from work.
We traveled in civilian attire until arrriving to the base if traveling long distances.
I come from Old School Marine Corps.

Response by MSgt Neil Greenfield made Feb 1 at 2018 10:36 PM

2018-02-01T22:36:20-05:00

I always thought those rules were idiotic when I was in the Army. Especially when those personnel living off base could not wear their fatigues/BDU's while driving to work on base, change into their uniforms and then had to change back into civvies before leaving for the day. It lacked total common sense and only served someone's perception of what looked professional or not. On the other hand, I saw nothing wrong with being required to wear Class B's at least once per week for those working in office environments.

Response by SGT Clayton Magee made Feb 2 at 2018 12:37 AM

2018-02-02T00:37:52-05:00

At the minimum they should be allowed for the people who live off base to wear between Home and base and for brief stops along the route to buy things for their home. For instance milk bread etc.

Response by SPC Mark Mckinney made Feb 2 at 2018 7:52 AM

2018-02-02T07:52:00-05:00

BDUs, DCUs, or whatever is in use today should be worn on routine duty. You train as you fight (the way it used to be anyway). Every day is a training day. As far as hanging out off post in uniform, I find it in poor taste. It’s already pretty much a given when you are serving, no need to flaunt it. Going from point a to point b and stopping to pick something up is one thing, but I’ve seen too many soldiers in ate up uniforms hanging out in all kinds of places including bars (which, if I’m not mistaken, used to be against regs.). Most of the time, I find out that they are National Girls or Reserves, but some are Active duty. I think all branches can use some polishing up on proper etiquette.

Response by SSG Jim Blunt made Feb 2 at 2018 11:02 AM

2018-02-02T11:02:38-05:00

When I was in (1982-1992), BDUs were off limits for wear off post, regardless of the reason why. If you had personal business off post, you were required to change into civilian attire. If you wanted to eat off post, same thing. If you lived off post, you were allowed to wear them during your commute home and then you were expected to change.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2018 11:14 AM

2018-02-02T11:14:33-05:00

It just really depends. To just go off post and hang out, absolutely it should be banned. Now if we are talking off post in general, I'd be super annoyed to have to take extra time at work to change in to civilians just to go home off base.

Response by Cpl George Goodwin made Feb 2 at 2018 5:03 PM

2018-02-02T17:03:09-05:00

When I was in USMC we were not allowed to wear BDU's off base. This should be policy DOD wide, guys walking around in cammies look like garbage. Military members should present a professional appearance to the public.

Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Feb 2 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-02-02T19:34:13-05:00

I don’t see the need for a change in this. If you are around a military base civilians are going to know you are in the service because of your stature, haircut, and for most your composure. I don’t think they should be out at a restaurant eating or at a bar drinking but if you have to stop and get gas I’m ok with that. So if you live off post like many have to do it would be crazy to drive to and from work and change clothes before each. I know my opinion is my own and it’s not worth a penny but I don’t think the policy needs to change. I remember when I was in Germany if there was a threat we were told not to leave base in our uniform so leave that decision up to the commanders.

Response by CPO David Sharp made Feb 3 at 2018 11:50 AM

2018-02-03T11:50:17-05:00

During my time with the Navy Seabees, it was prohibited to wear "cammies" off base. The exception was going from home in a vehicle to the base or a brief stop for gas, milk, etc. There was no deviation allowed to this policy.

Response by CW3 Joseph Riley made Feb 3 at 2018 1:44 PM

2018-02-03T13:44:28-05:00

I can't think of one valid reason to ban them off post. Back in 1965 when I first enlisted, fatigues could only be worn off post in your car on a direct trip to your residence. Glad it has changed.

Response by Cpl Matthew Martin made Feb 3 at 2018 11:43 PM

2018-02-03T23:43:02-05:00

You can’t wear cammies off base anyways or pt gear in establishments. Trust me though if you’re a hunter like me you wear them everywhere!

Response by LCpl James Hieb made Feb 4 at 2018 2:07 AM

2018-02-04T02:07:19-05:00

I was always told that the cammies were for war fighting and for training for war fighting. I was always told to wear my dress uniforms around civilians.

Response by MSG Dave Rossman made Feb 4 at 2018 11:59 AM

2018-02-04T11:59:45-05:00

Hell, I still wear DCU's for yardwork,,,

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2018 12:34 PM

2018-02-04T12:34:55-05:00

To be frank, I don't care. I don't like being on uniform any more than the next guy. Being in uniform means that I can't let my hair down; not even for a second. And no, I'm not saying I'm going to roam free like a wild lion but it's the small things like smoking a cigar, walking and talking on my phone, using the pockets that God gave me for their intended use. Things that they army has taken away from me in uniform, almost ensure that I'm not going to be in uniform after hours. I don't know why people want to hang out in it. Now, that goes without saying, if you're going to make a stop on the way home, by all means do so but I believe that more often than not soldiers will opt not to wear the uniform.

To answer the question, no. I think a ban will be a complete waste of time and energy. Most people are making pit stops and they're going to the house. They're not going to the club in ACUs.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2018 1:28 PM

2018-02-04T13:28:19-05:00

If u think about it. Those that just did Basic still wear the glasses issued to them there. And not a bunch of people out side of the military have those. That and our haircuts give it away. Not sure about anyone else but I wear my dog tags everywhere I go and u can tell what they are if your looking at my neck if I'm in a line or something for food.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2018 1:29 PM

2018-02-04T13:29:05-05:00

Yes

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2018 1:31 PM

2018-02-04T13:31:17-05:00

Yes

Response by SGT Kenneth Stelly made Feb 4 at 2018 2:52 PM

2018-02-04T14:52:02-05:00

Your Pajamas should not be worn off post... Ragbags without boots and Kiwi polish... Spit shine yourself!

Response by PO3 Tom Gotwols made Feb 5 at 2018 3:52 AM

2018-02-05T03:52:57-05:00

Yes

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2018 12:12 PM

2018-02-05T12:12:03-05:00

No one will agree with me, I'm sure, but here goes.

Yes. And my reasoning is pretty simple. I just don't think that the military's presence should be as high profile as it is. Since 9/11, the idea has been perpetuated that the government and the military *is* the nation, when it should not be the case. The military is the pistol you concealed carry. It doesn't come out until you need it, and it shouldn't be hanging out for you to flaunt. The nation is not it's military. The nation is it's freedom and it's people, and the rights the people have, and the goals and dreams and opportunities that those rights secure.

Response by MSgt Jim Craig made Feb 5 at 2018 12:44 PM

2018-02-05T12:44:09-05:00

YES!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2018 2:37 PM

2018-02-05T14:37:21-05:00

We should be allowed to wear some type of service uniform off base, it inspires civilian confidence in our armed forces.

Response by SGT Tj Casiano made Feb 5 at 2018 4:59 PM

2018-02-05T16:59:11-05:00

Absolutely not! There aren't enough restaurants on post for us to have to change whenever we go out for lunch.

Response by SP5 Michael Chambers made Feb 5 at 2018 7:17 PM

2018-02-05T19:17:44-05:00

Should they? Perhaps. Is the DoD ready to provide a place for every service member to have a locker, equipment storage, and shower facilities? That's no small expense. And it is precisely what is needed if this ban were to be adopted. As for soldiers in pretty uniforms... I served twenty years and would regular spend 6 months or more in the field training. Try to remember that our special operations forces are not always our best looking, but, there is no one I would rather have watch my back while we pick a fight. So worry less about how Joey looks and concentrate more on how Joey performs. It might just save your life. As for big picture on this issue recognize that troops in uniform in the community historically have been a positive influence on our citizens peception of the military and a boon to recruiting as well.
Respectfully,
SGT Mike

Response by Sgt Ronald Paden made Feb 5 at 2018 8:01 PM

2018-02-05T20:01:56-05:00

Back in my day it was only strait to the house change before going out in the public

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 8:01 AM

2018-02-06T08:01:27-05:00

Personally I would like to see another flash back to the professional days of the the Army when we had a professional khaki uniform for daily wear and Camo was for field and dirty work. I remember my day always looking professional and as his rank increased he spent less time in field garb. Our branch got rid of it and strongly encouraged Soldiers to travel everywhere in ACUs and even wearing APFT jacket around was no longer frowned upon. I know a lot of this was gotten rid of for cost on the Soldier but the overall cost on professionalism and discipline has shown. We seem to have lost being professional starts with looking professional. The last few times I saw an in-ranks inspection I couldn't help but wonder, what are we doing? What do you look for when they all look like they just climbed out of a duffle bag? So why are we allowing Joe the rag man to be the standard and encouraging him to parade around off post and show the world how far we have sunk!

Response by SSgt Jon Pinkelman made Feb 6 at 2018 10:48 AM

2018-02-06T10:48:33-05:00

Why not ban all uniforms from off base. I mean really since we are inventing a problem to fix go all the way. Marines don’t wear MARPAT off post? Really, I see it all the time. It’s a uniform deal with it, but no now you have an office jockey making a problem where is doesn’t exist.

Response by Cpl Gerald Gowans made Feb 6 at 2018 11:40 AM

2018-02-06T11:40:17-05:00

When I was serving 1974 we didn't have Camouflage. However I think wearing them daily on base is a good idea because you will keep them properly fit, learn to keep good military alignment, mean green CLEAN fighting machine. In other words if your not wearing them daily you won't get a good military routine and look Sharp! Like making your bed every day. As far as wearing them off base we were not allowed not even get gas ! PPPPPP. But I still remember those starched green utility's, spit shine boots everyday, shined brass looked like silver, perfectly placed chevrons, starched cover, marine emblems newly blackened. Clean shaved sharp as a tack, hard as nails, one word vocabulary " Kill " We probably should have been allowed to go out in town like that. It would have made citizens feel proud and secure. Now a days I see mostly Reserve and guard in their Camouflage, really not looking sharply put together. I'll bet that don't even make their bed lol

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 12:36 PM

2018-02-06T12:36:29-05:00

I find it funny how the Marines are pointed out, but keep in mind it is a department of the Navy directive that we do not wear working uniforms out in town, with the exception of quick stops to pick up dinner or something simple. I agree, it should be all services as this is do to security, not professionalism. To me it males since. Why create a bigger more obvious target then you already are.

Response by Jesse White made Feb 6 at 2018 1:51 PM

2018-02-06T13:51:46-05:00

I see it as an easy recruiting tool, civilians think they look badass why not use that to our advantage.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 3:10 PM

2018-02-06T15:10:00-05:00

All I can say is WTF! I think there are way more issue's the DOD should be focusing on then this bullshit! That uniform represents their branch of service and our military wears it with pride. Bad enough our military is paying for sex changes because they can't identify to their own sexuality. The military I served would have gave them a 3 in their PULHES yet here we are debating on DOD deciding when they can wear their camo. Lmao

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2018 5:43 PM

2018-02-06T17:43:44-05:00

I never wear mine outside the fence.

Response by Sgt Yvette Kallenberger Clifford made Feb 6 at 2018 8:01 PM

2018-02-06T20:01:55-05:00

Yes

Response by SGT Lisa Fields made Feb 6 at 2018 8:56 PM

2018-02-06T20:56:52-05:00

This is a non issue you inventing problems to fit into your personal taste.

Army regs already address the locations and restrictions of wear of the duty uniform.

Class A wear outside the Pentagon or for officers and senior enlisted is asinine.
E7 and below have shit to do. I honestly don't give two fucks what the guys at CORPS wear cause guess what I ain't going to see them.

For the majority of the army even your s shop paper pushers life is random. At any moment a hey you will see those personal in the motor pool or on a dirty detail.

Having worked in drill and ceremony unit where on any given day I would be changing between duty, dress, or and utility uniforms multiple times
I can tell you its fucking stupid idea to enforce that requirement on the RA.

Response by 1stSgt Rodney Mathis made Feb 6 at 2018 9:19 PM

2018-02-06T21:19:43-05:00

Should we ban the cops from wearing theirs?

Response by Cpl Tim Frey made Feb 6 at 2018 11:17 PM

2018-02-06T23:17:01-05:00

If we banned cammies, it would be alot easier to call out these stolen valor fucktards.

Response by SrA Robert Hubbard made Feb 7 at 2018 2:28 AM

2018-02-07T02:28:27-05:00

It doesnt matter to me one way or the other. But, I'm also reminded of the saying, "I'd rather have it than not need it, than need it and not have it" in this situation, if a SHTF moment happens, mobility, functionality, and such, your dress uniform isn't going to provide you with those options the way a BDU/ACU/camo would. The shoes, the shirt pin straps, the coat/jacket all limit movement and functionality. A BDU uniform actually has pockets that you can put things in like gauze, small med kits, etc. A dress uniform on the other hand with its fake pockets isn't giving that to ya. That's my over argument

Response by SPC Mike Lake made Feb 7 at 2018 8:38 AM

2018-02-07T08:38:05-05:00

I think it's fine where you going home and you getting milk for your wife or something but not going out to the bars and hanging out at the malls

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 9:38 AM

2018-02-07T09:38:56-05:00

I agree... kind of. If you are like me, I spend almost every single day in the MP. Im not a mechanic, I'm an Infantryman. Maintenance in the heavy world is all the COC care about. So to be in anything else other than my OCP/ACU is in practical. Now then, if we are on CQ/SD, or some other detail that does not require much physical labor then I think neing in classA/bs would be suitable.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 10:16 AM

2018-02-07T10:16:46-05:00

Is this a rule for the sake of there being a rule? A uniform is only such when there is an identifier for a service component,
(US Army, etc.) otherwise it is just camouflage clothing. If this is a rule for Servicemembers, I can see justification because of security risks, but for the rest of the population, I give a resounding "NO".

Response by CDR Mick Rankin made Feb 7 at 2018 1:26 PM

2018-02-07T13:26:34-05:00

I agree with COL Grierson, it has been around before, loooong before. The problem is the genie is out of the bottle and it has been allowed so trying to go back would be a huge issue. Then comes the question of what constitutes "dirty" work and who gets to make that decision. That said, I am a big proponent of working uniform on base only. It is not a matter of clean crisp appearance, it is a culture of pride in uniform appearance. The Marines have it and have not waned on it. All the other services have allowed a working uniform off base and it has become part of the culture.

Response by SSgt Gerald Davis Jr made Feb 7 at 2018 6:30 PM

2018-02-07T18:30:47-05:00

The rule was, no utilities off base, no trourers with patch pockets (ie Levis), shirts must have a collar. You represent your Service and should be better than civilians.

Response by PO3 Joel Henderson made Feb 7 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-02-07T19:34:17-05:00

I say let them, even encourage them. Look combat ready constantly. There is a reason police wear uniforms and try to be visible, it's a crime deterrent. I see the same effect on potential enemies of the state; visibility is a deterrent. Those of us that joined understand that for you time active there is no actual time that is yours, that you can be called to action at any time. Why not be a reminder that we are not a country of targets, but rather a country that will take yours away if you cross us? Wear 'em!

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Feb 7 at 2018 7:54 PM

2018-02-07T19:54:24-05:00

I don't know how it is in other branches, but there's always some Army personel that choose to live off post, have business to take care of outside of post during lunch, etc. I certainly would be pissed if I went off post for 10 minutes to make a payment on an item I purchased from a local store and got wrote up for it!

Response by SFC (Ret) Riley Snell made Feb 7 at 2018 9:12 PM

2018-02-07T21:12:17-05:00

If OPSEC is your goal then the same policies you have for uniforms should also be required for POVs because there is no difference from being in uniform and someone seeing your uniform and qualifications all over your vehicle

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 9:50 PM

2018-02-07T21:50:48-05:00

I believe back in the 60’s and early 70’s it was not allowed

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 11:39 AM

2018-02-08T11:39:13-05:00

Why do you need to wear your utility uniform out in town anywhere anyway. Theres literally no point unless youre out looking for thank you's and discounts. Marines aren't allowed to already, but its never majorly inconvenienced me, just change. Civilian clothes are more comftorable anyway and you draw less attention to yourself, utilities are a working uniform, not libo attire.

Response by SGM Robin Johnson made Feb 8 at 2018 11:50 AM

2018-02-08T11:50:13-05:00

Maybe those who are so quick to say we shouldn't wear duty uniforms off post haven't been on active duty for a while. After a 10-16 hour work day, expecting Soldiers to drive home and change clothes before running errands or doing what they need to in town is ludicrous. As for those who talk about 'representing' the service, what in the world is wrong with representing it as we actually are? We WORK, and there is nothing wrong with our WORK uniforms. Even most civilians don't wear suits to work anymore, so those who want to put Soldiers in 'suits' (class A or B) unless they know in advance they will be doing manual labor... 1) you must have much more predictable days than some folks: 2) you must have done a lot of office/desk duty, because most of the force, even when not in the field, does work that has the potential to mess up their uniforms; 3) of you want to wear a suit to work every day, corporate America is out there waiting for you; and, most important, 4) there is nothing shameful about wearing the functional duty uniform which accurately represents what our service members do for a living. Why would the dressier uniforms be any better representation in the community? Professionalism is within the person, and displayed by how they carry themselves, and professional Soldiers actually wear duty uniforms. Putting on 'business' attire actually MISrepresents what most Soldiers do. Having Soldiers out in the community in their duty uniforms lets that community see the Soldiers as an integral part of it, and see that we take pride in the fact we work for a living.

If a Soldier looks like a rag bag, they will in any uniform; that's a discipline issue that needs to be fixed regardless. But I have never heard a civilian complain that Soldiers in duty uniforms look unprofessional, or poorly represent the service. If you are looking for walking recruiting posters, that is an unfair burden to place on the entire force when most are already carrying more than enough with the current optempo and staffing levels.

I think they are sending an accurate message. This is how we work, often late enough we have limited time, so we just stay in our duty uniform as we get things done. And if you are so concerned about style over substance, perhaps you shouldn't join the military.

Response by SGT Brian Lorkowski made Feb 8 at 2018 12:41 PM

2018-02-08T12:41:03-05:00

The field uniform is for the field. My opinion is for it to go back to the way it used to be. If you must say "Hey, look at me I'm in the military" wear your a's b's or blues off post.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Feb 8 at 2018 1:17 PM

2018-02-08T13:17:34-05:00

It should be left up to the local installation commander to determine the policy based on several factors. Not in favor of any uniform in bars. Daily wear of camos is over done.

Response by PO1 Mike Dean made Feb 8 at 2018 3:46 PM

2018-02-08T15:46:17-05:00

In a nutshell.... NO! I have a LOT of experience in this area. When I first enlisted, we were not allowed on/off the base unless in the "uniform of the day", being whites or blues. Nor were we allowed civilian clothes onboard. There were locker clubs off base where we kept civvies. Along came regulations that allowed the "working uniform" (dungarees) to and from off-base residences. Give a sailor an inch and he will take a mile. We almost lost the privilege when some dirty and paint-spattered started showing up at local markets and other places off base. YES, we heard the message loud and clear.... clean up you act or suffer the consequences. There is absolutely nothing wrong with wearing a work uniform off base as long as it's clean and presentable, whether is BDU, dungarees, flight suits, or whatever.

Response by 1LT Rich Voss made Feb 8 at 2018 4:48 PM

2018-02-08T16:48:11-05:00

I'm going to read the responses, as I haven't worn any type of uniform (except to try them on to see if they still fit...and I've got at least one of everything) since my final separation in '75. I see servicemen and women in camo here (Evanston,IL) all the time. I also see them in other levels of attire, and it seems that it's based on where they're going or where they've been. The Naval Training Station is not too far away, there are recruiting offices, and there's that big Ivy League school right up the street from me. I stop and talk to some of them, but it's not my business, even as a former officer, to "bust someone's chops" about what they're wearing and why. I DID, however, make the mistake myself of wearing my winter fatigue uniform as a new draftee ONCE while shopping at a mall between Basic and AIT during Christmas of '66. Some guy, possibly a Marine Korean War Vet, dressed in civies with his family, reamed me up one side and down the other for dressing that way. Never happened again ! ! !

Response by MSgt George Cater made Feb 8 at 2018 5:54 PM

2018-02-08T17:54:18-05:00

YES, AFFIRMATIVE, SI, DA, OUI, etc, etc..... The sad devolution of thought in the Army, Navy, Air Force that allows the wear of the combat/field uniform off base for non-duty wear is indicative of the pervasive dumbing down of standards in general society.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Feb 8 at 2018 8:39 PM

2018-02-08T20:39:33-05:00

OK, I can remember, and some of you other old timers can too, when what you're suggesting was a big deal. Soldier would get in trouble for doing anything other than stopping for gas in uniform. Frankly, I remember it was too strict, too inconvenient, too much of a hassle, and too much of a bother for the command. I liked the more relaxed attitude about uniforms off post.

Response by PO1 Glen Cook made Feb 8 at 2018 10:28 PM

2018-02-08T22:28:30-05:00

Except for base facilities...

Response by CMDCM Michael Weyrauch made Feb 8 at 2018 10:46 PM

2018-02-08T22:46:40-05:00

Response by PV2 Thomas Hemminger made Feb 9 at 2018 9:12 AM

2018-02-09T09:12:55-05:00

I was just thinking about this when traveling in the Pacific NW recently. Didn’t see anyone in BDU’s, but saw plenty of service members, and DOD personnel too, which was neat. All wearing civies, which is fine. New service members were traveling back after holidays with families. It made me think of something my late USAF veteran father-in-law said once, which was when he was in the service (Vietnam era) whenever traveling to or from the base, all personnel wore their Class A’s. He said it looked professional and clean-cut. I love that man, still today after saying goodbye nine years ago.

Have we indeed lost something in the military community?

Response by SSgt Albert Childress made Feb 9 at 2018 10:37 AM

2018-02-09T10:37:11-05:00

No. My uniform of the day was the BDU and I lived off base. I put on uniform before going to work, and, at end of the day, went home in my BDU's. Oh, I worked in BDU's since I was military police. So, like some on here, as well as in past commens, one should change into Class A's before leaving home, or before leaving the base. Sounds like a bunch of Navy and Marines whining as usual.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 2:13 PM

2018-02-09T14:13:02-05:00

Actually my only problem with the real Military wearing camouflage uniforms off of Military installations is it’s hard to distinguish between the wannabes and the authentic troops. I see dudes at the VA wandering around all the time in full camouflage, with rank and insignias. Most of them look like they just crawled out a sewer. When I see a real Military man or woman in camouflage, they look professional and sharp. Same goes for public places. IMHO

Response by SPC Vincenzo Lettieri made Feb 9 at 2018 4:21 PM

2018-02-09T16:21:18-05:00

I always made it a point not to loiter in them, but as I was married, I always lived off-post. Sometimes you're just beat after a long day and the wifey needs you to hit up the grocery store on your way home. I see no harm in that as long as you don't look like a soup sandwich. I suppose you could just bag some civies and change in the car, but I guess the question is, why?

Would it be against the reg to drive home in your ACUs even if you don't intend to leave your car? What about being seen in traffic? As has been stated before, its pretty easy to pick out a soldier even if he's not in uniform, so now it becomes about appearance. Frankly, I think civilians are impressed when they see a servicemember in uniform. Where I live now, I see a lot of airmen out doing errands, and it's never bothered me. I guess I just don't see the issue.

Response by Sgt William Moody made Feb 9 at 2018 4:53 PM

2018-02-09T16:53:08-05:00

Yes. Be proud of your service affiliation and show it with your proper uniform. Camo is NOT the uniform of the day when outside military installations. It is a WORK uniform and should be worn when working. It is extremely difficult to differentiate the branch of service in camo' until you're close enough to see rank insignia on the collar.

Response by MSgt Angie Alexander made Feb 9 at 2018 6:21 PM

2018-02-09T18:21:00-05:00

My personal opinion is that we should be able to wear ABUs etc because we are in the military. To me when we wear the dress uniform we look like flight attendants. On any given moment you can get dirty then everyone will be too worried about ruining their dress uniform. If there is no threat that you are not allowed to wear the uniform off base who cares where you go.

Response by CWO4 Steven Strehle made Feb 9 at 2018 8:23 PM

2018-02-09T20:23:02-05:00

What I want to know is why does the Navy need camouflage on a ship? Who are they hiding from, their Chief?

Response by 1SG F Raymond made Feb 9 at 2018 8:36 PM

2018-02-09T20:36:57-05:00

As long as the uniform is worn properly and a professional image is portrayed, there is no problem.

Response by CPO Lyle Brewer made Feb 9 at 2018 10:56 PM

2018-02-09T22:56:17-05:00

Navy had a ban on off base wear many years. Couldn’t wear it off base for many years. Eventually let us wear it to and from the base. Couldn’t drop your kid off at daycare in working uniform. Couldn’t fill your car with gas. Finally they relented and allowed personnel to make some basic stops on the way to and from the base. In my opinion, The “working uniform” is not for tasks like painting or crawling through greasy, oily bilges, organization clothing (coveralls) was and should be provided for those tasks. Ultimately, some Senior NCO’s or Chief’s need to show some leadership and address the issue of what is appropriate off-base. Just my 2 cents. CPO (ret)

Response by SPC Casey Ashfield made Feb 9 at 2018 11:18 PM

2018-02-09T23:18:20-05:00

Banned? No. Although I do believe wearing military uniforms off post should be discouraged. Whenever possible, I avoided wearing my uniform in public. And now in my civilian job I do the same. One of my first military instructors was a Green Beret with plenty of time spent in places that did and did not make the news. He spent several weeks how to not make ourselves targets among civilians. Knowing how to act like a civilian in public was lesson 1.

Response by CW3 Robert Haffly made Feb 10 at 2018 7:40 AM

2018-02-10T07:40:13-05:00

Be hard to police that policy. Especially with all the guard and reserve units. Their members travel to and from their units in the uniform designated for that weekend or annual training. Plus, most units no longer have dining facilities and have to go somewhere to eat lunch and they don't have time to change into civvies for that. On top of that, there are a LOT of other organizations that wear the camouflage uniforms (i.e. civil air patrol, police units, hell even some boy scouts). And what would you do with veterans who occasionally wear theirs?

Response by PO2 Hank Kaczmarek made Feb 10 at 2018 11:25 AM

2018-02-10T11:25:05-05:00

While I was with the Marines, there was a NO CAMMIES OFF BASE RULE. If In your car, fine. NO stopping for gas or groceries though. Get caught? It's a Problem (Mid-80's) I got busted by an MP picking up my car from the dealer after service. He let me go b/c like most Jarheads, they have a soft spot for their Corpsmen. But I got an earful.
I believe that in Garrison, office POG's should be in Class B or C. When they go to the field, then wear them. Nobody needs to be sitting at a desk "in the rear, with the gear" in camo. I also believe guys who do dirty greasy jobs like working on tanks and trucks should NOT have to wear Camo on base. They should be allowed to wear a suitable coverall with rank on the collar points. Cammies are expensive and they mess theirs up fast.

Response by SP5 Larry Morris made Feb 10 at 2018 1:47 PM

2018-02-10T13:47:47-05:00

Please you aren't really that dumb

Response by PV2 George Morse made Feb 10 at 2018 3:34 PM

2018-02-10T15:34:47-05:00

I have felt a lack of self discipline in the military has shrunk dramatically since I left. No polish in boots no pressing the BDU. No starched hat. Was stationed in Virginia dealt with high ranks around the Washington area the respect you get with the SHARP polished boots I had to spend 2 hours on one boot a night to make them sparkle in the dark. The fact that the uniform changed seems to have lessened the pride in the uniform. Ah... just throw it on im gonna be ok. Never flew when i was in the army..

Response by PV2 George Morse made Feb 10 at 2018 3:40 PM

2018-02-10T15:40:28-05:00

REALLY HOW DO YOU WANT TO APPEAR IN FRONT OF POTUS.... THIS IS HOW YOU SHOULD TRY TO LOOK FOR EVERYONE ELSE. SHOW THE PRIDE

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 4:43 PM

2018-02-10T16:43:06-05:00

I don't believe the military is a professional organization in the first place there should be different uniforms MOS specific whatever will help you get the job done better. As far as professionalism we have all walks of life all people act different at work than they do at home it's never going to look professional on the military. And we don't need any form of formal uniform. I could give 2 shits what you have earned just step up and be a good leader. People out here thinking we only joined to kill people legally and think we parade around and flaunt the fact that we kill people.

Response by SGT Paul Stokes made Feb 10 at 2018 5:31 PM

2018-02-10T17:31:09-05:00

We were never allowed to wear BDU’s off post in the 80’s. What changed?

Response by CPT Derial Bivens made Feb 10 at 2018 6:19 PM

2018-02-10T18:19:42-05:00

Back in the day, we weren't allowed to wear fatigues (and later, BDUs) off post. If you wore a uniform off post, it was khakis or dress greens. Period. Sure, folks that lived off post were allowed to wear fatigues/BDUs back and forth to work, but they were limited to stopping for gas, a loaf of bread, etc. You couldn't go shopping and you damn sure didn't go out to eat or out drinking in uniform unless you were in Class As or Bs. Service members that worked in an office our dealt with the public in any way also wore Class As or Bs as their normal duty uniform.

Response by SGT Thomas Mitchell made Feb 10 at 2018 7:49 PM

2018-02-10T19:49:42-05:00

During my period of service, BDU's were considered field uniforms and if I remember correctly, we were advised to either wear a class B uniform or civilian clothes for off post trips.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 10:48 PM

2018-02-10T22:48:40-05:00

If you wear the uniform well, you should be able to wear it to certain places. Places like stores, restaurants, and when you come home the first time.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Feb 11 at 2018 8:22 AM

2018-02-11T08:22:04-05:00

May be if I explain it this way the work uniform being worn off post was mostly a civilian thing, requested because certain SM's forgot that respect for other people is a big part of how the Military is envisioned. The Civilians did not want Your greasy, oily, dusty, sweat through, half and Half worn uniforms, in the establishment they owned because of liability and complaints from other customers. Hence the request to Commanders of Military bases for help, once this happened Commanders made it an easy ( NO Brain) choice and said no work uniforms off post. The rest was escalated every other leader wanting to make sure they did not have a Soldier in violation of the order. Work and PT Uniforms have no Reason to be worn Off post with only certain exceptions. IMHO

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 8:40 AM

2018-02-11T08:40:48-05:00

I don't know if it should be a ban DoD wide, but it's almost embarrassing to me to see service members in cammies just walking around town. Especially when I go back home on leave, there's no base within hours of our town. If I see you out in your cammies, I know you put those on specifically to go have lunch at Bob Evans and hope someone will comment on your service. I do wish there were times we could wear ours out in town, like when I'm driving home after work and need to stop at the bank or get gas.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 10:02 AM

2018-02-11T10:02:02-05:00

Simple answer... No..!! This is getting ridiculous.

Response by SPC Jonathan Bettandorff made Feb 11 at 2018 11:46 AM

2018-02-11T11:46:31-05:00

Wish I grow in the old days... fatigue were for training while dress uniform was to wear in public on your weekend pass... didn’t have to worrying about terrorist or etc.... hell military use to do it while overseas in theaters battle uniform in field while on leave or pass you wore your dress uniform...
World has changed now we are more worried about who we would offend more instead showing we are a proud nation with a proud military what happened

Response by LTC Conan Miller made Feb 11 at 2018 1:19 PM

2018-02-11T13:19:36-05:00

As an observation from a long retired Soldier who by policy long ago did not wear BDU’s off base. Exception being driving to / from or other short conscience stops (gas?)!
Secondly as a Volunteer in our local Airport USO... I have seen a number of BDU attired Soldiers/ Marines, etc passing through and moving about CONUS. I cannot remember seeing a single service member in Class A! That in itself is sad that outside of haircut or with a ruck most civilians know little of those passing among them in animosity while wearing civilian attire! They are the 1% but no one sees them! Wear the Class A and be damned proud of it!

Response by Chris Cornwall made Feb 11 at 2018 1:30 PM

2018-02-11T13:30:13-05:00

As long we pay taxes on these uniforms then I think our men and women should be able to wear their uniforms off base. That shows alot of pride in what in what they do. Why so much politics in the military???? Let the men and women that we pay for decide what they want to wear on or off base. Thank you all for what y'all do for us every day.

Response by SGT Rob Baker made Feb 11 at 2018 3:28 PM

2018-02-11T15:28:06-05:00

When I was in the military it wasn’t so bad... but since we have terrorist floating around our country it make you an easy target

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 4:58 PM

2018-02-11T16:58:03-05:00

I agree that there is really no reason to we're a utility uniform off post for anything more than getting gas on your way home. The exception being full timers in the guard, the national guard an reserve who do not necessarily have a post in which they work on but armories in the local communities. I think the dress uniform for what it's meant for an that is not office work or daily work in general. What we may need is a happy medium we're utility uniform is only worn for field and motorpool work and something professional and appropriate for other day to day work. You cannot hide that you are a soldier by general appearance standards but slacks, button up or polo collared shirt a belt an shoes which can be worn off post.

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2018 6:56 PM

2018-02-11T18:56:49-05:00

I don't know about anyone else, but my spouse didnt have civvies for the longest time. He wore either his PTs or his ACUs every day. It could be solved by issuing civilian clothes, I suppose. But how would someone enforce people not wearing their uniforms in a casual setting? And what would be the punishment?

Response by MGySgt Ronald Warfield made Feb 11 at 2018 9:52 PM

2018-02-11T21:52:49-05:00

When I was in active duty in the corps from 67 to 93 we were not allowed to where camo off base except to drive to and from work. I see no reason for that to have changed.

Response by LT Michael Hutson made Feb 12 at 2018 12:50 AM

2018-02-12T00:50:28-05:00

Yes

Response by CWO4 William Johnson made Feb 12 at 2018 6:26 AM

2018-02-12T06:26:56-05:00

The Marine Corp always ensures that there ALL of their uniforms are 4.0 when in public, cammie or not. Army, not so much. Navy, looks like they just crawled out of the bilge. Dirty, boots uncared for. Like some have no pride in their uniform. If it's not presentable, stay on the ship/base.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 10:19 AM

2018-02-12T10:19:16-05:00

At the end of the day, if the argument is that people look like shit in the uniform they use everyday, your logic is false.
1. There is a WHOLE AR about wear and appearance.
2. There is a serviceability date for all uniforms.
3. EVERYONE HAS A SUPERVISOR. START BEING ONE AND CORRECT YOUR PEOPLE!
4. MOST PEOPLE GET A DAMN CLOTHING ALLOWANCE. USE IT.
5. OFFICERS HAVE NO EXCUSE!

Rant over.

Response by LTC G. Paul Corbin made Feb 12 at 2018 12:23 PM

2018-02-12T12:23:28-05:00

National Guard and Reserves wear their camos to and from drill at local armories.

Response by SFC John Santoro made Feb 12 at 2018 2:15 PM

2018-02-12T14:15:40-05:00

There are circumstances that warrant the wear of the “camouflage uniform” off post/base. I do think the military as a whole should have a garrison uniform that is worn when not going to the field (Class A/B uniform for Army), but then there is the fact that if you are Infantry, artillery, or some similar field type Soldier, or work in the motor pool/aircraft mechanic, or similar field you just can’t wear a garrison uniform.

There needs

Response by PFC Misty Shelby Meyer made Feb 12 at 2018 8:22 PM

2018-02-12T20:22:47-05:00

Well my husband isn’t stationed on a military base. He has no choice but to wear his uniform to work and off post since he is a recruiter!

Response by Capt Karlos Nordinsifeller made Feb 12 at 2018 8:35 PM

2018-02-12T20:35:45-05:00

Yes. If you see me in cammies I’m working. Don’t salute me, don’t get in the way. I’m not getting Burger King, I’m stopping the LA riots. I’m not birdwatching, I’m interdicting drug smugglers. If I’m out on a lark I’ll be wearing civvies or representing my brothers and sisters in a service or dress uniform. I wear cammies so you don’t see me.

Response by Cpl Samuel Doyle made Feb 12 at 2018 11:06 PM

2018-02-12T23:06:24-05:00

As a Marine and then a AGR National Guard Soldier I see both sides of this agreement. When I was on active duty (USMC) we could wear our "cammies" from base to home without getting out of the vehicle. Once in the National Guard BDU's then ACU's were allowed "off base", especially since we did not have a "base" per say. I enjoyed wearing my uniform to lunch, or the quick stop at the store because lots of times civilians in those towns rarely saw a soldier in uniform, any uniform, and they almost always appreciated my service. When my father was in the Corps, in the late 70's, he was not allowed to wear his utility uniform off base, even to drive home. I always thought that that policy was a little harsh, but I understood it was the policy of the day and was to be obeyed. Seeing military men and women out and about in their uniforms lets the civilian population know that they have the world's best looking out for them at all times. I say let's not get too carried away with this and have some lee way during duty hours, but that lee way stops after the duty day is over.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 11:42 PM

2018-02-12T23:42:11-05:00

I think off base lunch, and brief stops on the way to and from work should be allowed, and all that is allowed, which is pretty much the current policy on the NWU. It is not a liberty uniform. And don't look like a bag of ass when you do it.

Response by SSgt Kenneth Jones made Feb 13 at 2018 2:40 AM

2018-02-13T02:40:27-05:00

It was always the policy that one never wore the fatigues/BDUsoff base unless he or she was going to or from base to his or her residence. Has that changed? I have seldom seen anyone wearing the service uniform since 9/11, an I assume there's a good reason for that. Correct?

Response by GySgt Paul Cruz made Feb 13 at 2018 9:14 AM

2018-02-13T09:14:39-05:00

Yes

Response by Cpl Kelly Anderson made Feb 13 at 2018 10:00 AM

2018-02-13T10:00:53-05:00

Had some good laugh's watching young Marine's try to skirt this rule out in town , nothing like a Gunny chewing on your rear end at some gas pumps.lol I occasionally visit Savannah and the problem i have with the Army allowing the Cammies off base is that I see soldiers at the malls or about town wearing them well past hours and some looking like chit. I believe most would be in some support role for the Ranger Battalion because the Rangers i've met and talked with have always been squared away.

Response by SPC Adam Mahan made Feb 13 at 2018 11:11 AM

2018-02-13T11:11:17-05:00

When I was in 1st Ranger Battalion, most of us HATED wearing our duty uniforms (pins and patches) off post, and would often change into civies if we were going off post to eat. Our field uniforms (sterile) were NOT to be worn off post, unless there was a legitimate reason to do so.

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Feb 13 at 2018 11:28 AM

2018-02-13T11:28:44-05:00

Interesting. While I can agree with the sentiment to some extent I cannot see it applying unless the individual has some sort of public behavioral issues.
People go shopping on the way home. I think that the newer camouflage patterns... whatever they are called..can be a bit intimidating to folks. They look sinister to me. Just an observation.
Of course I can’t help but like the looks of some of our lovely homegrown young ladies in the guard or even on active duty in camouflage uniforms..
Reminds me of “Lovely Rita meter maid.”
(Oh you nasty old man you!)

Response by SGT Randal English made Feb 13 at 2018 2:28 PM

2018-02-13T14:28:18-05:00

When I was in we wore OD Green fatigues. You didn't wear fatigues off post unless traveling to or from work. If you went off post and were off duty you wore class A's.

Response by MSG Lonnie Averkamp made Feb 13 at 2018 3:46 PM

2018-02-13T15:46:10-05:00

I must admit, when I see soldiers going through airports in ACU's, it makes me scratch my head. In the 1970's my unit flew, as a Company, from a Commercial Airport. Class A's and duffle bags were the Uniform of the Day. I feel that wearing a "field" uniform in public cheats the service member of an amount of pride and recognition that he/she has earned. Yes, it was a bit of a pain to insure that your uniform was pressed and brass was polished and ribbons & badges were properly mounted, but at least, you didn't look like "Joe the Rag Man" going through and airport.

Response by SSgt Billy Beavers made Feb 13 at 2018 5:06 PM

2018-02-13T17:06:38-05:00

When I was in the USAF, we were not allowed to wear "fatigues" off base. If we lived off base, you had to change into civvies, or dress uniform to be seen in public..I never thought about protesting, since they made the rules, & I followed them..

Response by Maj Robert Dudley made Feb 13 at 2018 6:38 PM

2018-02-13T18:38:39-05:00

Um, why? Honestly, seems like a silly question.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 7:07 PM

2018-02-13T19:07:04-05:00

Navy already has restrictions on when and where we wear camo. Black and tan service uniforms or dress uniforms as a general rule when we're in the public eye while uniformed.

Response by LTC Gary Bell made Feb 13 at 2018 9:17 PM

2018-02-13T21:17:24-05:00

Hell No! We did that in the 60’s and 70’s. It was a dumb idea then and is a dumb idea now. The general public gets a great view of our military members by seeing them in their work uniform.

Response by SPC Miguel Rosario Cruz made Feb 13 at 2018 9:59 PM

2018-02-13T21:59:18-05:00

they shuld bring back the bdu's with the black boots it was better looking soldiers

Response by CH (MAJ) John Stepp made Feb 13 at 2018 10:21 PM

2018-02-13T22:21:01-05:00

NO! Military members should be permitted to wear the uniform of the day to and from post; including stops to and from post.

Response by SPC Marie A Schappacher made Feb 14 at 2018 3:26 AM

2018-02-14T03:26:16-05:00

Wellllll has Agree not hanging in the “Ville” but to and from Work.... Maybe a Drive Through for Lunch.... or stopping to pick up Groceries On the way Home... Like the License plates, post Stickers, haircut/Hairstyle is not a dead Giveaway

Response by Sgt Bill Dowda made Feb 14 at 2018 8:55 AM

2018-02-14T08:55:29-05:00

It is a self initiated point of pride. Yes we are all proud to be in our respective branches; however, while security in public plays a role, perception does too. I know i do not want my family to be around some 'smelly dirty ' Lance Corporal or Private first class who has spent the last twenty hours buried in an engine away from their loved ones and doing what precious few either will not or can not do. While all of us have the basic needs and wants that all people do, it needs to be a point of pride. If you go out in public abide by your services' protocol. Or better yet advance high enough in pay grade, to where you set the standard and not be the example. The choice is yours.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 9:55 AM

2018-02-14T09:55:02-05:00

Ok look it is costly enough maintaining OCP's. Now you want joe to pay for and maintain the wear out of ASU's seriously???? This is stupid it is more cost effective to wear OCP/ACU's.

Response by SrA Chris Barrett made Feb 14 at 2018 12:35 PM

2018-02-14T12:35:44-05:00

USAF 1999-2003 was only allowed to to wear BDU off base if going on or off duty and making a quick stop, gas station or restaurant. Otherwise you should be wearing clothes that help you to blend in with your surroundings. You don't need to attract attention to yourself.

Response by SN Jay Perry made Feb 14 at 2018 1:18 PM

2018-02-14T13:18:21-05:00

This one has been around for decades, I was active USN in the 80's, and it was a question back then. Working uniforms were not allowed off base at NOB Norfolk, but this was not enforced. A new XO came on base (they are usually in charge of enforcing the CO's standing orders), and he literally started to turn around people entering/leaving base in Dungarees. It was amazing how many flight personnel would come aboard/exit every day (flight suits were exempt). It took a couple of weeks before things returned to the status quo. My second ship, you were not allowed to wear working uniforms off the ship for liberty. I lost the right to wear civvies off the ship due to some seabag problems, and I was not the only one right then. A lot of us would go 'for a run' in shorts and a t-shirt, and be allowed off the ship. I got my seabag problems fixed in about three weeks so it became a moot point. A neighboring army base outside Washington D.C., the commanding general would send his MP's out to local restaurants and shopping malls, and they would gig you is they caught you in a working uniform off base. There is certain practicality that has to be considered, if they are just driving back and forth, maybe, out for the evening NOT so much......

Response by MAJ William Roberts made Feb 14 at 2018 1:32 PM

2018-02-14T13:32:22-05:00

Let's just make them pink with the Navy idea of bell bottoms then no one will want to wear them off post anyway. We can just put on our Army COMBAT Uniform (ACU) when we go to combat. Pink camo is pretty popular anyway, we may just start a new fashion trend. Or you could read this response as, don't we have more important things to worry about.

Response by SPC Zam Iel made Feb 14 at 2018 2:56 PM

2018-02-14T14:56:49-05:00

Seems like an awful lot of people on here seem to think it's ok for Joe the plumber to run some errands in his uniform after he gets off work or while he's on his lunch break but it's not ok for those that serve to protect this great nation to be able to do the same. That's just ridiculous to me. If you aren't on duty that day if you haven't just completed your duty for the day then there is no reason to be in uniform but seriously people our military men and women are people too with just as much, if not more to get accomplished in one day. Focusing on things like this instead of how we can improve the quality of life for our men and women serving and our veterans is just insanity.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Feb 14 at 2018 4:00 PM

2018-02-14T16:00:37-05:00

Hell yes. It looks trashy.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 4:18 PM

2018-02-14T16:18:11-05:00

no... as a Commander I would pass any restrictions that inhibited the lives of my soldier unless absolutely necessary. The current regulations are enough and address proper times and place for uniforms.

Response by SFC Kenneth Still made Feb 14 at 2018 6:04 PM

2018-02-14T18:04:24-05:00

Yes, and I was in the army. They should only be worn to work or home. If you need gas stop and get it but don't linger around.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 6:40 PM

2018-02-14T18:40:53-05:00

No because those who work in the motorpool all day and don’t have the chance to go home and change still have other things to do and places to be before even getting back home.

Response by SSG Paul Carrier made Feb 14 at 2018 8:14 PM

2018-02-14T20:14:59-05:00

So all those who live off an installation now have to travel early and must have a place to change before work ?
I'd hazard most installations don't have the facilities to handle the volume.
Seems a silly solution, one in search of a problem

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 9:09 PM

2018-02-14T21:09:32-05:00

Are you dumb? More than ever this country needs to know that military are present in every aspects you dumb ass officers are always trying to down play cammo off post

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 9:22 PM

2018-02-14T21:22:31-05:00

The fact that we have to waer NWU's in clinic mon-thur and then our service uniforms on Friday to see patients, Bleeding, sick, and anything else you can think of, patients is beuond me. In the field sure, but for taking care of a sick or injured kid, not necessary. Blood is easier and cheaper to get out of scrubs.

Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Feb 15 at 2018 7:57 AM

2018-02-15T07:57:16-05:00

Deleted

Response by CPO Sean Flaherty made Feb 15 at 2018 7:58 AM

2018-02-15T07:58:37-05:00

I may be dating myself, but when I was in, our work uniforms were dungarees. We couldn't wear them off base. We had CNT's and Johnny Cashes to wear. Now, the Navy has "Blueberries" and are in the midst of going to green camouflage. Still don't know why they need camo. Long post short answer, no they shouldn't be allowed to wear them off base.

Response by SGT Thomas Fisher made Feb 15 at 2018 9:03 AM

2018-02-15T09:03:16-05:00

Pin this solidly on those 9/11 era staff officers. I hated seeing BDUs off base. However, those were starched and boots shines so they often looked a lot better than the ACU "old used dufflebag" look. But as far as office workers in Class B, not sure I agree with that, but hey, I was enlisted so I wouldn't have ever made those rules.

Response by SFC Killo Serafin made Feb 15 at 2018 4:21 PM

2018-02-15T16:21:38-05:00

Why ! are DUMBOCRATS ! complaining again !

Response by SSG Robel Morgan made Feb 15 at 2018 4:39 PM

2018-02-15T16:39:29-05:00

But wasn't wearing the battle dress uniform or camouflage uniform worn off post to attract the younger crowd, a way of cheap advertisement?

Response by CW3 Rolland Vincent made Feb 15 at 2018 4:56 PM

2018-02-15T16:56:09-05:00

The utility uniform is just that. There is no reason to wear it off post. At the end of the duty day, change, stop where u need in civ dress. Otherwise u are 8n class B. U joined the svc, they did not join u. U conform to the stds, the svc is not there to make life/duty meet ur idea of making life easy, it is not there to make ur family happy. When i joined the army i expected and comply with a life style that was governed by rules/regulations that may not be what i liked. But it was my choice. Now people appear to exp3ct the svc to meet the family needs, the emotional needs, and not to have any responsibility to meet the svc need. Go back to formation, morn, noon, evening 6 days a week, dress inspection saturday and payday. God i would love to be able to go back.

Response by Liam Bernard made Feb 15 at 2018 5:46 PM

2018-02-15T17:46:50-05:00

Response by Sgt John Owen made Feb 15 at 2018 8:44 PM

2018-02-15T20:44:23-05:00

Yes that isn't a uniform to wear off post

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Feb 15 at 2018 9:36 PM

2018-02-15T21:36:55-05:00

Since cammies are the "uniform of the day" for almost all personnel - even if they have an office job I don't see the point in prohibiting off post wear.

Response by 1SG Ralph Hazlett made Feb 15 at 2018 9:59 PM

2018-02-15T21:59:21-05:00

It used to be that way...80's & 90's...

Response by Donna Johnson made Feb 15 at 2018 10:04 PM

2018-02-15T22:04:01-05:00

To know the true military from the fake

Response by MAJ Dean Thompson made Feb 16 at 2018 12:31 PM

2018-02-16T12:31:59-05:00

Yes. In the 70s we were allowed to drive off post in duty uniform, but forbidden to stop anywhere on the way home. U had to wear class A or B if u we're stopping somewhere.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2018 4:50 PM

2018-02-16T16:50:34-05:00

I would rather see a military member who's traveling (i.e., airport), to be in a class A uniform. It's the uniform the public should be viewing us in. Camouflage was developed for the field, base or combat for a reason. The Class A was worn off base decades ago but policy changed and now all you wear (seems like everywhere) is the ACU, BDU, NWU, etc- though every branch seems to have their own policies on that too! Be nice for all branches to agree on one policy and the public then see that "classier" uniform of all the branches when traveling

Response by Cpl Shawn Ashworth made Feb 17 at 2018 9:03 AM

2018-02-17T09:03:29-05:00

I agree a service member should not wear bdu outside of base unless its say to stop at gas station or maybe convenient store or something along those lines i also agree with a previous comment if u dont get dirty at ur job why not wear a dress uniform BDU's should be worn by a marine/soldier that has an MOS that causes them to get dirty and nasty

Response by SFC Brian Ratter made Feb 17 at 2018 9:19 AM

2018-02-17T09:19:40-05:00

Guess I'm old school, we could not wear body's to travel in, had to be dress greens, class B's or civilian clothes, most of the time work uniform was class B

Response by MAJ Edwin Webster made Feb 17 at 2018 9:51 AM

2018-02-17T09:51:37-05:00

Yes

Response by CW3 Robert Haffly made Feb 17 at 2018 6:11 PM

2018-02-17T18:11:57-05:00

When I was assigned to the RCPAC in Overland (St. Louis) Missouri; our Division Chief a LTC name of Loveless was driving into work and noticed a group of what he thought were soldiers wearing BDUs outside of a building without headgear on. He stopped and admonished them about looking "professional" or something similar. Their leader came out and told him to leave them alone, they didn't have headgear, they were in the Civil Air Patrol.

Response by Sgt Mike Jacobi made Feb 17 at 2018 7:18 PM

2018-02-17T19:18:52-05:00

my era required us to wear. class A or B off base and even minimum class b in the on base club and box. Fatigue uniform was for fatigue details or on the range or other designated detail. we always felt good when dressed well off base and were proud enough of ourselves and our branch to take the extra effort to spit shine boots and starch shirts and khakis.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2018 7:43 PM

2018-02-17T19:43:21-05:00

If the military is embarrassed by the uniform and thinks that they don't look professional, then why do they make us wear them? The navy is horrible about that. "Here is the new uniform that we want everyone to wear everyday, but we don't wasn't you to be seen wearing it" how can they expect is to take pride in a uniform that they are embarrassed by.

Response by SGT David Greth made Feb 17 at 2018 9:37 PM

2018-02-17T21:37:44-05:00

Back in the 80's & early 90's when I was in the Army, with the exception of stopping for gas or quick (I mean quick) shot into the grocery store for BDU's were NOT authorized for wear off post. Should have stayed with that!!!

Response by 2LT Brad Klopp made Feb 17 at 2018 9:59 PM

2018-02-17T21:59:45-05:00

My Son just hit the Fleet Marine Force. I was shocked to hear he was told to check in on Base in his Civi’s! What’s the purpose of having Chucks and deltas or even your alphas. To not authorize those uniforms for national travel and of base wear is a bad call. Military personnel are targets weather in uniform or not. Cammies/ BDUs ACUs off base for non essential duty NO. Dress Bravo, Deta, Charlie, Even Alpha for the Marines absolutely! Across the board for all branches. They are not protected simply by denying them the privilege and honor which is theirs, by ordering them to not wear their uniform.

Response by SGT John Salmon made Feb 18 at 2018 7:52 AM

2018-02-18T07:52:30-05:00

Need to worry about winning battles with a near peer enemy rather than worrying about which uniform to wear...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2018 7:59 AM

2018-02-18T07:59:45-05:00

Should you be worrying about something else than a military service member picking up Subway lunch off his/her base and their actual performance on base? This is as pointless as uniform code for rolling sleeves on garrison duty outside of deployment or booting people for having tattoos that have nothing to do with gang or extreme organization affiliation.

Response by 1SG Debbie Simpson made Feb 18 at 2018 10:18 AM

2018-02-18T10:18:45-05:00

No.

Response by SSgt Douglas King made Feb 18 at 2018 4:19 PM

2018-02-18T16:19:47-05:00

No. You have some of our troops that live of their bases/posts. Are you going to provide a extra clothing allowance for other attire to wear?

Response by Lt Col Bg Smith made Feb 18 at 2018 5:15 PM

2018-02-18T17:15:15-05:00

For over 30 years on active duty it was that way. You could wear them to and from work, for short stops, but not to the bar, not to the grocery store, etc....I know the rules changed, and they always do. The brass will decide what they decide.

Response by PO1 Terry Zech made Feb 18 at 2018 6:24 PM

2018-02-18T18:24:47-05:00

No ban. I was proud to wear my uniform outside the base. We need to instill pride in our people and children again.

Response by LCpl Allen Luze made Feb 18 at 2018 6:55 PM

2018-02-18T18:55:19-05:00

In the late 70's, the higher ups were more worried about public perception in the post Vietnam era. Every couple of months a new rule would come down, such as NO uniforms off base except on official businesses, then it was class A's only, then it was any uniform but only one your personal vehicle and you weren't allowed to stop anywhere, and then different variations of those. My problem was that because I worked 24 hours on, 48 hours off and my work site was in the field so O was always in BDU's. Since my shifts started and ended at 8 am and the enlisted barracks were closed from 8 am to noon for inspection, I was allowed to live off base. My vehicle was a motorcycle so I always had to carry civvies for whenever they changed their minds

Response by CPT Tom Monahan made Feb 18 at 2018 7:26 PM

2018-02-18T19:26:03-05:00

Will DoD provide on base housing for all? Then yes. If not no.

Response by CW4 Rodney Burnett made Feb 18 at 2018 9:41 PM

2018-02-18T21:41:30-05:00

Is there any point to this argument? We were always told it was ok to have your fatigues on if you were stopping on your way home. Other than that why would you even WANT to wear camo off post? As far as if you aren't in the field you should wear A's or B's goes.....BS, military dress uniforms are uncomfortable as shit, I couldn't possibly get any work done if I had to wear that crap every day when I had a staff job. Plus, I believe a soldier should always be ready to kick some ass and there will be no ass kicking in dress uniforms.

Response by 1SG Milton Jackson made Feb 18 at 2018 10:51 PM

2018-02-18T22:51:27-05:00

I’m in favor of wearing the uniform of post only on special occasions

Response by SFC Don Ahl made Feb 19 at 2018 9:25 AM

2018-02-19T09:25:53-05:00

No it’s a part of their work uniform so let them wear why change they still look professional it part of our way of living and part or way of work everyday

Response by A1C Robert Babcock made Feb 19 at 2018 10:26 AM

2018-02-19T10:26:48-05:00

I really don't think we need to add more dry cleaning expenses for our day to day. Let them be comfortable. We never wore BDUs off base unless we were already in them, but we shouldn't have to change just to step outside the gates.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 19 at 2018 11:08 AM

2018-02-19T11:08:55-05:00

Back after the great Iraqi incursion Soldiers wore camo off post at their own risk...not so much love back then.

Response by TSgt Gary Neville made Feb 19 at 2018 12:59 PM

2018-02-19T12:59:32-05:00

Yes

Response by LCpl Richard Brennan made Feb 19 at 2018 3:51 PM

2018-02-19T15:51:01-05:00

Service uniform for everything but field training and work parties. In 1955/56 1stMarDiv dressed for dinner every night. In from the field, quick shower, into greens or khakis for evening mess. Off the base either service uniform or civvies. The civvies were slacks and sport shirts - no jeans, tees or sneakers.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 19 at 2018 4:23 PM

2018-02-19T16:23:38-05:00

I beleive the camouflage uniform should be worn around town. How you seen how some of these members look? Lack of cover, no blousing straps and uniforms just looking like trash. Why would you wear you working uniform to the court house? You just look guilty. I beleive wear off base should be limited. I mean the officers cannot even dress them selves correctly how are the enlisted going to.
I also it should be standard across all branches not just each one.
Just because we fight in it, we still represent our country and branch of service. We need to look sharp all the time.
That is my feelings about. Don't be mad.

Response by LCpl Justin Alexandrea made Feb 19 at 2018 9:18 PM

2018-02-19T21:18:52-05:00

The USMC bans the ability of wearing the BDU outside of base, because Marines are a known terrorist target.
The EGA is seen by islamic jihadists, and other "haters" as a symbol of western oppression, and thus Marines are considered as always being in danger of attack if identified by the uniforms.

Response by Cpl Armando Guevara made Feb 19 at 2018 11:36 PM

2018-02-19T23:36:24-05:00

Yes. Semper Fi.

Response by SPC William Smith made Feb 19 at 2018 11:43 PM

2018-02-19T23:43:07-05:00

We couldn't go out the gate after duty hours unless we were dressed in "civvies", unless you were still on duty(ie: driver for guards,etc.), or going from one installation to the other. That included issue shoes, boots, and field jackets.

Response by SSG Eddye Royal made Feb 19 at 2018 11:56 PM

2018-02-19T23:56:59-05:00

I have no problem with it, it depends on the base that the soldier is located, regulations have changed again in few years.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2018 1:35 AM

2018-02-20T01:35:20-05:00

The wear of the uniform of any type should not be authorized off installation. It has been against regulation to wear the uniform off base in Europe for years.Its a security issue.

Response by PO2 Mike Wyatt made Feb 20 at 2018 8:27 AM

2018-02-20T08:27:26-05:00

As a US Navy Seabee 82-92 we we're not allowed to go into public places in greens. You could get out to pump gas into your car and that was it.

Response by SGT John Jump made Feb 20 at 2018 12:02 PM

2018-02-20T12:02:23-05:00

Time to bring back wearing class a and b uniforms

Response by SrA James Cannon made Feb 20 at 2018 1:39 PM

2018-02-20T13:39:22-05:00

In my opinion, no. I understand that the Marine Corps has a culture of no BDUs off base, but that is their culture. If they want to apply that policy to their people, then so be it. Don't try to force your culture upon the rest of the military. The Army and Air Force do allow their people to wear BDUs off base. I think it should stay that way. When I was on active duty, we were told that we could wear BDUs off base, and out to eat, as long as the eating establishment was one in which "working class" people normally frequent. Any restaurants that were fancier than that would require wearing of a dress uniform or civilian clothes.

Response by PFC Ben Martinez made Feb 20 at 2018 5:03 PM

2018-02-20T17:03:31-05:00

It is more convenient so as not to have to change clothes in order to go off post. However during my time in service we were forbiden from wearing bdu's off post and the reason was simple. They are called Battle dress uniforms and while in them we were to be considered under arms. In the public eye it makes sense.

Response by CPT William Jones made Feb 20 at 2018 5:39 PM

2018-02-20T17:39:56-05:00

IN my era 60-70's fatigues were not to be worn around town. a quick stop for bread and milk at stop&rob was ok for that otherwise you wore Class B or A. That should also be uniform for soldiers working in office all day. Looks much more professional. I worked in civilian Civil Engineer firm after active duty over. draftmen and that type wore slacks and collared shirt. Engineers etc wore a suit unless going to field.

Response by Cpl Wendell Harlow made Feb 20 at 2018 11:01 PM

2018-02-20T23:01:53-05:00

The utility uniform should be reserved for on base and in the field exclusively, in my humble opinion.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 20 at 2018 11:06 PM

2018-02-20T23:06:49-05:00

Gee, I wonder what he wears to work?

Response by PO1 Mícheál Williams made Feb 20 at 2018 11:13 PM

2018-02-20T23:13:36-05:00

And the National Guard is out there recruiting in ACUs! I do not get it. Now the Navy is wearing the ocean camp. ::smh::

Response by CPL Rick Martinz made Feb 20 at 2018 11:46 PM

2018-02-20T23:46:07-05:00

Yea, I can see infantrymen wearing class A's in garrison, maybe non infantrymen,but as far as an infantryman soldier, no! Believe me when I was in I didn't go to town or malls in uniform! Hell most of us were ready to get out of our bdu's/acu's! And yes us infantrymen always had our sleeves rolled down, we didn't have sleeves rolled up like some others to look cool, etc...

Response by Sgt Kevin Curl made Feb 21 at 2018 1:00 AM

2018-02-21T01:00:22-05:00

Isn't already a ban in Marine Corps ? Was when I served .

Response by MGySgt Paul Mattoon made Feb 21 at 2018 6:39 AM

2018-02-21T06:39:12-05:00

As a Marine, all I care about is the Marine Corps. Appearance reinforces behavior. Consistency between competence and appearance is real. We not only represent ourselves and other Marines, but all who've gone before us. The other services aren't blessed with this mindset, so they do what they will.

Response by CW2 Bruce Rodewald made Feb 21 at 2018 8:57 AM

2018-02-21T08:57:49-05:00

Well the Army changed and eliminated some uniforms and that leaves the options closed. The Army used to have fatiques (bdu), khakis or tw's, a Class A, and dress blues. So now what do they have?

Response by CPL Jeff Tappan made Feb 21 at 2018 8:02 PM

2018-02-21T20:02:45-05:00

Then, if BDUs/ ACUs are strictly for field use, shouldn't AR 670-1 should have an addemdum that spells this out clearly?

Response by Michael Horne made Feb 21 at 2018 8:34 PM

2018-02-21T20:34:20-05:00

Our recruiting office is in our local mall. I would want to hear the rationale for making such a decision.

Response by GySgt Rhonda Hart made Feb 21 at 2018 10:30 PM

2018-02-21T22:30:55-05:00

Yep.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 21 at 2018 11:15 PM

2018-02-21T23:15:12-05:00

I’ve only been in the Army for a year and 4 months or so and I can say myself that taking the time to stop by the barracks or house, whichever you live in, is just needless. If you’re just going to get a bite of food or going to whatever store and coming back then why bother taking your duties off. Now if you’re going out for an extended period of time or you’re going to a friends house or whatever the situation may be then definitely take them off and change into civis. As far as traveling goes I myself have been told many times to only wear civis. Even then I have people that come up to me and ask if I’m in the Army or they just assume correctly and go ahead thank me for my service(which I think is unnecessary Bc it just singles me out in a crowd). Anyways people can and will recognize military personnel whether they’re in civis or duties or whatever uniform it may be. Just like one comment I read on here already....they know us by our hair cuts, our tattoos, our “swag”, and many other obvious giveaways such as stickers on a car or whatever.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 21 at 2018 11:35 PM

2018-02-21T23:35:30-05:00

When I was in the Air Force, that was the way it was supposed to be, you weren't supposed to be in uniform when going to places to shop and such. That was pre-9/11.

Response by Sgt Cesario Briseno made Feb 22 at 2018 7:07 AM

2018-02-22T07:07:10-05:00

USAF 66/70. We were never allowed to wear utilities off base. The only time that was allowed was if you lived off base and going home and going to work. If we went off base we had to wear class A, B or civilian clothes. I don't know when this changed but I did see a lot of GI's wearing utilities after 9/11/01. In Vietnam of course we wore jungle fatigues everywhere, but that was in a war. In the PI and S. Korea, only class A or B off base. Travel in class A or B only.

Response by 1stSgt Harvey Troutman made Feb 22 at 2018 4:02 PM

2018-02-22T16:02:29-05:00

Back when I first join the army if you caught downtown in your fatigues you were reported to your company commander and first sergeant by the courtesy patrol. I even got lecture to at the laundromat for wearing my banana suit (back in the day PT suit).

Response by SFC Mamerto Perez made Feb 22 at 2018 6:04 PM

2018-02-22T18:04:22-05:00

Yes, they look very unproffessional

Response by PO2 Larry Denney made Feb 23 at 2018 12:38 AM

2018-02-23T00:38:17-05:00

Yes plus military patterns not be available to the general pubic. We have camo patterns available to hunters that adopt to a variety of different areas and aeaaons.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2018 1:02 AM

2018-02-23T01:02:36-05:00

As an old retired guy, In the 80's and 90's you could only wear BDU/Cammies off post if you were stopping to get gas, or a short stop on your way to or from base/post. Dress uniform were worn by Recruiters or if attending a special event. Field MOS's daily uniforms were BDU/Cammies, office or administration MOS's wore Class B's or Class C's. But back to the original question. Go back to the older days.

Response by LTC Jeff Shearer made Feb 23 at 2018 7:16 AM

2018-02-23T07:16:57-05:00

Perry my thought is pretty simple: I think if you are a Combat Arms guy and that is what you wear every day anyway, you should be able to wear them off post. Odds are you your car may need some fuel on your way home. I would say it is a common sense thing, don't go to the bar, or disco but that is what you work in. Now if you are going out to a special dinner with the wife and family after work, take a few minutes and change.

I think it is kind of a common sense thing.

Response by 1SG Marc Jensen made Feb 23 at 2018 9:10 AM

2018-02-23T09:10:10-05:00

Response by SFC Brian Davenport made Feb 23 at 2018 9:34 AM

2018-02-23T09:34:59-05:00

Back in olden times (I retired in 1996) you could not go shopping nor eat in a restaurant. You could stop and get fuel or after work on your way home, if you lived off post, you could stop at a convenience store to get some milk or something. Quick in, quick out. There were courtesy patrols who corrected you if you didn’t follow the rules. When I attended language school in 1967, we wore class A uniform every day. When I went back in 1981, we wore camo.

Response by 1stSgt Nelson Kerr made Feb 23 at 2018 1:48 PM

2018-02-23T13:48:08-05:00

Why? Doing things for no reason is usually a bad policy.

Response by SPC Curt Moore made Feb 23 at 2018 2:08 PM

2018-02-23T14:08:52-05:00

yep

Response by MSgt Dale Johnson made Feb 23 at 2018 2:39 PM

2018-02-23T14:39:54-05:00

In any Utility Uniform a quick stop for gas, or milk and eggs at the grocery, no big deal, nothing else. I always went above and beyond, I believed in presenting a Positive image to anyone that would see me, especially Civilian types and I don't believe the Utility Uniform does that.

I understand once a month having everyone in an Non-Normal uniform to ensure they keep all their uniforms in shape. Office personnel should be in a Utility Uniform, those whose primary uniform is the Utility should wear Class A or B to some other unit function. Keeps everyone on their toes.

Slightly off subject, but as an upper ranking NCO I believed I did not have the right to chastise any of my troops if I was not 100 percent squared away. Top to bottom I tried to make sure everything was perfect, and it always pissed me off to see someone who outranked me but was not proud enough to make sure they presented the same way. DO NOT call any of my guys out unless you talk to me first and your shit better be in one sock! But that is just me.

Response by COL John Delcore made Feb 23 at 2018 11:22 PM

2018-02-23T23:22:33-05:00

Response by Sherri Napier made Feb 24 at 2018 8:34 AM

2018-02-24T08:34:28-05:00

No. It seems like that is hiding.

Response by PO3 Darin Austin made Feb 24 at 2018 7:42 PM

2018-02-24T19:42:36-05:00

I don’t care what the service member is wearing as long as it is done respectively. With what they do I want them comfortable and not worrying about what to wear. They is a lot more to worry about then this topic. God Speed Doc Austin

Response by 1SG Frank Walker made Feb 24 at 2018 9:34 PM

2018-02-24T21:34:15-05:00

Absolutely yes

Response by PO1 Ilene DeChurch made Feb 25 at 2018 5:35 AM

2018-02-25T05:35:19-05:00

It's a working uniform & does not set an appropriate public image for our military!!!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2018 6:02 AM

2018-02-25T06:02:39-05:00

I’m not changing my clothes just to go get lunch off post

Response by SPC Chris Reding made Feb 25 at 2018 10:19 AM

2018-02-25T10:19:43-05:00

If we (army specific comment) had decent looking/wearing class B's or equivalent, I would like to get bdu off the street, for safety and perception reasons. However, 1968 is over, and it's time to update to good looking and feeling " business casual+" uniforms.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2018 1:48 PM

2018-02-25T13:48:25-05:00

This kinda seems like, yet another, a needless regulation to be followed. The main issues that spark this question are soldiers being in uniform and either looking tacky, because they don't take care of their appearance, or they are acting like fools for the public to see. Both of the issues come from poor leaders and poor training. If anyone thinks the appearance of the Army is falling apart, then the logic to that statement would be that our standards are falling apart. It's important for the public to have a good image of all the branches. That starts with soldiers showing up on Monday morning looking ate up and no one saying anything.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2018 9:04 AM

2018-02-26T09:04:18-05:00

I worked on the Air Force staff where I had to wear blues Mon-Thur. I believe people are more productive when dressed comfortably.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2018 12:27 PM

2018-02-26T12:27:34-05:00

I only wear my uniform off post if I have stuff I have to take care of & didn't have time to go home & change. I would prefer to leave post in civs than to be out & about in my uniform.

Response by LCpl Barbara Steele made Feb 26 at 2018 4:55 PM

2018-02-26T16:55:06-05:00

Classy Class A’s off base
USMC

Response by CPL Mark French made Feb 26 at 2018 5:35 PM

2018-02-26T17:35:09-05:00

I never had to worry about wearing acid I was always in cook whites .

Response by CPL Mark French made Feb 26 at 2018 5:35 PM

2018-02-26T17:35:27-05:00

Acus

Response by Cpl Thomas Woods made Feb 26 at 2018 6:49 PM

2018-02-26T18:49:03-05:00

Ladies, Gentlemen, and anyone confused: It's called "Have a little class", being proud and professional....But yes, it can be a pain in the ass, and off base camo wear doesn't really hurt anyone....That is all.

Response by PO3 Michael Macneill made Feb 27 at 2018 6:23 AM

2018-02-27T06:23:02-05:00

Like they did back when i was in!

Response by PO3 Michael Macneill made Feb 27 at 2018 6:25 AM

2018-02-27T06:25:36-05:00

They do not need a different camaflage uniform for each service!!! Show pride in your dress uniforms!!!

Response by CPT Thomas Cofield made Feb 27 at 2018 7:04 AM

2018-02-27T07:04:22-05:00

If the duty uniform to come to work is ACUs then there should be a provision to allow for troops to maybe go to grocery stores or gas stations, especially if the ability to go to one on post isn't available. Getting to a diesel pump isn't always easy on some posts so some feel they have to buy off post. Likewise running to the Commissary for a loaf of bread is probably not a great idea. But you shouldn't be in ACUs in regular stores, malls, restaurants, and so forth. At least not sit down in a restaurant.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 27 at 2018 1:44 PM

2018-02-27T13:44:45-05:00

Personally for me it doesn't make all that much of a difference. I may only be a PV2, however I'd be perfectly content with wearing my camouflage uniform out in public. In retrospect it doesn't seem the right thing to do, since we don't want to look even more of a target out in public as we already are. As I said, I wouldn't mind only because I'd love showing off my service. The Army even now, this little amount of time into my career, has changed my life for the better. The United States Army has done so much for me within these last 9 months. I'm so thankful for it and wouldn't mind one bit if this was allowed, but it wouldn't affect me either way if it wasnt.

Response by PO1 James Limric Jr made Feb 27 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-02-27T19:34:10-05:00

When I served in the Navy dungarees were not allowed off base. There where some exceptions like going directly home later in my career. Now I see "blueberries" and cammies out in restrauant shopping pretty much everywhere. I work at an international airport and they are the only uniforms I see except the Airforce folks that work in the AMC office. People travel on airplanes in cammies. And why do Sailors need cammies?

Response by LCpl Aaron Freeman made Feb 27 at 2018 11:29 PM

2018-02-27T23:29:10-05:00

I wore my utilities home from 29 Palms, one time... I got my ass chuck reamed by a reservist Gunny... not good! No... need to be banned! I'm a Marine, and that's how it's always been!

Response by Cpl Chris Peterson made Feb 28 at 2018 6:10 AM

2018-02-28T06:10:43-05:00

They always have so what's the change?

Response by SGT John Lawrence made Feb 28 at 2018 10:58 AM

2018-02-28T10:58:48-05:00

Yes as they are for field duty only and what I see is that most who do go off base don't adhere to the dress code the military has, usually no cap or only in their pants and t-shirt, if there is a code follow it.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2018 12:35 PM

2018-02-28T12:35:46-05:00

I usually change before i go home.. not that hard

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Feb 28 at 2018 7:16 PM

2018-02-28T19:16:50-05:00

We used to call them "Fatiques" - for a reason.

Response by PO1 William Ewing made Feb 28 at 2018 8:36 PM

2018-02-28T20:36:02-05:00

Fuck no. The *only* uniform they should have ever been allowed to ban off-base was the dungarees - and that's only because it was exactly the same uniform prisoners wore. Fuck any REMF that wants to ban working uniforms off-base.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2018 11:58 AM

2018-03-01T11:58:10-05:00

I think this should be branch specific. In all honest I think it is an inconvenience to dress in and out of uniform at your work place. Let the Marines do what they do...but when I was stationed at PACOM, those guys hated that they had to dress out of uniform just go have lunch with us other service members. If you look like a bag of rags, your leadership should be correcting your appearance. However, I do understand that in today's Army many NCOs don't the intestinal fortitude to correct an individual anymore. They walk pass them like they didn't see it. I on the other hand, like to look sharp in my uniform, regardless if they are dress uniforms or ACUs/OCPs. Why does the Marine Corps think everyone should follow suit with them...they don't set the standards for other branches...let them do what they do...let the other branches do what we do.

Response by SR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 1 at 2018 11:23 PM

2018-03-01T23:23:42-05:00

I know that the Navy has regulations on when the NWU's (Type 3's) can be work. Personally I enjoy that if we are to wear a uniform just out, for whatever the reason it is the NSU. That's my $0.02.

Response by CPO Wayne Lloyd made Mar 2 at 2018 4:06 PM

2018-03-02T16:06:28-05:00

Yes

Response by SSG Grant Mastin made Mar 2 at 2018 10:40 PM

2018-03-02T22:40:46-05:00

I'm Old School Army "77-92". The only time I wore a Class A uniform was on an Inspection for that uniform. At all other times it was BDU's.
There was a time when I drove for the Commander of DUSSA in VA. and that required Class A when going to Ft. Mead or the Pentagon. Otherwise it was BDU's.

Response by SN Peter Stella made Mar 4 at 2018 8:44 AM

2018-03-04T08:44:44-05:00

It's like we used to say Army if that's all you can be

Response by MSG Tom Behan made Mar 4 at 2018 10:08 AM

2018-03-04T10:08:10-05:00

Yes. I have been saying this for years. Expecially for reserves and national guard. Be caught anywhere other than military duty and pay the price. I have seen so much abuse with soldiers in them. It will also help with stolen valor. It will also help with the abuse soldiers receive while wearing it. It would help prevent a lot of stuff. Let state, local, and federal law enforcement give a no charge citation. This will cause it to show on the military blotter report. Then let the chain of command take it from there. I do not care if they are stopping to a store on or from drill, but to go out to dinner with family and so forth have alcohol is a whole different story. Or stopping at the mall to go shopping. To me that I sooo wrong. Bring cloths and change. Go home and change. Go to a friend's house and change. There is no reason to do it. Lack of discipline on the individual and the military chain of command. If the command doesn't care then the individual doesn't care. In today's world,. That seems to be the theme. Get soldiers to care. Not about themselfs but the military. You know,. Selflessness. Better yet, BE KNOW DO. Who's got a backbone. I am retired,. But my kids have been taught be know do. They know that woulda, shoulda, coulda doesnt sail a boat.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 4 at 2018 10:38 AM

2018-03-04T10:38:03-05:00

Old story, we did that for sometime, then they changed it.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 10:36 AM

2018-03-05T10:36:21-05:00

Someone is a Fobbit

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 10:36 AM

2018-03-05T10:36:47-05:00

edited

Response by SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint made Mar 5 at 2018 9:13 PM

2018-03-05T21:13:18-05:00

It would be nice to ban it on punks and people who did not serve.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2018 12:18 AM

2018-03-06T00:18:04-05:00

What about the Soldiers that actually work off post?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2018 7:55 AM

2018-03-06T07:55:54-05:00

My question is, what are those special circumstances and would it require other equipment?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 7 at 2018 2:13 AM

2018-03-07T02:13:05-05:00

No but it should be up to the post commander

Response by SPC Gary Hutson made Mar 7 at 2018 11:01 AM

2018-03-07T11:01:48-05:00

Why in the world would you want to force a larger dry cleaning expense on some one when quatermaster laundry is a lot cheaper. Wearing BDUs on duty is by far the most practical uniform for daily use, they last longer and the wear and tear is a lot less expensive for replacement garments. Personally sitting around the barracks spit shining a pair of jump boots was a tradition most paratroopers would love to forgo but I allways did like jumping in a pair of Cochrans just the same.

Response by 1SG Bill Haverty made Mar 7 at 2018 3:49 PM

2018-03-07T15:49:42-05:00

In my day you could not wear our work uniforms off-post had to change into you Class A or B's

Response by SSG James McDonald made Mar 7 at 2018 5:09 PM

2018-03-07T17:09:48-05:00

A clean neat uniform appearance with proper headgear would be appropriate in public along appropriate behavior.

Response by PO3 Andrew Tuckett made Mar 7 at 2018 5:21 PM

2018-03-07T17:21:19-05:00

I was in The Navy 1981-1986.
We never went of base in anything other than dress uniform (pressed and shined) or civies.
It was a good call then, and now.

Response by PFC Charles Tarwater made Mar 8 at 2018 4:37 PM

2018-03-08T16:37:13-05:00

When I was in the service, ( Sept. 72 to Sept,74 ) you weren't allowed to wear fatigues off the post. Class A's or Khakis. The only time it was allowed is if you were traveling in a military vehicle to and from field maneuvers,

Response by SPC Jennifer Kreegar made Mar 8 at 2018 7:46 PM

2018-03-08T19:46:25-05:00

Yes definitely.!

Response by SCPO Clark Gertner made Mar 8 at 2018 9:04 PM

2018-03-08T21:04:52-05:00

A COL answered, "Who says you can't starch them......" actually it says that right on the label. Starch apparently screws up the IR block. As to when ti wear them, I think we're getting too deep in the weeds on this. If that is your working uniform, work in it. As to off-base wear, that has been a regular topic for decades and is usually left to base/command policy. I have no issue with daily wear of my fighting uniform, it makes you familiar with all the moving parts of the uniform and gets everything nice and broken in (like button holes). It's annoying as hell to wear a new uniform on an OP, especially Gore-Tex. The recent policy change to have members using civilian airlines to travel in uniform was intended to accomplish exactly what many of you are saying we shoukd not do; be high viz. Other countries seem to also be split on this. Europeans don't generally permit off base wear and Latin American countries encourage it. Toss a coin.

Response by SGT Pat McCarty made Mar 8 at 2018 9:59 PM

2018-03-08T21:59:59-05:00

I am proud of my service and proud of those who serve now. If you look like a rag-bag at first inspection, your platoon sergeant should ‘address’ it. If your uniform is squared away what’s the harm?

Response by PV2 Cary Carpenter made Mar 8 at 2018 11:50 PM

2018-03-08T23:50:31-05:00

Yes. They don't need to wear their ACU's off post. Special circumstances,ok.

Response by PFC Robert Harden made Mar 9 at 2018 12:12 AM

2018-03-09T00:12:26-05:00

I can’t say I agree. I took great pride in any uniform that I wore. I don’t see what the trouble is.

Response by Sgt Steven Ball made Mar 9 at 2018 12:30 AM

2018-03-09T00:30:01-05:00

Yes, absolutely

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 9 at 2018 12:40 AM

2018-03-09T00:40:49-05:00

I can’t think of a truly legit reason to prevent folks wearing camouflage off base. Much ado about nothing.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 9 at 2018 3:56 AM

2018-03-09T03:56:27-05:00

Interesting question being overseas my understanding is that you are not allowed to where any military uniform to include OCP's, ASU's or even PT's outside of post so I've never really thought about it. But even in the states chain of command didn't forbid it but we were told we could only wear between home and work if we wanted to stop by they store we had to be out of uniform. Personally I don't know about banning the wear but I would like wise encourage leaders to discourage the wear in public unless otherwise authorized. We want to blend with the community not stand out.

Response by CPL Albert Mastrocesare made Mar 9 at 2018 11:59 AM

2018-03-09T11:59:33-05:00

Negative

Response by SGT Mac Walther made Mar 9 at 2018 5:53 PM

2018-03-09T17:53:38-05:00

No the whering of BUU ACU SHOULD NOT BE BANED OFF BASE. The regs state you don’t wear them to dinner or to bars and alike off post. After serving 19 plus years in the Army I lived most of it off base. I rode a desk at the AIC for the last 3 years of active duty nothing but office work and walk around inspection of the base so you would have me change to go out for those inspections no way.

Response by TSgt Allison Walls made Mar 9 at 2018 11:51 PM

2018-03-09T23:51:27-05:00

The Air Force regs used to say wear of BDUs off base was for essential stops only but that could have changed.

Response by SSgt Raymond Hessler made Mar 10 at 2018 1:06 PM

2018-03-10T13:06:39-05:00

If you are issued class a \ b uniforms. Use them. We were never allowed to wear our BDU,s outside the base perimeter, unless it was to travel home. No store stops, etc.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2018 10:25 PM

2018-03-10T22:25:48-05:00

No. Sometimes they leave work and live off base and stop to run errands on the way home! They should be proud to wear that uniform anywhere?

Response by SSgt Harlan Estrem made Mar 11 at 2018 10:07 AM

2018-03-11T10:07:14-04:00

I remember only being allowed to wear fatigues to post from quarters and vise versa.
No travel in cammies or fatigues. I think that policy should be reinstated. Work uniforms are for that purpose....work/ combat.
Wear civies or class A/B uniform iff post

Response by SSG Aj Whitsett made Mar 11 at 2018 10:39 AM

2018-03-11T10:39:59-04:00

Never felt like it was a big deal as long as he/she doesn't look like a ragbag.

Response by MSgt Levin Dutton made Mar 11 at 2018 10:51 AM

2018-03-11T10:51:30-04:00

Used to be that wearing fatigues / BDUs off-base could only be to and from HOR and making brief stops along the way. No wearing BDUs to malls or traveling by commercial carriers, unless military contracted. Comm air was either Class A or B uniforms or civilian clothing.

Response by GySgt Paul Blanchard made Mar 11 at 2018 2:24 PM

2018-03-11T14:24:13-04:00

No matter what you wear off Base you look, talk, act like a Soldier.... Does not matter if you are wearing t-shirt, shorts and flip-flops everyone can tell an American..... I wear my BDU's everywhere I go and have been asked to change into street cloths in a foreign airport because of the Threat Level but as I said no matter what you are wearing the haircut, tattoo, look, talk and act like an American Soldier everyone can tell....

Response by SGT Thomas Mitchell made Mar 11 at 2018 3:32 PM

2018-03-11T15:32:34-04:00

I have been out long enough to be unfamiliar on the issue. During my time in service the Army had transition from the OD fatigues to BDUs. In CONUS and during my time in Germany, BDUs were considered a field uniform even when worn in garrison. Soldiers were advised that if military clothing was worn in civilian areas (e.g., grocery store, etc.) that either class A or class B dress was appropriate if not wearing civilian clothing. BDUs being a field uniform were not appropriate.

I currently reside in a community that hosts an Air Force base and an Air National Guard unit. I see personnel wearing the current iteration of the field uniform in town on a regular basis. I guess times and attitudes have changed.

Response by SSG Will Phillips made Mar 11 at 2018 4:28 PM

2018-03-11T16:28:59-04:00

Anyone know when the Army made this policy change? In my day the only off post places that you were allowed to wear fatigues or BDU's was the gas station or a grocery store. If you were anywhere else in uniform it had better be a class A or B. Made for better representation of the service in my humble opinion.

Response by SPC Sean Martin made Mar 11 at 2018 5:22 PM

2018-03-11T17:22:59-04:00

I was always under the impression that Camouflaged (BDU, ACU) were known as work utilities, and should be worn as such. I believe working a office position should require the Dress uniform, simply because it looks more professional. I do not believe that when traveling by commercial airlines, (casual) require to use of wearing camouflage uniform.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2018 5:25 PM

2018-03-11T17:25:05-04:00

Let's grow our hairs and beards! :) now we can dye our hair pink and cut it however we want! It's a security risk if not too :D

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Mar 11 at 2018 5:47 PM

2018-03-11T17:47:54-04:00

Why should anyone be concerned about it? Personally I am not offended by seeing someone who defends our country in “work clothes “. Beats the devil out of some scruffy dude with plumbers crack!

Response by PFC Robert Hawn made Mar 11 at 2018 9:25 PM

2018-03-11T21:25:52-04:00

I do not believe that ACU’s should be worn off post. During my stint you were not allowed to wear BDU’s or DCU’s off Post (only to residence).

Response by Capt Joe Chatman made Mar 11 at 2018 9:51 PM

2018-03-11T21:51:29-04:00

Yes

Response by SPC Patrick Garrett made Mar 11 at 2018 10:36 PM

2018-03-11T22:36:10-04:00

I can hear people screaming now “ i’ve been cutting grass and raking leaves all day in class b’s what the hell?!”... and no one dare say it won’t happen because it happens now. Leaders fail and subordinates act like children. It’s a shit show really.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 5:39 AM

2018-03-12T05:39:58-04:00

So what I am herring is we should be afraid to wear our uniform in public and show it is only the uniform that makes us soldiers. We are soldiers and should not be afraid to show it. Yes danger lurkes in every shadow but where does it not. Our country has become less patriotic twords the millitary and now our millitary has become less patriotic of itself.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 11:03 AM

2018-03-12T11:03:33-04:00

Back to the old days

Response by CPL Mark Andersen made Mar 12 at 2018 1:23 PM

2018-03-12T13:23:44-04:00

I could not wait to get out of my uniform at the end of the day. I cannot imagine why anyone would want to wear it off post.

Response by SSgt Jeffrey Gallaher made Mar 12 at 2018 1:27 PM

2018-03-12T13:27:05-04:00

There is no reason for wearing Camouflage uniforms off the base. This is a "WORK" uniform/field uniform. Some will say it is fine to wear Camouflage/BDU's/ACU's in a Restaurant or Grocery Store. Sorry that doesn't get it. That is a WORK/FIELD UNIFORM not a STEAKHOUSE/ FINE DINNING dress. Stop at a Grocery Store for milk, eggs and bread fine, don't do your months shopping. Go home and change your cloths.

Response by SPC Steve Piunti made Mar 12 at 2018 2:05 PM

2018-03-12T14:05:19-04:00

Back in the early 80’s we were always told to Not wear BDU’s or dress uniforms to the airports! That has obviously changed!!

Response by SSG Antoinette Azevedo Toscano made Mar 12 at 2018 2:07 PM

2018-03-12T14:07:32-04:00

Perry, thanks for posting this question. I say no, it shouldn't be banned. Here's why. The American public is so oblivious to military service, the sacrifices that we and our families make, and have an out of sight out of mind attitude towards its military. Seeing service members as proud, professional, women and men who selflessly serve the country is one way that America's military can stay in the American consciousness. That we people like you and me, and our fellow brothers and sisters at arms are real people. Hopefully, that will get civilians to vote, act, and consider service as an option also. It is easy for civilians to forget about the plight of the veteran when only one percent of the U.S. population has ever served. I'm meeting young people who don't have any veterans in their immediate family and they have some crazy ideas about military service and why we one percent join the military. If they knew their fellow undergrad, neighbor, and church leaders are veterans and conversed with them it could really make a difference in their perception of the military and veterans.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 2:47 PM

2018-03-12T14:47:05-04:00

This is a loaded question. Its a uniform supported with dignity and pride. Why not show support in your line of work and even at a civilian level why shouldnt you be allowed to show support of heritage for our great nation by wearing full or partial uniforms to support and show respect to those in service even if you have been there or not. In essence all they really are is just fabricated clothing, i myself usually stand by on topic like this but as time has passed and i grew older and wiser i have become. My stance is why the hell not? Shit stop with the nonsense bickering and allow it instead of being stubborn and closed minded. My family is full of heritage from the National Guard to the Army to the Corp. And they all smile when i wear my recruiting officers ACU bottoms he gave me before he had an accident that took his life away from us all.

Response by PO1 Bob Nelson made Mar 12 at 2018 2:55 PM

2018-03-12T14:55:39-04:00

No, it's not practical. What should you wear class A's? It's especially not practical for those who live off base, come to work in Civilian / Dress Uniform, then change into Camo.....at the end of your duty day then change back into Civilian / Dress Uniform.....Really!!

Response by CPT Robert Kennedy made Mar 12 at 2018 5:08 PM

2018-03-12T17:08:03-04:00

No, why would you need to.

Response by SFC John Fontenot made Mar 12 at 2018 5:46 PM

2018-03-12T17:46:44-04:00

Wow, how over time it is felt the duty uniform does not represent your service affiliation. In the 1970s I worked in an electronic shop repairing radios the same as I did when I retired in 2013. Eighty percent of the time the Class B uniform would work or the old Class C the Khakis. But the sharpest looking uniform that worked 100% was the old green pickle suit. Starched and with spit shined boots you represented your Army affiliation great. 2nd best uniform was the starched Khakis with shined loafers. But shortly after the Vietnam era, many post did not want you wearing any uniform except to work and returning straight home. In did wonders for AFEEs as not many wanted to go all the home to change into civvies then go back out for shopping. Speaking for the Army, I would say return Khakis for many Mos's and use class B for office jobs. Field duty, mechanics, motor pools all utilize the ACU or go back to pickle.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 8:58 PM

2018-03-12T20:58:02-04:00

I don't think they should be authorized off post, I went to a NASCAR race in Vegas a couple weeks ago and an E5 AF was walking around in his camo uniform (looked 8up). There is no reason. If your going to a function or representing the military then you should be in class A/ASU.... at bare minimum have some respect in your uniform and for everyone that has worn it

Response by CPL Joe Hewitt made Mar 12 at 2018 9:28 PM

2018-03-12T21:28:31-04:00

Absolutly. This is not something to be ashamed of. It's about pride. There is no good reason to not wear your uniform when on duty. Going to or coming home. I wish I could still wear one.

Response by MAJ Doug Mattox made Mar 12 at 2018 10:57 PM

2018-03-12T22:57:35-04:00

Just a funny side note. I just came out of the field. I was fairly dirty. I called my wife to tell her I was on my way home (before cell phones). She asked me to stop and get milk. I lost the negotiation and ran into the local grocery store to get a gallon of milk. A young kid came up and asked me if I was in the Army. I proudly answered yes. He looked up and asked, why are your boots not shined? I did a Hasty retreat out of the market.

Response by SGT Les Powell made Mar 12 at 2018 11:39 PM

2018-03-12T23:39:00-04:00

Yes...

Response by MSgt George Cater made Mar 13 at 2018 12:53 AM

2018-03-13T00:53:01-04:00

YES, period.

Response by Cpl Harold Mendelson made Mar 13 at 2018 1:27 AM

2018-03-13T01:27:39-04:00

When I was in the Marines over 50 years ago we didn't gave camouflaged uniforms when at worth we wore O D utilities. We could not ware th am off base unless we were conducting field exercises off base. Married Marines living off base could ware them traveling home and were allowed to make,short stops to do things like pick up laundry or go to the post office or even get a haircut. When were were issued jungle boots and jungle utilities, we were able to ware untucked utility blouses and boots that weren't spit shined. Now I live near Fort Bragg and I see plant of soldiers in uniform. So many of them are wearing their field uniforms when I see someone in their class A uniform th at soldier looks out of place. I suppose everything changes. The current Marine utility uniform has a digital pattern with tiny Marine globe and anchor symbols as part of the digital pattern. Even the boots have a globe and anchor on the side of them. I guess the Marines still heavily restrict the wearing of utilities off base. I guess its a discipline thing with the Marines. When i was discharged, my uniforms hadnt caught up with me and all i had for uniforms was one set of dress blues two sets of jungle utilities and one long sleeve khaki shirt and a khaki tie. I put on my dress blues when i arrive at the Detroit airport by car from San Diego so I could get a special reduced airplane ticket. I checked my teabag and carried my parachute on the airplane. Things sure have changed since then.
On the car ride from San Diego to Detroit there were four of us. One of the people in the car was the owner, the car was a full sized olds. I was the only one that was discharged, the other three had been students of mine in San Diego. We all took turns driving. We drove on Route 66 as the interstates replacing Route 66 hadn't been built. My turn to drive came at Flagstaff. I got on the road and it was dark in the middle of December. The car ran great and the other three were sleeping. I was cruising at 100 mph for the entire time until we reached Albuquerque New Mexico. I stopped for gas and to get a sandwich and a coke. The owner woke up and after gaining full consciousness looked at his watch and asked me what town we were in, it took a few seconds to grasp what I said and figured out we rode from Flagstaff at 100 mph. That was my last turn at the wheel. We dropped one guy off along the way and then he dropped me off at the airport. I grabbed a flight to JFK and at JFK I grabbed a bus to the subway and got off at my stop. It was past dinner time and I went into the local ice cream shop where I spent many hours of my youth. I ordered a burger, a milkshake and a slice of ice cream cake. I still remember how good it tasted. I called my mom from the pay phone to let her know I would be at her front door soon. I went back to the so inter to finish my meal and savored each sip of the shake and bite of the ice cream cake. Being it was December in New York City it was cold outside and I'm sure the guy serving me my meal must have thought I was nuts for ordering the shake and ice cream cake in the middle of the winter but it was exactly what I wanted. I was wearing my ribbons, gold Navy jump wings and my rifle and pisrol qualification badges. With my xorperal stripes and the red stripes on my dress blues i looked like rhe best dress doorman in New York City. I left the ice cream shop with my gear and walked the three blocks to my home. When I rang the buzzer to my mom's place she buzzed me in. I took the elevator to the third floor and was greeted by all the neighbors. By the time the last neighbor left the apartment and I finished my conversation with my mom I was beyond tired. I slept in my old bed for the first time in over two years.

Response by MSgt Stephen Reed made Mar 13 at 2018 1:36 AM

2018-03-13T01:36:23-04:00

Work uniforms should be worn on base only.

Response by SGT Ray Williams made Mar 13 at 2018 2:21 PM

2018-03-13T14:21:18-04:00

Personally I would rather see our troops regardless of their branch in class A, or B's while traveling / walking through airports. They may not be as comfortable, but they are more professional, and troops walk taller and prouder in them..

Response by SGT Ernesto Bloberg made Mar 13 at 2018 2:43 PM

2018-03-13T14:43:00-04:00

During my military days while stationed at Fort Hood we were not allowed to wear utility garments while off duty other than going or returning to base and home.

Response by LCpl Trace Schweizer made Mar 13 at 2018 6:36 PM

2018-03-13T18:36:43-04:00

Marines have to be allowed to wear cammies (bdu army) on base for jobs. We wore cammies always on base and deployed......but Marines never wear cammies off base, always service a, b, c or dress blues

Response by PVT Mark Brown made Mar 13 at 2018 6:45 PM

2018-03-13T18:45:08-04:00

Good question, one that has been in my brain for a good many years. I was Vietnam era vet. Back in those days and I would guess prior years as well one would be a fool to even think about wearing fatigues off post. Not sure how that works for those living off post, maybe to and from ONLY.

Response by Col Jonathan Brazee made Mar 13 at 2018 7:02 PM

2018-03-13T19:02:17-04:00

I was at Camp Lejeune when not only were utilities banned for all reasons off base, but on weekends, you couldn't go to the exchange or any other commercial facility. That made it pretty difficult when we were on air alert and were required to be on base, in utilities. Gen Gray put a stop to the stupid exchange rule when he took over the division and was stopped and told he couldn't enter the exchange. Put it still made it difficult for Marines and sailors who lived off base to stop for gas or even go through a drive-through. I happen to agree that the field uniform should not be worn while on liberty off-base, but for banning them for all instances is overkill.

Response by CDR S Gasparovich made Mar 13 at 2018 9:30 PM

2018-03-13T21:30:11-04:00

On base / off base....what I really want to know is WHAT THE HELL IS THE "MATERNITY" ACU/BDU ALL ABOUT!?!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2018 9:35 PM

2018-03-13T21:35:26-04:00

...And people who live off post have to change before heading home?

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Mar 13 at 2018 11:29 PM

2018-03-13T23:29:32-04:00

When I first entered the service, I would have been all for wearing cammies out in town. It seemed like a hassle having to change into Charlies or Civvies to go out in town for lunch. Looking back now, I understand why the decision was made and agree with the decision THEN to not allow people to wear their cammies out in town.

BUT times change, public sentiments change, etc. In the late 70's when I joined, there was still a very public sentiment that was anti-military. Granted it wasn't right, but that's just how it was. People blamed the military for the Vietnam Conflict. Yet it was the politicians that hamstrung the military's ability to do its job.

It wasn't till Desert Storm that that negative sentiment changed. So now, when people see Cammies out in town, it doesn't conjure up all the negatives it did in my day. Instead of spitting on you, people thank you. Don't abuse it.

SSG Stephen Hurst did an EXCELLENT job articulating why Cammies should not be a "Liberty" uniform and I concur wholeheartedly with everything he said. Especially this:

"Soldiers need to limit their time in and around civilians in BDU/ACU/Camouflage and Dress ASU's, Class B etc Uniforms. Why should someone in ACUs be walking around in the Mall? At a Restaurant fine, Grocery Store OK, but Hanging out at the Mall NO."

I think it is a sensible approach that reflects the present times.

------------------------------------
As an aside, I think it's wrong to wear your cammies out in town to troll for public compliments and attention. You should feel humbled that the Nation put its trust in you and gave you the PRIVILEGE to serve, and all the opportunities to see the world, receive an education, medical benefits, etc. Not many people serve and many who want to serve are denied the opportunity for a variety of reasons... some beyond their control. You are in a special group of citizens that put their life on the line to serve our country. For those who are retired, you earned it, but not many people get to retire with just 20 years in. Be thankful for the paycheck that comes in at the end of every month.

Response by Maj John Bell made Mar 14 at 2018 12:08 AM

2018-03-14T00:08:11-04:00

Yes, unless in a duty status where another uniform is unsuitable because of the nature of the duties en route or upon arrival.

Response by SPC Robert W Blount made Mar 14 at 2018 5:22 AM

2018-03-14T05:22:21-04:00

I was in the Amy during the early 80's stationed at Fort Dix, NJ. All permanent party personnel were prohibited from wearing BDU's off post. Class A uniform or civilian clothes, no BDU's unless you were in your car or on your motorcycle heading to home or to work. Going through the drive through, or getting gas was ok, but otherwise it was class A uniform. I was a Sp4 at the time and hated to wear my class A uniform, so civilian clothes it was off post!

Response by SSG Daniel Velazquez made Mar 14 at 2018 10:15 AM

2018-03-14T10:15:01-04:00

In every base I was station, you could only stop on the way home for essentials, not to hang or shop in malls

Response by SSG JimSchan Thomas made Mar 14 at 2018 1:10 PM

2018-03-14T13:10:25-04:00

If I had my way, everyone would be in uniform even civilians. Society has gone to the gutter and a nice tight uniform appearance could help jumpstart us back in order. Imagine the social problems we could solve if everyone looked alike.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2018 9:58 PM

2018-03-14T21:58:21-04:00

No everyone should be allowed to wear their work uniforms off base. It's ridiculous that people have the idea that you shouldn't be able to get out of your car and pump gas in your working uniform. They have instructions that limit wear for each branch. I don't know anyone except maybe an occasional fool who tries to go out and pick girls up in their uniforms. Also our dress uniforms are not comfortable and look terrible on half the people wearing them to work so it's better if they just wear camo all the time.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2018 11:32 PM

2018-03-14T23:32:12-04:00

Last I checked you were supposed to limit your wear of camo uniforms to brief excursions. So, wearing it to grab lunch? Yes. Wearing it to pick up girls at the mall? No. A quick trip to the grocery store on the way home? Yes. A trip to a movie? No. Banning the wear off base totally would be more of a nuisance than a benefit as it would apply across the board without distinction... So you would have to wear civvys, pt, or a dress uniform on your way to work and then change on base because wearing them from your door to your car is now banned. Personally, I think it is ridiculous to want to completely ban them off base.

Response by PO1 Ilene DeChurch made Mar 14 at 2018 11:35 PM

2018-03-14T23:35:56-04:00

Yes they should be banned off base. They are a working uniform & therefore meant to get dirty. That does not provide the stellar appearance of the military to the civilian population, as we should all be striving for. If you're in the military and that image is not a priority, then get the heck out. Pride in uniform is a must!

Response by GySgt Charles O'Connell made Mar 15 at 2018 10:16 AM

2018-03-15T10:16:04-04:00

Is this really a Secretary level decision? I would think , no. At my last duty station, orders from II MEF were that the wear of the utility uniform when traveling to and from off-base accommodation was authorized, this being a continuation of orders passed down by previous Commanders. In the event of an emergency, i.e. car break down, accident... The wear of the utility uniform was authorised. Shopping at the K-Mart, getting fuel, paying the electric bill, etc... Not emergencies. Pretty simple. The problem came with enforcement. Too many turned a blind eye.

The same ones that flout the regulation are no doubt the same ones that whine about the decreasing levels of discipline.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2018 9:12 PM

2018-03-15T21:12:16-04:00

Yes.

Response by Cpl Zach Wellborn made Mar 15 at 2018 9:49 PM

2018-03-15T21:49:00-04:00

Being a Marine, camo is considered killing clothes. Or also work attire. Seeing people in public wearing camo; Its like attention seeking assholes when you’re told to keep a low profile.

Response by Cpl J. R. Lonsway made Mar 21 at 2018 2:26 PM

2018-03-21T14:26:01-04:00

This comes and goes by generation. When I served, guys that had been in Vietnam said that the only people wearing camouflaged utilities were grunts in combat zones, but even then most had regular green utilities. Cammies were never authorized for wear outside of that. In every duty station where I served, Marines wore starched utilities to work unless they felt like wearing the class A (which I never saw unless it was mandatory, such as an inspection or checking into a new duty station), and class B once in a great while but I never saw that in the tropics (Guam and Guantanamo Bay). We either wore utilities or class C, which was the short-sleeve shirt with ribbons. USMC back then issued a complete khaki uniform in addition to the wool green. I liked that uniform, it was sharp. Gotta love those CO's that called for inspection in class A wools! Don't worry, we spoke fondly of you in the barracks!

Response by SP5 Geoffrey Vannerson made Mar 22 at 2018 3:13 PM

2018-03-22T15:13:48-04:00

BDU = Battle Dress Uniform(s)! My opinion for what its worth is as a soldier they should be worn everywhere you go on or off post with the exception of when you are in your own domain (home) barracks room or off duty. As a soldier one must assume a "battle" could break out at any time. Operational Readiness Exercises don't allot for a time out to change, and some clown from a foreign country isn't going to make time for you to get ready. BE READY, STAY READY! Dress uniforms for change of command ceremonies or special events only!!! Even a pencil pushing office clerk still needs to be ready to fire a weapon at the drop of a hat.

Response by SGT Steven Stemple made Mar 23 at 2018 8:51 AM

2018-03-23T08:51:57-04:00

When I was in the military it was prohibited to wear your uniform of post. There was an active shooter on the freeway targeting personal info uniform. Going to the mall in uniform, what is the rational behind that?

Response by MAJ James Woods made Mar 29 at 2018 3:25 PM

2018-03-29T15:25:10-04:00

Uh no. Soldiers live off post and should not be burdened by rules saying they can only wear uniform straight home otherwise change to civvies. Could be worse; the Pentagon rules could apply to all garrison environments and soldiers had to wear their ASUs as the duty uniform.

Response by SPC Janet Roush made Mar 30 at 2018 4:46 AM

2018-03-30T04:46:21-04:00

All good comments. I guess I feel if you are off duty and need to make a stop at the store on the way home no big deal but no need to to just go out and about.

Response by SGT Roger Bunton made Apr 1 at 2018 11:29 PM

2018-04-01T23:29:28-04:00

Proper uniform for the particular job....off post dress neatly in civilian clothing unless going or coming from your duty station.

Response by SGT Roger Bunton made Apr 1 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-04-01T23:31:21-04:00

Be a strack troop at all times .

Response by PV2 Robert Lind made Apr 2 at 2018 11:11 AM

2018-04-02T11:11:34-04:00

I have had several opportunities in my lifetime to wear a uniform. When I was young I wore a uniform for my country. Back in those days we wore the OD Green fatigues, but never off post. If we were going to town, khakis were approved, if we were traveling it was class A.
Fast forward a few years and I find myself in another uniform for a different government agency. Agency rules dictate deminimus exposure in the community, a stop for gas or a few groceries. As time passes, attacks on uniformed personnel in the community increase to the point where a cover garment is recommended by senior staff for Officers traveling to and from work. Bullet resistant vests for all unarmed Officers working in the community. Nowadays, I still wear my uniform from home to work, but always have it covered. I carry concealed. I minimize my stops while in uniform. I recently moved to a community with an AFB. As much as I am happy to see the troops out in uniform, I can't help but think that we are putting these kids at greater risk by allowing them into the community in uniform, but not allowing them to carry.

Response by SCPO Don Baker made Apr 7 at 2018 8:30 AM

2018-04-07T08:30:12-04:00

Yes.

Response by AN Donald Miller made Apr 11 at 2018 9:56 PM

2018-04-11T21:56:48-04:00

No. I look upon military personnel with great regard and respect that I see off base, no matter the uniform. It can be a major task to have to change out of camouflage every-time when needing to go off base. Why make it difficult to wear the uniform. Give them a break.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2018 2:35 PM

2018-04-17T14:35:07-04:00

I agree with wearing the camouflage uniforms for "dirty " or field work and the more professional class A or B for normal duty. In my humble opinion it does give a more professional appearance. Also I know when I was in I spent alot of extra money to make sure my uniforms were "squared away" and it kind of pissed me off that with all the extra spent on them only to wear them occasionally possibly two or three separate occasions a year. Heck I'd need a size change before any of my sets of As or Bs wore out during my 18 years of service. As far as searching the camouflage uniforms like we did the BDUs it's not really pradical unless they can come up with a way to keep the starch off the velcro they've ended up putting all over the uniforms.

Response by Capt Edward Hannan made Apr 19 at 2018 4:04 PM

2018-04-19T16:04:06-04:00

in my opinion, camouflage, BDU, fatigues or old Corps "utilities" are field or manual labor uniforms, not street clothes. they should not be starched or ironed but be as comfortable and practical as possible. In my time in service (ancient history) utility uniforms were not worn off base except when on the way to a field problem or some sort of operation such as riot control or emergency assistance.

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Apr 19 at 2018 8:36 PM

2018-04-19T20:36:04-04:00

The short answer to the question Hell NO!

Wow, has this ever been a fun read! It sure is strange that no one seems to have taken time to read the current regs from Army (AR670-1) or Navy (Unifrom Regs, Article 3603) to see what the services might have to say CURRENTLY about wear of ACU or NWU off base.

Well here is the Navy version: NWU Type I and III wear is authorized for commuting and all normal task associated stops (e.g. stops at child care, gas stations, off-base shopping, banking, DMV and dining) before, during and after the workday. NWUs are not liberty uniforms. Wear while conducting official business, when business attire is appropriate and participating in social events after normal working hours is not permitted. Consumption of alcohol off-base is not permitted. The area or regional commander may further restrict uniform policies within their geographical limits regarding wear of the NWUs. The Army version is more or less similar in many ways.

As you can see - both Navy and Army do allow quick stops off base in their working uniforms. Now the original question was, "Should the DoD ban the wear of all camouflaged uniforms off of military installations unless there are special circumstances?" My Answer - heck NO! We are a professional, All-Volunteer Force. If our Sailors or Soldiers do not want to wear their uniforms proudly and properly, FIRE THEIR ASSES and let them go!

Response by CPT Jim Gallagher made Apr 20 at 2018 7:14 PM

2018-04-20T19:14:10-04:00

BDU's are for the field, Class B's for the office. Uniforms should be worn off base as well, to do otherwise is a sign of weakness !

Response by SSG Jacque Brandon made Apr 28 at 2018 8:59 PM

2018-04-28T20:59:47-04:00

When I was in 72/83 fatigues were ok to wear while working on base you never wore them off post. Pumping. Gas was ok but you couldn't go into a fast food restaurant. I guess the thinking was look professional when in public. But this was a time when the military was other very popular.

Response by SGT Joseph Alanzo made May 7 at 2018 5:14 AM

2018-05-07T05:14:04-04:00

NO THERE are Military people live off post and are also RECUITER of POST and most of here is your BRAINS AT.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made May 12 at 2018 7:03 PM

2018-05-12T19:03:20-04:00

Once upon a time, the policy was that the BDU would not be used off-post. That is to go out shopping unless it was for gas or first hand items onthe way home. Now days way too many service members where the class c/srvice uniform off the installation for just about anything. This includes travel, i have seen some trying to score a first class seat on a leave flight (not counting those who are going on R&R from down range). I think we need to pull the reigns in on such practices and go back to the "once upon a time" policy.

Response by PFC Elijah Rose made May 12 at 2018 11:25 PM

2018-05-12T23:25:19-04:00

Over-regulation at it's most obvious. A) It would be hard to enforce. B) It would be inconvenient. C) It makes the collective mistrust in the military obvious.
The only reason I can think of that someone might want this rule is to prevent men from trying to use the uniform to pick up girls. Bit note that this rule will utterly fail to do that as it eould come nowhere close to undoing the root cause of that problem.

Response by SFC David Xanten made May 12 at 2018 11:28 PM

2018-05-12T23:28:01-04:00

Yes. It is a work uniform and when I was at Ft Gordon in 66, if you were caught outside your car off post wearing fatigues if cost you one grade and that applied to everyone

Response by CPL Brian Howald made May 13 at 2018 12:20 AM

2018-05-13T00:20:38-04:00

Unless stopping of for gas or part of a scheduled activity as part of a duty period. I thought this was already the standard. Even when I was in the guard I generally didn't wear mine out and about. I may have gotten a meal during the day or, grabbed something quick somewhere over the twelve years but, was trained that it wasn't for general wear. Some full time guard I know wore them but they were also often not just at their desks but often doing other things at the armory that class b wasn't practical for daily wear in an artillery or other combat arms units. Seems like standards on acu have slipped. I see people wearing crazy sunglasses, no cover etc.

Response by SSG Lisa Wright made May 13 at 2018 3:42 PM

2018-05-13T15:42:41-04:00

I have been required to wear my ACUs on duty for practically everything since they were first issued. I’ve worn my PFU in the grey version and the new black version when required. My dress uniform has only been required about a dozen times in all those years. If I have to stop someplace on my way home from duty, it will be in whatever uniform was required of me that day. If I am supposed to go to an appointment, meet someone for dinner, or swing by to pick up my husband for dinner, I will still be in that uniform, and I have no problem with it. When I finally get home to stay at the end of the day or night, at that time I will be changing into my PJs and relaxing until bedtime. If I am on the tight time schedule that I usually am, trying very hard to fit everything in and give everyone the attention they deserve, then I should not be forced to waste my precious time changing into civies (or worse, a dress uniform that I’ve only worn rarely and thus have to locate all required parts of it), when I am perfectly comfortable wearing whatever uniform was required, I look good in it, and I always wear it with tremendous pride.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2018 8:41 PM

2018-05-13T20:41:37-04:00

Spoken of a true POG!

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2018 2:01 AM

2018-05-14T02:01:17-04:00

I don't really agree or disagree, but at the same time, screw wearing blues. Those things are the most uncomfortable things on the planet; the sadist that decided wrapping yourself in wool and polyester all day needs to be waterboarded with diesel. I would agree with a flat toned BDU or utility, like black BDUs or OD green BDUs. It sounds extreme, but I would literally let my enlistment lapse if it meant having to wear blues every day. Not an exaggeration, I would get out. I am fine for every once in a while; promotions, inspections, etc. But never every day. Yeah, I look good in them. But when it comes to my comfort and and concentration, f*ck your opinion of me. :P

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2018 6:51 PM

2018-05-15T18:51:51-04:00

Why would you want to be out in uncomfortable cloths like your uniform in the first place? Plus you get swarmed by all the, "Thank you for your service" fan base people. No thank you, hard pass on it.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2018 7:30 PM

2018-05-15T19:30:07-04:00

Not a fan of wearing uniforms in public, makes you stand out.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2018 7:32 PM

2018-05-15T19:32:29-04:00

Let’s look at this from an operational security (OPSEC) mindset for a second. With the world we live in where bad guys who wear civilian clothes are no longer spies but armed militants, either domestic or foreign, and not only abroad but at home now. So why would we want to advertise who we are even more than we already do? Let’s be honest, the way we look in civilian attire with how we walk, talk, look, and interact with each other is pretty obvious. Especially in the Marine Corps with the proper civilian attire rule that 1stSgts and SgtMajs love to enforce to a ridiculous standard. Terrorist attacks, foreign and domestic intelligence collection risks, internet and social media threats, along with the constantly swaying political climate and its effects on the civil populace all beg one to question why on earth would you want to scream to the world who we are? This goes beyond the camouflage utility uniform argument about being out in town. It’s deeper than that, it’s about not just our image but risk to force and risk to mission. Living in a world where a Private or PFC can effect operational mission readiness with a click of a mouse can have adverse effects on more than just our image. With that being said, why would we want to add more risk by allowing uniform wear at all in the civilian realm? We have to spend extra time now educating our service members on social media do’s and don’ts, especially when in regard to military associated posts. This is in part due to the few doing something stupid in uniform and it affecting the whole DoD as a whole. Which is why I argue unless you’re formally representing the military, service members should not be authorized to wear his or her uniform outside of a military installation. I’ll conclude with this for all to ponder. Do you want to be a target as a sheep dog or a wolf hound disguised as a sheep ready to surprise and kill the wolf with lethal accuracy?

Response by CPT Randall Sands made May 17 at 2018 5:05 PM

2018-05-17T17:05:34-04:00

Wearing of BDU should be only for work related activities while on duty. Off base usage should be restricted to going and coming and on special assignments.

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made May 17 at 2018 7:15 PM

2018-05-17T19:15:03-04:00

What is the point? As a Marine I could wear utilities off base on a limited basis, going home etc. Causing military personnel to HAVE to change uniforms or into civilian clothes for no reason is silly and costly to them. I see no reason why present SOPs should be abandoned for more stringent, costly changes.

Response by 2ndLt Fulton Recepcion made May 18 at 2018 9:18 AM

2018-05-18T09:18:22-04:00

Why would you want to wear them off base? Commuting to and from base is one thing, but going other places in between, why should you?

Response by LTC Charles Hamilton made May 22 at 2018 6:19 PM

2018-05-22T18:19:07-04:00

Used to be in early 70s as I vaguely remember.

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made May 23 at 2018 11:35 AM

2018-05-23T11:35:25-04:00

We'e always told that when you travel to another country not to dress in clothes that mark you as Americans and exhibit mannerisms that would do the same for security reasons. Of course our language gives us away but that is not the point of security concerns. These days we are at greater potential risk at home, so why the need to wear uniforms off base unless needed for a specific military purpose. As an aside, I never liked the idea of wearing camis in a hospital or clinic when the Navy had perfectly good khakis and enlisted uniforms. And never camis at professional conferences.

Response by Sgt Shawn Towne made May 24 at 2018 9:40 PM

2018-05-24T21:40:49-04:00

Definitely for off base. Marines already can't do it off base because it's unprofessional. It's a work uniform. You gonna go groceries shopping in your Dunkin donuts uniform? Same exact thing. On base though? Definitely only cammies. Service uniforms should be burned. Cost too much to upkeep and if you think uniform allowance is an acceptable excuse you're a dumb boot.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2018 1:54 PM

2018-05-31T13:54:01-04:00

it was that way when i was in

Response by GySgt Keith Rininger made Jun 2 at 2018 12:05 AM

2018-06-02T00:05:10-04:00

100% Yes.

Response by CSM Bruce Cuppett made Jun 2 at 2018 3:45 PM

2018-06-02T15:45:23-04:00

Response by Marlene Hessler made Jun 8 at 2018 10:33 PM

2018-06-08T22:33:54-04:00

There was a time where National Pride was the norm. To see one of our finest wearing military uniform inspired Americans. We are in really weird state of shame these days. Entitlement is the mental state of so many that have no concept of what it truly means to be an American. People from 3rd World S-hole countries are somehow revered over the people that put their lives, health, and so much more on the line that WE LIVE FREE. When will they learn the appreciation? When it is no more. And, it won't return in their lifetime and not without significant bloodshed.

Response by SFC Kevin Barlow made Jun 11 at 2018 1:42 PM

2018-06-11T13:42:20-04:00

Probably not stateside going to and from work with the exception of bringing home some milk from the store. But just hangout doesn't really look professional. Definitely at a minimum overseas to minimize being a target.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2018 11:06 AM

2018-06-16T11:06:42-04:00

Traditionally, on every military base I've ever been stationed on, if we are "at war" (and by that, I mean any time we have troops somewhere in harm's way) we all wear BDU/ACU Camouflage as a way to show support.
But even though my job required a lot of desk work, when I went out and worked, I was crawling around on the floor pulling network cable, and that is not conducive to staying clean and looking nice. Even if I was working in the shop, you'd be surprised just how dirty a computer can get. ;-)
But the Air Force always had a policy that if you were wearing a work uniform, stops at the grocery store or any other store for a quick in and out, or to pick up a takeout order at a restaurant were allowed, but that was all. I stretched it once and stopped at the hospital to visit a friend in ICU, but that was the only time.
Since the Air Force actually and a reg (now instructions) on the wearing of a utility uniform, I'm sure that there is something in DoD regulations that cover it. I just haven't found it yet.

Response by MAJ Jim Hollingsworth made Jun 17 at 2018 12:15 PM

2018-06-17T12:15:28-04:00

I favor whatever is easier (and less costly) for the Soldier. Common sense says save the Class A's for formal occasions.

Response by Sgt John K Rupp Jr made Jun 19 at 2018 8:49 PM

2018-06-19T20:49:19-04:00

You should wear uniform that fits type of work you perform, dress for office, fatigues for dirty work. USAF, Vietnam Vet.

Response by SSG Brian Carpenter made Jun 21 at 2018 8:29 AM

2018-06-21T08:29:58-04:00

Same old argument. Restrict where and how but do not ban. Some soldiers live far enough away from base and even a grocery store that they have no choice but to stop on the way home. Gas or other things not available on post. But I agree if you have time to go to the mall you have time to change.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2018 1:09 AM

2018-06-23T01:09:20-04:00

Yes, battle uniforms should be restricted to the base. They are inappropriate for mingling in society off base. However, the Army will continue to look like a bunch of French admirals until they do something about their current uniform.

Response by Capt Robert Myers made Jul 3 at 2018 8:50 AM

2018-07-03T08:50:57-04:00

I agree. In the Corps "utilities" were a work uniform. I wore them every day when I was the Range officer @ WTBN at Quantico in 1972. When I went into the 'villet here or my duty stations in California, Arizona I always wore my "best pressed" seasonal uniform. It is only appropriate that we place our Corps and ourselves in the best light possible.

Response by SPC William Fowler made Jul 3 at 2018 3:20 PM

2018-07-03T15:20:39-04:00

These men are soldiers they look great in camouflage gear.

Response by GySgt Andrew Breaux made Jul 8 at 2018 10:41 AM

2018-07-08T10:41:03-04:00

Work uniforms should be worn for
work! There are so many wannabe’s wearing cammies. They make us look bad. Separate the troops from the general population.

Response by SFC Mamerto Perez made Jul 12 at 2018 5:31 PM

2018-07-12T17:31:16-04:00

Yes, the camouflaged uniform should not be used for eating, shopping or Dr. appointment of post except if going or coming from work.

Response by Lt Col Keith Moore made Jul 19 at 2018 12:19 PM

2018-07-19T12:19:25-04:00

As a retiree with over 34 years, I wore 4 different uniform designs through my career. Many good points have been made here for both sides. The look, professionalism, pride in service, etc. However, the bottom line is cost (to service and individual) durability, and comfort. In my opinion, the only time most service members wear their service's dress uniform is for ceremony, funeral or other formal occasions. To save $, that should be the policy. Issue only one Service Dress and 6-sets of combat utility uniform. If we are to present the image of a professional fighting force, we need to look like we are ready to fight at a moment's notice - at home and abroad! LtCol. (Ret.) Keith Moore, U.S.A.F.

Response by PO1 William Van Syckle made Jul 22 at 2018 1:44 AM

2018-07-22T01:44:41-04:00

The military needs to return to wearing class A and B uniforms in garrison and off base. BDU/ACU/Cammies are for field work and dirty work. If you are wearing cammies that day, you should only wear them from home to work and back. Only stop should be for gas and nothing else. It appears to me that service members don’t like to wear class A or B . It’s like they are embarrassed by them. I was proud to wear my “Greens” and “Khakis” and would wear them every chance I could. That is the uniforms the public wants to see. They don’t want to see your combat uniform out in public and the Walmart or a restaurant. The military is getting lazy and it should stop.....

Response by Maj George Montgomery made Jul 22 at 2018 8:49 PM

2018-07-22T20:49:40-04:00

Been retired since 1982, so my thinking tends to be old school. But the best example I can think of is WWII look at films and newsreels from the era the troops in the field wore fatigues other wise it was class A or B. As an aside that was the last war we won unconditionally. I was in SAC AT Sheppard AFB 64-66 we were the only flying unit on an ATC BASE we were not allowed to even shop at BX in flightsuits, you went from your quarters to the SAC area direct.

Response by CPO Dave Royce made Jul 29 at 2018 1:39 PM

2018-07-29T13:39:27-04:00

We were never allowed to wear working uniform
Off base , you either worn UOD , or Civlian clothes . But times have changed , I just think it looks tacky , I just don’t see the pride in the Military or the wearing of the uniform , anymore

Response by Maj Dale Smith made Jul 29 at 2018 7:44 PM

2018-07-29T19:44:58-04:00

I would say every duty day should be in BDUs/flight suits and combat dress. All clean and servicable of course. In 1981 our base in South Dakota had an operational readyness inspection (ORI) and at the end of the 10 day inspection, the IG asked to have the managers of Pizza hut, McDonalds, Burger King, Bob's Big Boy and Wendy's all at the outbriefing. He asked the question to these managers of how it was that they knew to put on double shifts of personnel even before the entire base was alerted to an ORI? Their answer was that everyone wore class A or AF 1550 uniform combinations to work if they had a desk job, and all of a sudden everyone was in flight suits or fatigues (pre-BDU) uniforms and were picking up meals at odd times all at once. The fast food resaurants knew we had an ORI before those of us that flew did because the battle staff showed up in work uniforms. This is an indication to the outside world that something different was going on. By making every day (if you are not at the Pentigon or diplomatic staff) the same uniform, you do not telegraph a difference to an observing "third eye & ear". It works well, or at least makes the potential enemy work at getting their information. Keep going to work in velcro & zippers!

Response by SSG Robert Pratt made Jul 29 at 2018 8:18 PM

2018-07-29T20:18:16-04:00

While the camo uniform should be for field use only, I believe the only Service that still issues a work or fatigue uniform is the US Navy. The Army stopped issuing the fatigue uniform when the Woodland BDU was introduced. There has been no replacement issued since then.

Response by SFC Tereasa Menke made Jul 31 at 2018 7:42 PM

2018-07-31T19:42:59-04:00

They tried this once a long time ago however, “life issues” were more common as to validate reasons to not wear ur AR 700-84 items!!!

Response by SSgt Joseph Ovady made Aug 9 at 2018 11:27 AM

2018-08-09T11:27:04-04:00

When I served, were where not allowed to wear fatigues off station.

Response by SSgt Joseph Ovady made Aug 9 at 2018 11:30 AM

2018-08-09T11:30:14-04:00

The problem us so many civilians where bdu type clothing. It has become fashionable to wear camouflage and non of them even understand what military bearing means, because they have never served. There are a lot if clowns out there showing up at rally's with weapons that have never served. Charlottesville last year is a perfect example.

Response by MAJ Stephan Hill made Aug 9 at 2018 12:06 PM

2018-08-09T12:06:13-04:00

No, too many soldiers live off post to blanket ban camos from off post. I understand the practical benefits of wearing camo if you work in the motor pool, as well as the psychological value if you work at Division Headquarters. I would support a ban on wearing camo in bars and nightclubs.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2018 3:17 PM

2018-08-09T15:17:39-04:00

MARINE CORPS doesnt allow it anyways so the other branches would just have to do the same. It's really not a big deal and honestly I'm glad I dont go to the mall or just an outing in my uniform anyways

Response by Sgt Jeff Martin made Aug 14 at 2018 7:55 PM

2018-08-14T19:55:19-04:00

I served 74 to 84. Both the Army and Air Force. You would get article 15d if you were any where off base for any reason except to go home or to base. You were allowed to stop once to purchase gas and that was it. No excuse no exception.

Response by SSG James N. made Aug 15 at 2018 7:47 PM

2018-08-15T19:47:08-04:00

IF, you are ONLY stopping for gasoline, AND NOT going to SHOP in the store, I say it is OK, you need gas. For the rest of the other shitbirds, your camo uniform worn like trash looks like straight shit anywhere you go. Yes, IF you are wearing your camo uniform to the mall, you are a shitbird.
Me, I'll wear my DCU pants and a long sleeve shirt while I work a auto hammer kicking my ass to pound some 50 cal Damascus though!

Response by Sgt Michael Rogers made Aug 16 at 2018 5:40 PM

2018-08-16T17:40:14-04:00

I would work sat. Instead of going home to change clothes. I would wear my bdu to go eat at a friends place of ownership with friends we were respectful and no drinking. I was told it was a no no but it was on way home, And if people thought the greens were that bad, Time to get the uniform changed to a more appropriated.

Response by SGT John Graham made Aug 19 at 2018 3:17 PM

2018-08-19T15:17:29-04:00

In my humble opinion, bdu's belong on post. Not a restaurant, bar, mall, shopping, or off duty. My day it was breaking starch and shined / bloused boots, no hands in pockets, cover worn, and respect. A properly worn dress uniform was worn on public transit or civvies. When flying commercial a common practice was to seat a uniformed service member at emergency exits. It also got you upgraded once in a while.

Response by Sgt Daniel J. Daly made Aug 24 at 2018 11:55 PM

2018-08-24T23:55:19-04:00

When I was in the Marine Corps If you were a “Brown Bagger” and lived off base you could only drive to work with no stops. Office pinkie only wore Class C in the office. Of course we wore the Green utilities no camo back then. 1965-1969. In Vietnam we had Jungle Utilities w/o camo back then.

Response by CSM William Payne made Aug 26 at 2018 11:17 PM

2018-08-26T23:17:36-04:00

As someone that had to do extensive travel on a short schedule over my last several years in uniform, this is my take. There are Soldiers that will always look sloppy in Class A or B Uniforms and others that look square away in Army Combat Uniform (ACU) and the Optional Camouflage Pattern ACU or OCP.

Going back a few years the Army changed its policy on wearing any combat uniform while traveling commercial unless you were deploying to or returning from deployment. Now, if you need to wear your Army Service Uniform (ASU) at your destination, you are not going to mess it up wearing it on the flight. If you don’t need it at your destination, you just won’t take it. You will just go civilian on the aircraft.

Over the years flying in my ACUs often led to conversations with other passengers on the plane or in the airport about serving in the Army. This was an opportunity to educate civilians or even older Vets on what the Army was all about today. There was a time that almost everyone had someone in their family, a close friend or at least a neighbor that had served in the military. Since Vietnam and the All Volunteer Army, that is no longer the case. Some people live in cummunities that may either not know anyone that served in the military or aren’t aware of someone they know ever having served in the military. We have pretty much lost that opportunity.

Under orders there were many missions, where I would fly in early in the day, get picked up by the unit I was visiting, take care of business, head straight back to the Airport and fly home or to another unit. So having to change and pack your combat boots in your luggage was a hassle. But I understand the emphasis and appreciate the other services for having their policy.

When I entered the Army in 1973, at Bragg you could not wear your fatigues off the reservation, except for coming or going directly to work. They eventually modified that for stopping for gas, picking up your kid from school and a few other exceptions. Wendy’s on Bragg Boulevard as the first fast food restaurant with a drive up window and they made a fortune. From 1974 - 1977 I worked in a garrison situation, being a computer operator in COSCOM, and back then our normal duty uniform was fatigues.

I would support a policy of not wearing the combat uniform off post to the mall or other shopping establishments, drinking or entertainment venues or sit down and order restaurants.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Sep 10 at 2018 2:50 PM

2018-09-10T14:50:53-04:00

I don't know about special circumstances but unless you are on duty you should be wearing Class As in town, if you're wearing a uniform.

Response by PO1 Tom Follis made Sep 10 at 2018 9:00 PM

2018-09-10T21:00:19-04:00

I served in the Navy from 70-93 and retired as an E-6. I’m an East/West coast sailor, all points in between and been around the world 3 times. Ive been to places where dress uniforms were required on liberty and places where you don’t advertise. This was tried once in the Navy as I recall, that a sailor was allowed to wear the working uniform from work to home and back only. SERIOUSLY? They honestly trusted a sailor to abide by that rule? Sailors are known for breaking rules (or were). NEVER tell a sailor it’s ok to wear your work uniform home but, not in public. The first thing he’s gonna do is hit the bar. None of us have the luxury of saying what you can or can’t do and then expect everyone to play by the rules. If you’re one of those people, you’re living in a fantasy world. I disagree with wearing the work uniform off base simply because we have pit snipes (grease monkeys) and others that would get kicked out mommas house because of their appearance. You really want one of us sitting in a bar looking like that hitting on your little sister?

Response by CPL James Ross made Sep 12 at 2018 1:31 PM

2018-09-12T13:31:09-04:00

"Cams" only on Base

Response by CPL James Ross made Sep 12 at 2018 1:32 PM

2018-09-12T13:32:43-04:00

……. YES !!!!!!!

Response by CPO Dave Royce made Sep 13 at 2018 6:45 AM

2018-09-13T06:45:24-04:00

You know I started my career in the Marines,
We were never allowed to wear Utilities off base, but just yesterday my eight year old son ,
And I said individual walking around our apartment complex , wearing only his camouflage trouser and boots , no shirt , or tee shirt , there’s just no pride anymore , the new
Generation treats There being in the Military
As just another job , they don’t care what they look like in uniform . They don’t care what the
Public thinks , and I blame the upper echelon
For this. Back when I was a boy , my father would put on his uniform , and he looked sharp,
Everything had to be exact . As he always said
I dress this way because I’m representing the
Navy , sorry or rambling on .

Response by PO2 Bill Reardon made Sep 15 at 2018 2:24 AM

2018-09-15T02:24:48-04:00

I was stationed here in Staten Island before the navy moved here we went to some local entertainment spots after work in our OD GREENS. Had to play by the rules when the Fleeters showed up

Response by Maj Jim Thompson made Sep 19 at 2018 5:29 PM

2018-09-19T17:29:38-04:00

They won't change as the BDU hides alot of fat.

Response by SPC Jacob Hostetler made Sep 22 at 2018 11:21 PM

2018-09-22T23:21:25-04:00

Next thing your going say should the DOD ban assault weapons off military installations as well

Response by SGT Anthony Rossi made Sep 24 at 2018 4:07 PM

2018-09-24T16:07:44-04:00

Anything that promotes discipline and lifts the military to a "No one is more professional than I" mentality is the direction we should lean. With that perspective, in my opinion, the Battle Dress Uniform or similar uniforms should only be worn in a "Battle" or "field" type of assignment. In a volunteer military, those who have raised there hand to serve and "represent" their country in the highest form of service should desire to do so in the most professional manner.

Response by LTC John Wilson made Sep 27 at 2018 10:25 AM

2018-09-27T10:25:29-04:00

I an a dinasoar that Was used to having a work uniform Fatigues, Administratively (Khakis). Class A' were for off the military facility and Dress blues for Command functions. In garrison, for the administrative types, I thought the Tropical worsted uniform was the best, it was comfortable and looked good. Fatigues as we use to call them were great for all kinds of work and were not meant to be worn off base, except driving from base to home.
BDU's are a work uniform and think they should be allowed for use off base or to and from a military facility.s.
I just don't agree with all the services wearing Camouflaged uniforms (Unless Special units with a special mission, that makes them on call. And changing uniforms so often drains the budget from things that could make the servicemen and women quality of life more efficient.

Response by PO2 John Chalus made Sep 30 at 2018 2:12 PM

2018-09-30T14:12:03-04:00

The DoD should bam all camouflage uniforms with the exception of Spec Ops units.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2018 12:11 AM

2018-10-01T00:11:04-04:00

This merits concern?

Response by SSG Mike Angelo made Oct 3 at 2018 2:16 AM

2018-10-03T02:16:44-04:00

Only if such standard is enforceable and realistic. There will always be the what ifs and special considerations like parades.

Response by SSgt John Carter made Oct 7 at 2018 3:18 PM

2018-10-07T15:18:19-04:00

I miss entering military installations and seeing Dress uniforms. They’re rarely worn these days. There was a time when we could only wear “utility”uniforms to and from work.

Response by Edward Samsen made Oct 7 at 2018 8:02 PM

2018-10-07T20:02:14-04:00

For USCG and USCGAUX, limited stops between home and duty station. Gas, drive through or supermarket OK otherwise go home and change into civvies.

Response by PO3 Eric Erkkinen made Oct 9 at 2018 9:47 AM

2018-10-09T09:47:37-04:00

I think that in general, most people who wear thier acu/bdus off base are frowned on anyhow. Most civilians around bases don't treat military better than all others and most military people frown on them in public without it really even being said.
I'd prefer the dod put energy into lighter body armor and programs to speed up the implementation if better tools to keep people alive. I don't know of any hospitals that tell surgeons not to wear their scrubs outside the hospital, but many do, as they are comfortable (like acu/bdus are) and sometimes you just want to get home and change into your civies there.
Keep in mind too, that some weekend warriors who basically get no recognition otherwise for long tours that they didn't expect overseas, may only get that when they put their uniforms on for those weekend wargames, pats on the back, handshakes, free coffee, whatever. We have too much pride to ask for it, but it is kind of nice to be a hero in public after a c.o. rides your ass on a military installation about your insignia being out of whack or you just couldn't get things right that day..
Morale is a hard thing to keep up in the military. I've had too many friends off themselves because they had trouble in civilian life after the fact, and my feeling is that in our increasingly selfish world, a set of bdus can be a conversation starter that can change lives for real.
Just my own .02

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Oct 9 at 2018 10:10 AM

2018-10-09T10:10:31-04:00

I would say no however that depends. You should not wear it in bar or things like that but to and from work and quick stops then I would say no you are okay.

Response by MSgt Gary Miller made Oct 10 at 2018 1:21 AM

2018-10-10T01:21:09-04:00

I don't see that it really matters what uniform you wear or where you wear it as long as it's worn properly. I always thought it was silly to be so picky about where and where not on could wear their uniform.

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Oct 14 at 2018 8:38 PM

2018-10-14T20:38:34-04:00

I'm torn we weren't allowed to wear except for the field! The class A was for everything else but the bdu was a very comfortable wear and sometimes wish we could have worn it more regularly! That being said it's still a uniform and needs worn professionally I see people wearing all jacked up including the hat off to one side and it pisses me off!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2018 7:50 PM

2018-10-15T19:50:51-04:00

There is this thing called "Lunch" that has always been near and dear to my heart and had they told me that I could not leave post to go get some I would have had my feelings hurt very badly.

Response by SSgt David Hutchison made Oct 24 at 2018 7:48 AM

2018-10-24T07:48:23-04:00

Back in the day when I was in (1974-1994) we were allowed to wear our utility uniform (cammies) to and from work only. If you knew you were going to have to stop somewhere the you brought cities to work with you. Don’t use the excuse of no were to change. There are plenty of restroom aboard a base..

Response by SGT Lewis Ray Rains made Nov 1 at 2018 4:38 PM

2018-11-01T16:38:54-04:00

Yes! Work uniforms are/ should be, for Work!! Of Base, best foot forward, to include Dress Uniform's!! OLD SCHOOL!!

Response by SSG Ron Soronen made Nov 3 at 2018 10:31 AM

2018-11-03T10:31:59-04:00

I was at FT Sam in the early 90’s, BDU’s we’re not authorized off post. Same at FT Irwin a few years after (wasn’t really an “off post” place to go at Irwin anyway) I believe those were Post Commanders Orders, and pretty sure most commands have that discretion per installation anyway.

Response by A1C Josh Leduc made Nov 4 at 2018 5:42 PM

2018-11-04T17:42:11-05:00

Isn't the purpose of wearing a BDU or equivalent uniform to be ready to deploy at any moment?

Response by SFC John Fourquet made Nov 6 at 2018 11:28 AM

2018-11-06T11:28:01-05:00

Hell yes. I am tired of seeing fat ass NCOs at the mall food court.

Response by SGT Albert Boulay made Nov 6 at 2018 2:29 PM

2018-11-06T14:29:12-05:00

No, as long as they are traveling to and from home, going to lunch, or stopping at the store on the way home. Yes, if they are going to a bar or some where that serves alcohol after work.

Response by LTC Darrell Angleton made Nov 7 at 2018 6:31 PM

2018-11-07T18:31:27-05:00

No. Nothing wrong with wearing our duty uniform "out and about".

Response by SPC Darren Horsey made Nov 10 at 2018 7:35 PM

2018-11-10T19:35:59-05:00

No of course not, then how would you distinguish civilian from the differences in the two structures.. This is yhe base foundation that sets the two apart.soldier..There are great

Response by SFC Marcus Belt made Nov 14 at 2018 2:18 PM

2018-11-14T14:18:33-05:00

Does one or the other course of action have anything to do with killing people and breaking stuff, or facilitating same?

No? Then who cares? Are we worried about fighting and winning or marching in a parade?

And parades are stupid anyway.

Response by PV2 Ross Bryan made Nov 22 at 2018 9:24 AM

2018-11-22T09:24:52-05:00

I SAY HELL NO! IN THE EVENT A SERVICE PERSON LIVES OFF POST IN A RESIDENCE A LOT OF TIME WOULD BE WASTED BY CHANGING TWICE DAILY UPON ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE!
WHEN I WAS IN THE RESERVES IN THE NAM ERA I DID CHANGE UPON ARRIVAL AND DEPARTING DUE TO THE FACT I HATED BEING IN THE ARMY AND HATED MY UNIFORM, AND WOULD NOT WEAR IT UNTIL NECESSARY!
INTERESTINGLY AT THIS TIME I WAS MARRIED TO A WOMAN WHO HAD HER OWN FALSE VALOR ISSUES! SHE BECAME QUITE ENTHRALLED WITH THE GREEN BERET UNITS AFTER WATCHING A BARRY SADLER MOVIE!
I HAPPENED TO MENTION THERE WAS A BERETS RESERVE OUTFIT IN OUR RESERVE ARMORY BUILDING. SHE IMMEDIATELY WANTED ME TO TRANSFER OVER!
AT THIS TIME I WAS IN A NON COMBAT
PETROLEUM SUPPLY OUTFIT THAT I DELIBERATELY JOINED TO AVOID COMBAT!
OF COURSE I REFUSED TO TRANSFER, MUCH TO HER DISSATISFACTION! A WEEK LATER SHE TRIED TO WORK A COMPROMISE BY WEARING MY CLASS A UNIFORM WHEN WE WENT OUT TO A MOVIE OR DINNER!
AGAIN IT WAS A RESOUNDING HELL NO!!
AFTER THE DIVORCE I OFTEN WONDERED IF SHE EVER CAPTURED HER DREAM SOLDIER!!!
LOL!!

Response by PO1 Christopher Burian made Dec 2 at 2018 12:40 AM

2018-12-02T00:40:56-05:00

When I first started working with the Air Force when I got out of college, they wore blue shirts and trousers. When the service switched to camo BDUs I thought it was in bad taste that they wear them everywhere. IMO BDUs at most should only be authorized when commuting to and from work, or at work. That was the rule for dungarees when I was in the Navy. But shouldn't actually be the uniform at all when away from the battlefield. Army, Air Force or Navy, sitting at a desk in camo looks goofy, like hunting costumes or pajamas.

Response by SGT Donald Croswhite made Dec 2 at 2018 3:33 AM

2018-12-02T03:33:38-05:00

No, if service members have business outside post. It's not feasible to ban uniforms off post. That's ridiculous.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2018 2:44 PM

2018-12-04T14:44:39-05:00

Personally I hate seeing service members with uniforms in public off post areas after 2000 hours. It's no way you telling me you didn't have time to change. All stores and products need after that time in uniform should be conducted on post.

Response by SSgt Brandt Lancaster made Dec 5 at 2018 4:17 PM

2018-12-05T16:17:23-05:00

I can't speak for all branches and it may have changed. I only speak for the Marine Corps from the time i was in.
That being said we were only allowed to wear bdu's to and from transit to work and only allowed to make essential stops to gas station. Any Marine caught off base at a grocery store, convenient store, etc would get their ass reamed.
Also most all of our office pogs would wear the class charlie uniform with a few exceptions.
For the most part i agree that the bdu should not be worn out in town as a casual stroll through the store or what have you

Response by CWO3 Mark Davies made Dec 7 at 2018 12:26 PM

2018-12-07T12:26:29-05:00

Hell No

Response by LtCol William Tehan made Dec 8 at 2018 10:49 AM

2018-12-08T10:49:12-05:00

Fatigues (a term the Army used to use), utilities, flight suites, BDUs etc should only be worn on base and when in a private vehicle going to and from quarters/residences, without stops on the way. Service uniforms (with/without blouses, with long sleeve/short sleeve shirts, with sweaters and wind breakers should be the uniform required for off base wear and at major headquarters. The excuse, that I have heard several times in the past few years is “that we wear BDUs and Flight Suites to honor those deployed in the field” is a load of crap. When it comes to flight suites it is even more agregious. A mechanic, or tanker can’t wear their “overalls” away from the motor pool/tank park so aviators should not be able to wear flight suites off the flight line.
While working at a government agency a couple of years ago I witnessed an Air Force Brigadier General chew out an Army enlisted man because he didn’t salute him. The Brigadier General was wearing a ball cap and a flight suite. What the hell was the soldier to do ask the Air Force Guy to stop and let him read his name tag on the flight suite. That was the only place that the general was wearing any rank; he did not have rank on his shoulders as directed by his own service’s uniform regulations.

Response by PVT Greg Davis made Dec 8 at 2018 1:09 PM

2018-12-08T13:09:41-05:00

While I was a detachment commander with the 18th [ABN] Corps in the 1970s, it was forbidden [by Jimmy Carter] for us to wear our "fatigues" off-post" with an Article 15 [career ender for officers] as punishment. Later, at the Pentagon, Carter forbade Military personnel from wearing uniforms of any sort in public lest civilians be offended.
[That policy ended the day Reagan took office]

As for current policies, BDUs should be worn in deployment ready environments [e.g., combat units in training/prep]. Class A's, with award ribbon/decorations should be worn in other environments as it lends a bit of dignity to the soldier and elicits more respect from the civilian population -- most of whom are proud of our Military personnel.

Response by LTC Laura Wickett made Dec 9 at 2018 7:54 PM

2018-12-09T19:54:54-05:00

back in the seventies fatigues were not authorized to be worn off the installation unless someone was going directly home and only then could they make a shortstop into a drug store or grocery store.

Response by Sgt Daniel J. Daly made Dec 10 at 2018 12:13 AM

2018-12-10T00:13:21-05:00

My opinion is that anytime you go out that gate and you are not on official duty related work assignment. You should be in your class A ,B, or C or if going on liberty in civilian clothes. Also I believe there should be two types of utilities. The regular former Green blouse and trousers and black combat boots for every day work and the Camo uniform for field work with the proper boots.

Response by SPC Steve Willis, PhD made Dec 10 at 2018 6:00 PM

2018-12-10T18:00:59-05:00

Personally, I think REMFs should all wear Class A's so the Combat Arms folks in BDUs know at a glance who the enemy is!

Response by CPL Gary Syme made Dec 11 at 2018 1:04 PM

2018-12-11T13:04:43-05:00

While in the 6th EOD in Hi. we had to have a special letter with us when we left the base. We had a real world mission to support the LEOs in Hi with bomb disposal efforts and had an active bomber at the time in Hawaii. We also were on sep-rats, so stopping to eat when off the base in our cutv was a pain, even though we had a red light bar on most of our vehicles. We would had some officer asking us what we were doing and pulled out our letter and had show that person we had the clearance to be out and about with our green machine and in BDUs. Yep I'm old and the 6th isn't even around anymore. There should be 2 uniforms, dress fro special occasions and missions and ACU for everything else. ACU off base yes, ACU Pentagon yes. We shouldn't hide who we are. We should wear it proudly.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Dec 11 at 2018 3:50 PM

2018-12-11T15:50:02-05:00

Utility uniforms for wear on base. If have to wear... to gas station or quick mart and then home ..

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Dec 17 at 2018 4:08 AM

2018-12-17T04:08:54-05:00

Back in ancient times, each military branch had its rules for off base wear of uniforms. Air Force's was: only to and from off base residence, emergency stops ie, hospitals, day care centers. Army: about the same. NAVY unknown. MARINES: no utilities off base except went going to or coming off base residence or travelling to excercise areas aboard military vehicles. MARINES had to wear their Class A uniform or Class B. Then after many thoughtful centuries, they changed their minds. Wear of any type of uniform was authorized for any off base function except of course political rallies. As for cammies, did you see any one off base? Then they work perfectly.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2018 7:43 AM

2018-12-30T07:43:27-05:00

I'd like to see a return to service uniforms off base (except for travel to and from home), but I'm not sure it's worth pushing on all service members. I'm high enough rank to wear my khakis to work if it really matters to me... also, I'm a mustang over twenty, so it's kind of hard to tell me not to, anyways.

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Dec 31 at 2018 10:18 AM

2018-12-31T10:18:01-05:00

No utility (camo) off base unless traveling to or from home. No camouflage on base if you perform administrative type duties, unless going to the field. Standard duty uniform for those in combat units.

Response by LTC Leonard M. Manning, Sr made Jan 21 at 2019 1:00 AM

2019-01-21T01:00:22-05:00

When I served in my early career (1972 - 1977) I was told that yo could wear your fatigues to and from work during duty hours. However, from 1800 if you were going to be in uniform it had to be "Dress Uniform ". I never wore my combat uniform after 1800, As a matter of fact I can remember taking my first wife to the movies on post and wearing my class A uniform to the theater.

Response by MSgt Michael Webster made Jan 21 at 2019 11:27 AM

2019-01-21T11:27:46-05:00

The wear of any uniform off duty is incidental. Like the Colonel stated military types usually project out a persona that is apparent to the observer. In Germany during the 70's we were the ones with the short haircuts and projecting strength and military bearing. Living 24/7 in uniforms was never the intent unless in combat situations but having a meal stopping to make a short shopping trip is okay. A military member's professional judgement should be sufficient in most cases.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2019 7:56 PM

2019-01-21T19:56:40-05:00

While almost all these comments are valid in one way or another, it would not be practical for all soldiers. I work in supply, and while the first hour or so may be behind a desk, an hour in a supply room, followed by receiving, then the motor pool, then back at the desk. It wouldn't be practical for most. Might be for a 42A but not for most.

Response by CPO Lou Oliver made Feb 5 at 2019 2:03 PM

2019-02-05T14:03:06-05:00

Why? Is the military ashamed of them? I know that the Navy was ashamed of the dungaree uniform when I was active, and it could not be worn off base. However, it was in all the movies that showed naval personnel. Wearing Whites while pulling lines when the ship was pulling into port was just plan ass show boating.

Response by Ramiro Ochoa made Feb 10 at 2019 4:11 AM

2019-02-10T04:11:04-05:00

That's already the case with the MCCUU. Not allowed to used it outside of base, only on emergency occasions. https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/886531/wear-of-the-marine-corps-combat-utility-uniform/

WEAR OF THE MARINE CORPS COMBAT UTILITY UNIFORM The Official United States Marine Corps Public...

UNCLAS 251400Z JUL 07 CMCUCTO AL ALMAR(UC)ALMARALMAR 035/07MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC CMC//SUBJ/WEAR OF THE MARINE CORPS COMBAT UTILITY UNIFORM//POC/YA2 M. BOYT/-/MCUB/-/TEL:-(703)432-4607 OR DSN 378-4607 /EMAILMARY.BOYT@USMC.MIL//GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.,

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2019 1:09 PM

2019-02-10T13:09:28-05:00

I agree that you shouldn't be wearing them for a non work-related bop around town. As for whether or not we should wear OCP's outside of the field, I'm probably one of the few people that's actually looking forward to the Pink & Green's, because I think they present a far more professional outward appearance for people who earn most of their LES's behind a desk, like Reservists/National Guard or recruiters.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2019 1:58 PM

2019-02-10T13:58:29-05:00

OCPs are the duty uniform. Unless you can get DOD to pay for the upkeep of constantly wearing ASUs, this is a very dumb idea.
If you want to make a difference in appearance then start holding soldiers accountable on uniform discipline.
You also have to realize how many jobs in the Army can actually wear ASUs to work. Too many daily dirty jobs. Because of this, you cannot implement ASUs because there will not be less uniformity and less one team one fight. You will also make another reason to divide soldiers.
There are already rules against wearing OCPs to go shopping but nobody will enforce it!

Response by SPC Barry Bartelt II made Feb 11 at 2019 12:26 PM

2019-02-11T12:26:58-05:00

.My 2 cents is that they want the military visible in combat like uniforms to keep the populace aware that those places exist. A further 2 cents is that we need to have easily presentable non combat uniforms meaning; not something that requires pressed all the time or something that presses very quickly just securing pockets, collars etc. I think the biggest boundary to that is the usage of Velcro on uniforms. Velcro makes making ACUs presentable a very significant challenge for anyone, much less a sleepy E-3. The uniform needs to be easily cared for, sharp looking not and requiring much pressing if any... and with how easy it is to dress in civilian clothes to a dressy casual standard, this should not be a problem to come up with a cheap presentable non-combat option that could be acceptable for any rank or service. The people are reminded that we are out there among them we have something that isn't a nightmare in and of itself to simply wear and also have the added benefit of a more reasonable standard so that those who look good don't need to worry about those who don't so much.

Something well enough made that if I had to roll around in the mud in it it wouldn't simply fall apart something that says "work" but also something that doesn't have dangling and extra pockets that 1 simply won't need in a civilian setting. a nice pair of cargo pants a polo shirt a nice polo shirt. One specifically designed to not have patches in all the right places To mimic a uniform in the classical sense but 1 that can be suitably used and present rank unit affiliations and have a place for decorations and other identifiers as well. Either a nice heavyweight polo or Oxford with its own set easily maintained regulations and a pair of cargo khakis preferably rip stop. ...Whatever uniform boots fit the colors and require they not be filthy. Just Not fresh from the field op dirty. Ball cap style cover. In my service I spent a fair amount of time in settings that would have been much more appropriately handled in what I'm describing than what we were wearing. what we were wearing tended to take away from the mission. It would also have the ancillary benefit of contributing to the already well established "military-textile" complex.

Response by SPC Barry Bartelt II made Feb 11 at 2019 1:04 PM

2019-02-11T13:04:04-05:00

My 2 cents is that they want the military visible in combat like uniforms to keep the populace aware that those places exist. A further 2 cents is that we need to have easily presentable non combat uniforms meaning; not something that requires pressed all the time or something that presses very quickly just securing pockets, collars etc. I think the biggest boundary to that is the usage of Velcro on uniforms. Velcro makes making ACUs presentable a very significant challenge for anyone, much less a sleepy E-3. The uniform needs to be easily cared for, sharp looking not and requiring much pressing if any... and with how easy it is to dress in civilian clothes to a dressy casual standard, this should not be a problem to come up with a cheap presentable non-combat option that could be acceptable for any rank or service. The people are reminded that we are out there among them we have something that isn't a nightmare in and of itself to simply wear and also have the added benefit of a more reasonable standard so that those who look good don't need to worry about those who don't so much.

Something well enough made that if I had to roll around in the mud in it it wouldn't simply fall apart something that says "work" but also something that doesn't have dangling and extra pockets that 1 simply won't need in a civilian setting. a nice pair of cargo pants a polo shirt a nice polo shirt. One specifically designed to not have patches in all the right places To mimic a uniform in the classical sense but 1 that can be suitably used and present rank unit affiliations and have a place for decorations and other identifiers as well. Either a nice heavyweight polo or Oxford with its own set easily maintained regulations and a pair of cargo khakis preferably rip stop. ...Whatever uniform boots fit the colors and require they not be filthy. Just Not fresh from the field op dirty. Ball cap style cover. In my service I spent a fair amount of time in settings that would have been much more appropriately handled in what I'm describing than what we were wearing. what we were wearing tended to take away from the mission. It would also have the ancillary benefit of contributing to the already well established "military-textile" complex.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2019 7:32 PM

2019-02-11T19:32:47-05:00

I really think this falls in the realm of things that do not really matter. The military as a whole needs to start focusing on asking questions driven towards making us more combat effective. Four new uniforms in as many years does nothing to increase our combat readiness, just like questioning whether or not soldiers "should be allowed" to wear said uniform off post does nothing. We are an institution of war before anything else and I'm of the opinion that we need to start trimming the bull****, and start setting our minds towards winning our next war.

Response by CPT Phil Bronner made Feb 11 at 2019 11:53 PM

2019-02-11T23:53:12-05:00

Back in my old NCO days, as an E-5 living off post (Fort Riley) in Manhattan Kansas (right across the street from the K-State campus), the rule was, wearing of Fatigues was authorized to and from the post only...no stops. Of course...that was pre-cammo days..LOL...which dates me!! If you wanted to shop, etc. you had to go home, change and THEN do your shopping, etc.
Didn't see a problem with it then...perhaps the military has gotten too lax in not enforcing people running around in battle dress off post!

Response by Cpl Abraham Rios made Feb 12 at 2019 4:33 AM

2019-02-12T04:33:35-05:00

I think the Acu uniform should be authorized to be worn only during garrison work or after work hours on base only ... not to be authorized off base. i.e. to the mall, theater, restaurants unless going thru the drive thru.. ect.ect...only authorized places off base should be gas stations to put gas in vehicles only unless it's an emergency..same goes for the P.T. uniform

Response by SPC Randy Torgerson made Feb 12 at 2019 11:58 AM

2019-02-12T11:58:41-05:00

No, I don't see an issue with this. What difference dose it make? Anyone can buy and wear these and similar outfits whether your hunting or shopping... Simply because your an active soldier you can't wear your uniform that your proud to wear.....

Response by CW2 Bruce Greiner made Feb 12 at 2019 12:12 PM

2019-02-12T12:12:45-05:00

When I first joined in the last millennia the uniform rules were very clear that wearing of “fatigue” or work uniforms off based was not permitted except for brief stoppages to pick up laundry or something like bread or milk. This was stringently enforced up to and including Article 15s for repeat offenders. After I retired, I was shocked to see soldiers traveling on commercial airlines in BDUs/ACUs as if they were jumping off the airplane and into a Buffalo on the front lines. Most of them were not on their way to Afghanistan or Iraq but to a domestic base or overseas bases not located in a combats zone. The rationale was we were at war. I am not sure the Pentagon is a war zone (Though I am sure some will make the case). I have always felt that if you have to travel it should be the dress uniform if civilian clothing is not permitted. Off base, I also feel that wear of work uniforms should be limited to maybe lunch but not for full time off duty wear. As for on base, the Army got rid of the uniform of the day in the 70’s. I am not sure bringing back UOD is a good thing.

Response by Sgt Gary Moss made Feb 12 at 2019 5:00 PM

2019-02-12T17:00:08-05:00

We were not allowed to wear our cammies off base for any reason (1985-1991)

Response by Sgt Jude Eschete made Feb 12 at 2019 5:27 PM

2019-02-12T17:27:26-05:00

Marine Corps already does that. Utilities are a work uniform, they are not to be worn off base unless stopping for gas (pay at pump), or to and from the vehicle.

I actively discourage wearing ANY uniform off base unless it is a special service related event, but that's just the OpSec part of me thinking as utilities and service uniforms but a big target on you and call out where you live, where you travel, etc...

I would get to base early and go to the gym so I would leave the house in civilian PT Attire, At the end of the day I would go to the gym again, so I would again be arriving home in civilian PT attire.

Response by Cpl Devan Twilley made Feb 12 at 2019 6:15 PM

2019-02-12T18:15:25-05:00

Abso-fucking-lutely I cannot STAND seeing little boots walking around campus in their national guard camis. Or in the store or anywhere. I think it’s disgusting as if their high and tights don’t already show it. Idk if they think it’s cool or it’s gonna get them laid but I was a marine so I was never able to do that and I was a grunt so I never even wanted to be in my camis for a second longer than I had to as soon as our day of chillin, ruckin, shootin or skull draggin was over I basically jumped out of them. I will never understand why I see people all over town a hundred miles away from any military base in their Camis like wtf u doin bro? I know what it is they want attention. I’m sure they get it and it makes their little pee pees hard but Jesus man. Knock it off

Response by TSgt Ronald Foreback made Feb 12 at 2019 6:46 PM

2019-02-12T18:46:25-05:00

I have always believed they were not to be worn off base except for quick stops. We were the old OD green fatigues and bdus . I remember recently on a flight to Cincinnati and there was a CMsgt in his acu's on the flight. Thought it looked bad and sent the wrong signal. Also, why are servicemembers no longer required to wear uniform on space-a flights? Times change, not for the good sometimes. JMHO

Response by 1SG Marc Jensen made Feb 12 at 2019 7:38 PM

2019-02-12T19:38:04-05:00

Hahaha, no.

The camouflage uniform is the utility uniform....for general use. The class A/B uniforms are neither functional for 99% of servicemembers nor issued in quantities for daily wear. The only worse option would be requiring servicemembers to travel in civilians and then change three or four times a day - who is going to provide the unit locker rooms with adequate, secure storage to make that a reality.

Response by COL Robert Hall made Feb 12 at 2019 8:41 PM

2019-02-12T20:41:51-05:00

How many times do we need to see this movie? Fifty years ago, “no fatigues off post/base.” If you wore fatigues as duty uniform, you couldn’t stop off post going or coming from duty. That policy eventually got fixed. Now, we want to revert? If the uniform is good enough to die in, it’s good enough to wear off post/base.

Response by Sgt James Fairman made Feb 12 at 2019 10:18 PM

2019-02-12T22:18:06-05:00

Never was allowed to wear out in town. Maybe just adopt the Marines policy. I don’t see why it’s so hard to change at work.

Response by LTC John R. made Feb 13 at 2019 8:02 AM

2019-02-13T08:02:43-05:00

I personally have always felt that it's inappropriate to wear fatigue uniforms in certain settings, such as the Pentagon, at civilian intelligence agencies, the White House, etc.. The dress code for everyone else is business attire, and the military ought to be in class B's for everyday wear, and Class A for important visitors, etc. Out on military bases camo is fine.

Response by PO1 Don Schultz made Feb 13 at 2019 9:29 AM

2019-02-13T09:29:57-05:00

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Feb 14 at 2019 6:16 AM

2019-02-14T06:16:44-05:00

When I went to my first duty station (Germany), I was in Class A uniform. Every other time I was in Civilian attire.

Response by Mitchell Kamlay made Feb 14 at 2019 1:46 PM

2019-02-14T13:46:37-05:00

Go to the tool store. Most patrons are in camouflage! Hunters and outdoors people wear them all the time. Silly comment by the author. Close all the sporting goods stores?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 2:22 AM

2019-02-15T02:22:23-05:00

I'll just say this......
Yes ...No One should be out shopping (or strolling) around in a Mall while in BDU's or ACU's.
That being said, through out my whole career, it has been accepted a "social norm"
(we learned and this in PLDC) that during meal time it is (or at least was)
allowed to go to a Restaurant, or a Fast Food place to eat.
With that also being said, going Home (if you live Off Base) people will have to do things like stop at a Gas station, or a bank, or if commanded by their "Class A Dependent" (AKA Spouse)
stop at a store to pick up an item or two, or even pick up a "take out" dinner for home.

but yes ...the BDU and ACU is not a set of "Stepping Out" clothes.
and anyone with Common sense should and would know that

Keeping all this in mind, we all have to remember,
there was once a time when we as service members
were not even allowed to have "civies"....
so you just have to take the good with the bad

Response by SSG Patrick Akers made Feb 15 at 2019 2:29 AM

2019-02-15T02:29:20-05:00

unless things have changed, this was the rule. No wearing of battle dress off of military installations, when off duty, except for quick stops to get necessities at the grocery store, gas, etc. I dared not to even go to a sit in restaurant after work while still in BDUs. Now I see guys constantly at the airport flying solo in their BDUs or equivalent name. It was encouraged not to stand out like a sore thumb! And if you were to wear a class A uniform for travel, you had better wear it to the highest of standards, and conduct yourself professionally.

Response by MSgt Bedell Toro made Feb 15 at 2019 11:08 AM

2019-02-15T11:08:49-05:00

In the Marine Corps, the Cammies are for wear on base or traveling to and from home. Any Marine conducting any type of bussines outside of base has to wear Class A,B, or C uniform. I'm puzzle why the other branches let their Service members roam all public places in their Camouflage uniform.

Response by SFC David Cooper made Feb 15 at 2019 12:53 PM

2019-02-15T12:53:38-05:00

Soldiers working in RPCs (Regional Personnel Centers) Finance and other such locations should be dressed accordingly. This would give a more professional appearance to their customers. The Combat Uniform is not supposed to be worn off post unless you are going home or making a short stop at a store, at least that was the III Corps Standard a few years ago.

Response by SFC David Cooper made Feb 15 at 2019 12:56 PM

2019-02-15T12:56:21-05:00

Yes, additionally those working in a business type of environment should be wearing business attire.

Response by LTC John Wilson made Feb 16 at 2019 9:08 PM

2019-02-16T21:08:47-05:00

No! It is your work attire and as long as it is clean it should not be banned. UPS, Fedex, amongst others wear there’s to and from work. Why should DOD be different?

Response by 1stSgt Nelson Kerr made Feb 17 at 2019 1:38 AM

2019-02-17T01:38:13-05:00

If someone can think of a practical reason ofnthatvrestiction In will be amazed.

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Feb 17 at 2019 6:48 PM

2019-02-17T18:48:10-05:00

Guys, I've been out for a long time but I see absolutely nothing wrong with fatigues off base. Let's face it...half the civilians are wearing parts of them anyway and it is a mark of honor even if those who serve are embarrassed when civilians think that way. Wear them with pride and stop worrying about it. I've been a fireman now for twenty eight years and we don't run around in our dress uniforms!

Response by SFC Ken Heise made Feb 17 at 2019 7:02 PM

2019-02-17T19:02:21-05:00

AR-670-1 and DA PAM 670-1 already state the ACU is not to be worn off post.

Response by MSgt Ken Tener made Feb 17 at 2019 9:18 PM

2019-02-17T21:18:18-05:00

No! Does the average joe CIVILIAN mechanic wear a different set of cloths to work? So why would you expect a military professional ro do the same? You wear what the job requires! Im guessing you are a jealous office dweeb who wants to turn your nose down at the hard working field troops you cant associate with!

Response by CPT Keith Whitter made Feb 22 at 2019 10:43 PM

2019-02-22T22:43:39-05:00

Regretfully disagree. The soldiers wear these uniforms every day to conduct their duties. Why make them go through another change of clothes to run to the bank to handle something or some other innocuous situation.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2019 7:31 PM

2019-02-24T19:31:15-05:00

I don't see any harm in wearing the OCP or even the PT uniform off post if you are on the way home and need to stop for fuel, groceries, or other errands. Furthermore, I have no problem with the OCP if you are meeting with someone for dinner (as long as you DON'T drink!); what if you live an hour out of the way?! After working all day, I am too tired to change until I get home and can finally change into my pajamas. I look darn good in any uniform I wear, I worked very hard to earn my right to wear it, and I am proud to be an honorable representative of the Army!

Response by MSgt Jim Craig made Mar 11 at 2019 1:28 PM

2019-03-11T13:28:50-04:00

Early in my fist enlistment in the Corps we were not permitted to wear Utilities off base. In fact were were also prohibited from denims to go on liberty. When we went to the Duty NCO to get our liberty cards we were inspected and not given a card until we changed in to acceptable civilian attire.

Response by SGT Reinaldo Rios made Mar 29 at 2019 10:09 AM

2019-03-29T10:09:57-04:00

it depends … if the level of risk for the troops is high the common sense is force protection and make the proper exercise to keep safe the personal, even if they are in the home land. but feel so good wear uniform no matter if you are in or out post. The majority of civilians show respect and gratitud for us when they saw our personal in uniform. happy day...frm sgt R RIOS.

Response by PO2 Kim Manley made Mar 31 at 2019 10:54 AM

2019-03-31T10:54:58-04:00

And just a comment on protocol. When any service member is riding a motor cycle they are required to wear a reflective vest in the USA or anywhere in the world. Certain EU countries require all riders to do the same. My experience comes from Florida and Middle Tennessee. If they are being targeted it is like them wearing a billboard saying here I am. In the 50 years of riding on the street I could count the number of safety bus wearing a reflective vest on one finger (A Goldwinger/BMW nerd).

Response by SSG Jess Peters made Mar 31 at 2019 11:44 PM

2019-03-31T23:44:24-04:00

Other than a stop at a gas station or a grocery store on the way home it should not be allowed.

Response by SP5 Wilbert Jennings made Apr 4 at 2019 11:04 PM

2019-04-04T23:04:53-04:00

Yep, in 1968 through 1971 we were not allowed to be in the public in Fatigues. That was considered a work uniform and unless your fighting the enemy there is no need to be dressed to do so while in country. Pretty much the same with a police officer.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Apr 14 at 2019 4:44 PM

2019-04-14T16:44:43-04:00

No.
If they are good enough to die in they are good enough to wear down main street.

Response by PO2 Johna Renee made Apr 18 at 2019 6:35 AM

2019-04-18T06:35:28-04:00

Having worked both dirty positions and in an office setting, I gotta tell you it's a comfort thing. Plus Camo was easier to take care of, and to me, made me "feel" more military than any dress or casual uniform.

Response by PO2 Johna Renee made Apr 18 at 2019 6:38 AM

2019-04-18T06:38:56-04:00

Also I agree that stops necessary on the way home (groceries, daycare, cleaners etc) should be allowed but no not just hanging out at the mall , or getting Mani pedis (I have seen that!)

Response by Sgt Diego Rodriguez made Apr 24 at 2019 11:09 AM

2019-04-24T11:09:17-04:00

Kinda figured a Marine would post this. Granted yeah I'm already out and it doesn't really apply to me but to be honest it just looks retarded to wear you uniform out in town (service and cammies). On base is fine, but for opsec purposes it really all depends on the situation. A function and junk is great but you don't want to be sticking out like a sore thumb. But if anything the attitude and constant moto stuff people wear should be to a minimum. Our enemies should never be aware of our presence, and we should be able to easily blend in to the populace.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2019 6:30 PM

2019-05-05T18:30:06-04:00

Yes, field uniforms are for the field or when the work is of a nature that would ruin or not be appropriate for a regular uniform. Field uniforms should never, repeat NEVER be worn off base in public. To and from duty if not exiting a vehicle off base. Nothing looks less professional than a sad sack in bdu's going in the wal-mart.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made May 8 at 2019 1:19 PM

2019-05-08T13:19:05-04:00

YES!

Response by LTC John Wilson made May 19 at 2019 9:28 AM

2019-05-19T09:28:40-04:00

I agree. BDU’s r s work or field uniform. Admin positions should be a modified class A type uniform.

Response by MSgt Michael Madden made May 23 at 2019 10:51 PM

2019-05-23T22:51:35-04:00

I retired in 2007 and the policy at my base was that you could not eat in an off base restaurant in BDUs. Now I see troops eating off base in their utility uniforms. Times change.

Response by SrA Les Dunaway made Jun 3 at 2019 8:53 AM

2019-06-03T08:53:08-04:00

Yes

Response by SGT Nickolas Ortiz made Jun 6 at 2019 10:20 PM

2019-06-06T22:20:03-04:00

In my day, 1985-1993, we were NOT allowed to wear our BDU uniforms off post unless we were going to or from work. Once you were released for the day, you could stop off at a store for provisions, but that's about it. Going to dinner? Change out of your uniform. Taking your kids to the park? Change your uniform. Traveling? Unless it was a Military flight, you wore Civilian dress.

Response by Maj Maria Avellaneda made Jun 10 at 2019 4:25 PM

2019-06-10T16:25:01-04:00

The Unit commander dictates the uniform of the day. Right after 9-11, we were all required to go to work on Saturdays and to wear fatigues. We were/are a purple unit. Personnel belongs to all Services and of course civilians. The commander dictated the use of fatigues because the country was at war. So yes, if the uniform of the day is fatigues, yes you can go everywhere in fatigues. It is very common this days to see soldiers in places like airports, because it is the uniform of the day.

Response by Maj Maria Avellaneda made Jun 10 at 2019 4:46 PM

2019-06-10T16:46:53-04:00

Our country is a tuned to what is going on. The military function and place in society is completely different now than20-30 years ago. There is nothing dirty due to work about fatigues. Fatigues like all uniforms are a source of pride,

Response by Sgt Greg Creech made Jun 13 at 2019 10:22 AM

2019-06-13T10:22:46-04:00

Going to and from base should be ok but no stopping at 7-11 for coffee.

Response by CSM Robert J. "Bob" Parr, RD made Jun 21 at 2019 5:41 PM

2019-06-21T17:41:39-04:00

There are three general types of uniforms: field, service, and dress. Field uniforms should never be worn off post unless enroute quarters or in an emergency.

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Jun 24 at 2019 6:09 AM

2019-06-24T06:09:43-04:00

This is a subject that's gotten my attention whenever I'm around a military base in recent years. I know I'm showing my age with this post. When I was in, wearing fatigues, the green unies that have morphed into BDU/ACU, was strictly limited to on-post. Unless you were on a work detail, fatigues were an unauthorized uniform outside the gate. If a soldier had off-post housing, he went straight to work and straight home. No stopping for a coffee or a gallon of milk. Off post activities were done in Class A's or civvies. We managed to muddle thru doing this. There might be some initial grumbling, but if the DoD made it happen again, the troops would get used to it.

Response by SSgt John R Becker made Jul 1 at 2019 1:36 PM

2019-07-01T13:36:25-04:00

I fully agree with this train of thought When I was in the USAF the only time you were allowed to be wearing your fatigues was if you lived off base and it was to and from work to your quarters and back to base to work. Otherwise you were in your Blues or your 1505's

Response by SFC Russell Bettinger made Jul 2 at 2019 7:59 PM

2019-07-02T19:59:15-04:00

Should only have BDU,same style for all Branches, would save Government millions. Too and from Duty good to go , but to wear instead of civilian when of Duty would depend where stationed

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2019 10:06 PM

2019-07-12T22:06:35-04:00

I think so. As a Marine, I couldn't grab milk or a loaf of bread on the way home, and they grudgingly let us stop for gas. It annoys the crap out of me when I see guys in ACU's chilling out at the mall.

Response by PO2 John King made Jul 17 at 2019 7:36 AM

2019-07-17T07:36:52-04:00

No, We as Americans need to see our military member in uniform be it BDU'S or other class uniforms. that way we can tell ten how proud we are of them for there service.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2019 8:01 AM

2019-07-17T08:01:25-04:00

https://www.facebook.com/ [login to see] 4589/posts/ [login to see] 66029?s=22623331&v=e&sfns=mo

Oxygen thieves like this make it easy to see why a ban on uniforms off base can help perception.

Soldier Gets in Confrontation in the Parking Lot

Savannah, GA military soldier is now in custody after getting into a verbal confrontation with other drivers over a parking spot. He's also seen roughing...

Response by SPC Joseph Nowosielski made Jul 17 at 2019 5:23 PM

2019-07-17T17:23:11-04:00

My first thought is recruiting; how could you have the DoD ban the wear of camo uniforms and still expect recruitment to do its job. Yes, recruiters are class b or a but they still use the camouflage as a means of attracting recruits especially at events.

I saw some comments where they said no camo at funerals. That’s rough if everyone from a unit is going to a funeral and back to work. I was at Ft Hood when we lost, I think it was, six soldiers in a helicopter training accident. Everyone in attendance was in their ACU’s the place was packed and only those conducting the ceremony were in their Class A’s. I also remember their was 3Corps standing order that soldiers were not allowed to go to the mall in their uniform. At least that’s what I was told, that said I often saw soldiers shopping at Walmart in uniform as they we stopping on the way home. It seems unreasonable to require soldiers to not be allowed to stop at a store on the way home from work.

Response by SGT Don Perkison made Jul 23 at 2019 11:59 AM

2019-07-23T11:59:25-04:00

Yes.

Response by CPL Brian Clouser made Aug 4 at 2019 5:29 PM

2019-08-04T17:29:48-04:00

I already thought it was. I was always told that Class C was not to be worn off base UNLESS going to and from home. Only Class A/Bs were allowed to be worn off base. The rules seem to change after 9/11 with troops coming home for leave from the war. I always change into cilvlieASAP because of what I was taught

Response by PO1 Randy Horelica made Aug 9 at 2019 6:26 PM

2019-08-09T18:26:03-04:00

Seen too many army and air force in cammies in restaurants. While in the navy we couldn't wear dungarees to and from base. I say to and from work only.

Response by Sgt Earl Poindexter made Aug 9 at 2019 7:09 PM

2019-08-09T19:09:54-04:00

USMC 1970/1976, it was against regulations to wear “utilities” off base unless performing authorized duties. I see active duty soldiers wearing camo whole on leave and it still makes me cringe.

Response by SN Mike Duffy made Aug 9 at 2019 8:52 PM

2019-08-09T20:52:46-04:00

We couldn't wear blue coveralls off the ship. 1980s. Couldn't wear dungarees off base. So, yes.

Response by SPC Randall PeQueen made Aug 9 at 2019 10:40 PM

2019-08-09T22:40:02-04:00

I never wore ANY uniform off base. Unless I was going home or to work.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Aug 10 at 2019 10:45 PM

2019-08-10T22:45:57-04:00

at the border crossing in Kuwait, briefing on stuff in Iraq, part of it being in uniform at all times - my Plt Sgt (bless his black heart) spouted up with " I wouldn't put much in that, those statements are made by a Sgt Maj who drives an SUV with A/C and a CD player" and the briefing people didn't say a single word.

Response by PO1 Edward Speary made Aug 26 at 2019 5:49 PM

2019-08-26T17:49:26-04:00

why is the navy wearing camoflage anyway?

Response by LTC Charles Lauderdale made Sep 2 at 2019 5:25 PM

2019-09-02T17:25:52-04:00

Oh no, here comes another war story from one of those old school guys! Yeah your right, so just knock off the chatter and listen up! Two lieutenants were sitting at the main counter in a bar just off the post enjoying a couple of cold ones just about 1620 hours one Friday afternoon. In walks two older but very fit appearing gentleman in neat slacks and pullover shirts with collars. Both sit at the main counter with only one stool separating them from the lieutenants. The gentleman closest to the lieutenants leans in their direction and politely interrupts by saying: "Excuse me, How's the beer in here?" The nearest lieutenant responds; "It's fine and very cold." The gentleman then states; "But, it is very expensive right?" The lieutenant becoming irritated responds; "Hell man, it is only .80 cents per bottle." The gentleman with a slight smile on his face states in a quite voice, but with a firm tone; "No, those two beers you young gentlemen are drinking are $100.80 in that you are setting in a bar before the retreat bugle has blown in your fatigues!" You see, the two older gentlemen were none other than the post commander and the post sergeants major during personal checks to confirm all the reports they had received about officers leaving the post before retreat and wearing fatigues off post. PS. Sorry, forgot to tell you young guys. Fatigues is what we old school guys wore to work and to battle about a hundred years ago. Soldier/Cop/Grunt, Retired

Response by SFC Michael W. made Sep 4 at 2019 4:07 PM

2019-09-04T16:07:10-04:00

You should not be wearing them around places like the mall (unless you specially need to be there), but whether you work in the motorpool or admin I think you should be wearing your BDU/ACU/ABU uniform while on duty. You never know where or when you're going someplace on garrison where your camo uniform is "recommended" regardless of branch.

Response by PO2 Bill Jones made Sep 5 at 2019 9:53 AM

2019-09-05T09:53:13-04:00

When I was in the Navy, we were only allowed to leave base in the uniform of the day, dress whites or dress blues, or civilian clothes. We could not leave base in flight suits or squadron work clothes.

Response by CW5 Dennis Stewart made Sep 6 at 2019 1:21 PM

2019-09-06T13:21:57-04:00

This issue is not a new one. In the 70's we were told not to wear OD ( yes I wore OD Green) and then later BDU off base as there was a fear of attack by young people angry about the war. Later that was relaxed to allow a trip to local market on the way home. In the 90's it was class B in the office. BDU if you were going to field. In the 2000's ( yes I served 40 years) it was "we at war everybody wear ACU all the time. So I think Common sense should rule. Quick trip in out of grocer, but not all day long at the mall

Response by SSG William Hull made Sep 6 at 2019 4:18 PM

2019-09-06T16:18:21-04:00

BDU's are a duty/work uniform and should not be worn outside of that context. That used to be the rule and still should be. I recall be required to travel in class A's or B's when traveling under orders. Any off post travel, other than directly to and from my duty station was in Class A's, B's or civilian clothes.

Response by SFC Paul Smith made Sep 6 at 2019 5:20 PM

2019-09-06T17:20:58-04:00

ACU/BDU is a field uniform, Class B if in an office. I was AGR in a Guard unit had to do both admin and supply. Kept BDUs in supply room if needed but up front in the office was in Class B. I understood the switch to BDUs after 9/11. But time to revert, maybe with the return to "pink's and greens" time to bring back the khaki uniform.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2019 5:28 PM

2019-09-06T17:28:11-04:00

I get not wearing any uniform outside duty, with reasonable exceptions, like lunch break off post, or drop by the grocery store to grab milk or diapers, but I'd think with the "AC" I've seen provided at many military offices locations leaves much to be desired, class As would just be a sweating mess.Well fitted and maintained OCP uniforms are plenty presentable just don't wear your field uniforms to the office.

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made Sep 6 at 2019 9:26 PM

2019-09-06T21:26:16-04:00

If a service member is on official duty and has official business in the civilian sector then the answer is no. However when not in an official status i.e. off duty then service member must go directly home and change into civilian attire if not in a dress type uniform. Also vise versa when reporting for duty must go directly to duty station. The dilemma is that it is not a DOD policy / regulation. It is based on installation to installation policy / regulation issuance. I know the installation near me did have a policy that no working, utilities, & ACU/DCU/BDU's will not be worn in public except for two authorized stops. To pickup or drop off child at day care/school & emergency situations. But whom is going to police it up. Not like back in the day when MP's & SP's patrolled hot spots in towns.

Response by SP6 Greg Jetter made Sep 7 at 2019 2:26 PM

2019-09-07T14:26:33-04:00

No , as a soldier from 1972 to 1987 I went through the uniform debacle , wearing class A's and class B's were the norm , then some political correct moron decided that because soldiers were unpopular with the leftist that we could no longer wear them when transiting in public , we could not wear them at the air ports or bus stations any place off post , we were to hide the fact that we were in the military. As you can imagine this led to soldiers not acting like soldiers , so after a few years of this crap and with us still engaged in the cold war and preparing for further conflict , it was determined that if you want people to act like combat ready soldiers , then dress them as such , we started to get issuer new BDU's to replace our OD green fatigues , every one was in uniform from the pentagon down to the local National guard units. Guess what , it worked , our forces became better because of it , clerks , doc's , office workers , 11B's , red legs , aviators , all were on the same page now. All were reminded what they were there for ...

Now why would anyone in the service be ashamed to be seen wearing combat uniforms ? Yes the left /Democrats still hate us so what ? your either a soldier or not , if you don't want to dress like a soldier then get out , you don't belong with those that are.

Response by 1SG Billye Jackson made Sep 7 at 2019 2:41 PM

2019-09-07T14:41:54-04:00

If you are going Off Post in Uniform,you should be in Class A or B's or Civies. The only AR15 I received in my 23 Years of Active Duty, was for going off Post (right outside the Gate0 at Ft Bragg to pick up my Landry. MP'S were waiting for me when I Came Out.

Response by SSgt Michael Dale made Sep 8 at 2019 10:48 AM

2019-09-08T10:48:37-04:00

The use of camouflaged uniforms should be for field work only. If special units are granted the use of cammies or fatigues as a daily uniform while on base/post, they need to have a a set that can be ironed, boots should be polished and the service member should look sharp. Pride in self leads to pride in your unit and in your service. As for the majority of service members who work on base/post, Class A's should be worn and this should include most officers. I have no understanding why any service member, who is not in a line unit would even be issued camouflaged uniforms, but then again, I'm an old veteran.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2019 12:51 PM

2019-09-08T12:51:13-04:00

No one knows what every day may entail so wearing a service uniform isnt realistic. Marines maybe working a desk in the AM and painting the generals rocks in the afternoon. Also wearing those uniforms on the daily requires frequent upkeep. I'm already expected to work 10 hour days and now you want to cut into my off time to maintain a service uniform on the daily? This thinking is what drives people to leave the service. They are tired of stupid rules and stupid people and can go work for someone else who doesnt come up with stupid shit like this.

Response by LCpl Rich Vail made Sep 8 at 2019 7:41 PM

2019-09-08T19:41:12-04:00

Yes, your fatigues are not suitable for off base apparel. You should be able to get gas/petrol...but nothing else.

Response by LCpl Rich Vail made Sep 8 at 2019 7:49 PM

2019-09-08T19:49:22-04:00

Your bdu's are a working uniform. If you desire to go offbase and shop, then you need to be in civies or an appropriate leave or liberty uniform. That is what the USMC/Navy require. the only time you may exit for vehicle is to purchase/pump gasoline. Otherwise, you should be in a leave/liberty uniform. Dress professionally.

Response by SSG Lloyd Price made Sep 9 at 2019 1:42 AM

2019-09-09T01:42:16-04:00

Your duty uniform, or the uniform of the day, is a service members business attire and it should be suitable for wear. For the Army, we have an FM that clearly states how the uniform should be worn and when. Along with this, Commanders may make reasonable decisions regarding modifications to policy. You need concern yourself with knowing these things not putting forth your ideas regarding them. Just do your job and take pride in how well you do it.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Sep 9 at 2019 7:28 AM

2019-09-09T07:28:01-04:00

Ok a lot of pros and cons on the issue of wearing Camo or your Dress uniform off post. As stated in previous posts this debate is been around for years. If you are a service person who has the luxury of having a 9 to 5 desk job or indoors and not a typical mechanic, grunt etc, I say wear the dress uniform but for all the rest wear your camo with pride.

Response by LTC Erik Spike Thiesmeyer, Sr. made Sep 9 at 2019 12:42 PM

2019-09-09T12:42:44-04:00

In the early 80's when I was active duty, we could not wear BDUs or flight suits off post except to get gas on the way to/from the base. No grocery shopping, no mall visits, no lunches at Denny's, Bennigans, or Outback. It was a punishable offense under Article 15. You could, however, shop at the PX, commissary, food court, bowling ally or go to the various clubs on post. O Club, Rocker Club, NCO Club, and EM Club (Yes, we all a club on post were we could go have a beer and hang out.) Now days the ACU/BDU/OCD/Etc. duty uniforms are for "any occasion" at "any time". Football games, political rallies, county fairs, town halls, corn hole tournaments, parades, and official travel. What happened to wearing Class Bs in public? In my 30+ years the problem was with the Class B uniform itself, especially with the elimination of the Army Green uniform. The ASU "dress blue" class B uniform was a hot mess with 19 different contrasting and mismatched colors. We looked like circus clowns or worse. The public had no idea what branch of service we were in!! When we still had khaki uniforms, soldiers wore those in public. Everyone knew we were soldiers. It was comfortable, displayed our unit patch, crest, ribbons, badges and rank. As a young PVT I wanted to earn my first awards so I could wear them on my khakis - but wait- Khakis were DX'd! Forced to wear the green class Bs with nothing on them but a black name tag. Again, the public had no idea who were were. Just a guy with a green shirt and dark green slacks who can't remember his own name. Lame. But I digress. To answer SSGT Edholm's question, Yes I think the DOD should ban the duty uniform/camouflage from public wear off post except for gas stations/quicki-marts. Now that the pinks and greens are coming back, put the troops in class B's for most office jobs. Medical, dental, finance, HQs, etc. Put the food service folks back in kitchen attire, scrubs at the hospitals/clinics, and for pete's sake bring the back the one piece Nomex flight suit as worn by every branch of service except the Army (rant over.)

Response by PO2 Cynthia Barber made Sep 9 at 2019 5:19 PM

2019-09-09T17:19:46-04:00

Yes.

Response by SGT Donovan Leeds made Sep 10 at 2019 4:54 PM

2019-09-10T16:54:15-04:00

I can't count how many times my "office job" changed at a moment's notice to go PMCS a vehicle, pull cable through the ceiling or floor, or voluntold to go do some form of clean-up somewhere. Personally, I hated having to wear Class A/B uniform at work because 1) it was uncomfortable and 2) I was paranoid it would get dirty. My ex-FIL served 3 tours in Vietnam and retired after 30 years and he referred to the Army during my stint ('94-'05) as the Gucci Army: All Shine and No Substance.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2019 1:20 PM

2019-09-11T13:20:37-04:00

Sometimes I think the military doesn't get enough visibility with the general public anymore. People are scared of camouflage uniforms now. In a military town nobody cares, but there might be room for it at events or perhaps volunteering.

But the working uniform isn't meant to look good. It's meant to get a job done. Also, part of me thinks that it gives less visibility for a good reason...when young SM's decide to act the fool out on the town. Because the headline will say "SOLDIER/SAILOR/AIRMAN/MARINE/COASTIE DID XXX AND GOT ARRESTED."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2019 2:48 PM

2019-09-11T14:48:20-04:00

well the ACU's are soon to be outdated and BDU's if we are talking woodlands are outdated longtime ago... The new pattern is the OCP as far as travelling from home to base or even running a quick errand there should not be any real issue with this as long as they are clean, and meet regs. I would recommend changing into civilian clothing when possible , especially if traveling on airplanes or going to dining establishments that serve alcohol. As times have changed and it is expected our service members are professionals. There can be some exceptions to rules, such as members returning from deployments as they certainly earned the right to be met by family and friends upon arrival in uniform. And having Class "B" or even "A" in a combat zone is not very practical unless you happen to be part of a staff.

Response by SSG Ronald Rollins made Sep 11 at 2019 3:36 PM

2019-09-11T15:36:17-04:00

I don't see any problem with wearing the uniform to do what you need to do. It is a work uniform. I have seen places in my 23 years that was not right. One place you could not wear them off post. But you see senior NCOs and officers out in town all the time. As an NCO I tactfully reminded a few of the policy. I was told it was none of my business, stay in my lane, don't tell me sh*t, I out rank you so shut up. It seemed not to apply to them. so I did what I wanted. I actually taped one and played it back to him when he got on me out in the store. Did not go well. But kept me from legal action. To me it is a stupid policy and just something to get someone in trouble. And a policy that only applies to e6 and below. Senior NCOs and officers don't abide by the policies. Why should anyone else?

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Sep 11 at 2019 7:51 PM

2019-09-11T19:51:32-04:00

This question goes back decades, all the way to the late fifties. You either be on your way home if you lived off base or on your way to the base for your duty day. Assanine. You're a member of the military,you're on duty 24/7/365. You have to be in uniform when you report in for your duty day. You finish your duty day and go home (off base), all of asudden you hear over the radio or the TV theres been another 9/11 attack. Are you going to rush to the nearest phone booth to do a superman? Wrong! there are no more phone booths! You're already in your OCPs (it's the 21st century) and you can head back to base already to report for duty, not wasting time to change. Everyone now wears a cammo uniform. Desk jockeys, cooks and chaplins included. Those who aren't even related to a straight combat rating have to pitch in to get the combat troops gone. What, you tnink only combat related troops will have to fight a war? Wrong again! So hour cammouflage uniform will be dirty, wrinkly and not project the proper military image. You don't get time to spit shine your leather boots, press your cammies or even shower (some days) to impress the enemy/brass, when you're defending your country. You want to look all representable for the high school/ college reunion? go stay a civilian.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2019 9:38 AM

2019-09-12T09:38:35-04:00

We live in different times. Bases get attacked, we have active shooters, etc... we need to be combat ready to take action, not looking pretty at the office.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2019 10:36 AM

2019-09-12T10:36:44-04:00

No. That is inefficient. So are we going to allocate time and facilities for Soldiers to go change between duty and travel, lunch, dinner, pick up the kids? Etc. We are people with every day tasks. But, on any given day any soldier can be called to go get dirty. Vehicle maintenance, work details, etc. A soldier can go from being in the office performing administrative tasks to go assist loading ammo for tomorrow's firing range. This is not anything that affects security at this time, so let's focus on more important issues. Chief out.

Response by MSgt Edmund VanDamme made Sep 12 at 2019 11:08 AM

2019-09-12T11:08:38-04:00

Maintain a professional image and respect on the civilian community

Response by MSgt Allen Chandler made Sep 12 at 2019 1:44 PM

2019-09-12T13:44:31-04:00

I'm from the old world. Retired in 1983 but I remember then, and believe now, “look sharp be sharp” presented a good image. Your representative of your unit, your command, and your branch of service always. Some of the Class A and Class B uniforms were always a hassle, but there was always at least 1 uniform that was easy to wear and easy to take care of. That's the one that office people wore, and everybody wore when they went off base.

Response by SSG Bruce A Sherwood Sr made Sep 13 at 2019 10:34 AM

2019-09-13T10:34:27-04:00

Yes

Response by SSgt Ernest Hurst made Sep 13 at 2019 11:35 AM

2019-09-13T11:35:05-04:00

Way back when I was in USAF ('63 to '71 active and '75 to '81 reserve) we could wear fatigues off base traveling to & from work, but make no stops - store, bar, etc. Airmen or NCOs with "office jobs" class A or B & they could wear them off base. Since BDUs are 21st century equivalent of fatigues, should probably go by same rules.

Response by LTC Gene Moser made Sep 13 at 2019 9:11 PM

2019-09-13T21:11:48-04:00

My father was in the 82nd A/B when it was the 82nd Inf - he had his jump wings before the 82nd gained the tab. He flew helicopter ambulance H-13s in Korea. I think he had two pairs of fatigues. He always wore class Bs under his flight suit and either B or A on the platform for his last assignment. I've never seen the reason to be in garrison in a field uniform unless you were going to get dirty.

Response by MSG Eddie Robinson made Sep 14 at 2019 7:57 AM

2019-09-14T07:57:55-04:00

Might be a good idea.

Response by SPC Andrew Murray made Sep 14 at 2019 4:51 PM

2019-09-14T16:51:56-04:00

I've never understood wanting to up the suck level for no other reason than to up the suck level. No civilian is offended by you wearing acus in public.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2019 12:53 PM

2019-09-16T12:53:56-04:00

No! It's a way to promote and recruit the military/ branch of service that said person is wearing. Yes, there is always someone who does the wrong thing in uniform which is why such rules come along. I do not think it wise to be at a bar/ club or other extracurricular activity just to get attention/ etc.

Response by SFC Mamerto Perez made Oct 6 at 2019 7:03 AM

2019-10-06T07:03:10-04:00

YES

Response by Sgt Jeff Sanborn made Oct 7 at 2019 11:54 PM

2019-10-07T23:54:30-04:00

Response by SSG George Duncan made Oct 12 at 2019 8:44 PM

2019-10-12T20:44:41-04:00

quit bit------ were the uniform that you need on today then get on with your day make the world a better place because you were here

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Oct 14 at 2019 7:41 AM

2019-10-14T07:41:28-04:00

When I was in, they were called fatigues and were all green. Wearing fatigues off post was unauthorized unless, 1) you were on a detail. Or, 2) You had off post housing. Even then, you were restricted to going to work, then straight home, no stops in between. I still can't get used to BDU's and flight coveralls out and about in public, but I haven't gotten a call from DoD asking my opinion either.

Response by SrA James Cannon made Oct 17 at 2019 2:30 PM

2019-10-17T14:30:36-04:00

Absolutely not. I always see this question coming from Marines who wish to enforce their rules on everyone else. Each branch has it's own ideas and policies on this. Let each branch continue to do what works for them and their culture. In other words, "Stay in your lane, bro."

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Nov 7 at 2019 9:47 AM

2019-11-07T09:47:32-05:00

I think the answer should be no you should not Be allowed to wear camouflage utilities off the base. Here in the 21st century too many people have the same utilities and can blend in and cause chaos if they wanted to but who will be the blame when a local authorities come around in a rest everyone. All the genuwyne military soldiers and Marines will be the 1st to be held as suspects, while the Antifa prick wearing the same BDU that planted the bomb at that Walmart, will get away. Besides we Marines stand out regardless of what we wear.

Response by SSG Lynn Skocdopole made Nov 15 at 2019 4:15 PM

2019-11-15T16:15:50-05:00

due to all the inbred muslim zealots running loose on American soil that dictates a 24/7 readiness status. why do I want to look like am going to a party instead of ready to respond immediately?! The "field" is everywhere a servicemember sleeps! (09/11/01 saw the end to everyday dancing through life folks! Get with the plan or die without one!

Response by SSG Lynn Skocdopole made Nov 17 at 2019 10:21 AM

2019-11-17T10:21:17-05:00

why would I wear my uniform to a bar?!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2019 12:16 PM

2019-11-17T12:16:40-05:00

Response by LCpl Michael Cain made Dec 7 at 2019 12:47 AM

2019-12-07T00:47:07-05:00

This is why my fellow Marines are screened so thoroughly before being allowed into other departments ... " to professional ", " to disciplined ", and " to scary" for the lesser branches.

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made Dec 27 at 2019 10:25 PM

2019-12-27T22:25:10-05:00

No. Can't someone drive home from duty and not have to change first? What if I need to get groceries on the way? Seems a bit too nit-picky, frankly.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2019 3:26 PM

2019-12-28T15:26:36-05:00

How about this, I was at an off base function reacently and the guest speaker was a AFNG Colonel (Unit CO) wearing a flight suite.

Back in the day, fatigues (as they were called then) were only allowed off base commuting to and from home, non stop, if you lived off base. As far as work, only if you were in a "physical" MOS, not allowed in any type of administration positions.

Response by LTC Lee Bouchard made Dec 28 at 2019 7:15 PM

2019-12-28T19:15:29-05:00

To and from work as the duty uniform of the day. Yes.
Civilians wear it all the time and every day. Noted exceptions they cannot wear any items of military patches, insignia's, milt. pins etc.

Name tags only by Fed. Law on milt. uniforms

Response by SFC Scott Higgins made Dec 29 at 2019 8:16 AM

2019-12-29T08:16:14-05:00

When I was in, it was a command directive that you weren't supposed to wear your uniform off base unless:
A) You were going from your residence to your unit.
B) You were going from your unit to your residence.
C) You were stopping to get gas on your way enroute to the base or to your residence.
D) You were attending an official function (i.e. Dining Out, Parade) off base. or
E) You were traveling. (Which used to be only in Class A Uniform.

That being said, special circumstances could arise where an individual has no choice. i.e. emergency leave from a combat zone - very unlikely that Class A or B or even civilian attire would be available.
It is true that you can almost always tell a military individual from their civilian counterparts. The haircut, the posture, stickers on the cars, out of state plates etc. But the thing in question here is professionalism. How does an individual in uniform carry themselves. Does it reflect credit upon the service, or does the individual portray the military in a bad light. If you are wearing the uniform, you should wear it with pride to honor those who served before you.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2019 8:48 AM

2019-12-29T08:48:21-05:00

This discussion has been going on for a long time, especially in the medical setting. It is axiomatic that civilian patients, i.e, dependents and non-military staff patients feel uncomfortable being treated by clinicians in battle uniforms. This is also true, though to a lesser extent, for active-duty and retired military patients outside of a deployment arena. Despite "White Coat Syndrome," it has been my experience that most patients want and expect their doctors and other medical staff to be attired "medically" - in white coats over a non-combat uniform, or in scrubs. Again, in my experience, battle uniforms, no matter how pressed or neat - even when worn under white coats - cause unnecessary anxiety by creating the impression that everyone, including our doctors, is at war. As to non-medical personnel wearing battle uniforms off-post/base, I don't believe it's a problem as long as they look neat and professional; in fact, I believe it can set a good example and reflect well on our military which, thankfully, enjoys a high degree of respect, admiration, and thanks these days. Such was not alway the case.

Response by PO3 Russell Hohl made Dec 29 at 2019 2:14 PM

2019-12-29T14:14:31-05:00

I believe the KEY PHRASE in the original question is wearing the camouflage uniform "OFF OF MILITARY INSTALLATIONS". If the person is OFF the base, then they should NOT wear the camouflage (or working uniform) however, if the person is ON the base, their uniform should be appropriate for the work they will be doing.

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Dec 29 at 2019 5:58 PM

2019-12-29T17:58:58-05:00

You know as I re read this question and I want to gain go over some of the answers various people gave. I find it interesting how technology is I'll pacing a lot of our reasons to wear camouflage utilities off base. Now days if you have a honey do list all you do is get on your computer order everything from Amazon and it will be shipped to your spouse in a few hours. Walmart has that shopping feature now they would do your grocery shopping for you and some walmarts have a delivery service that would deliver it to your house or your wife can drive to the Walmart sit in the lanes marked for grocery pick up and they will put it in your car for you. You can even order a pizza online and a drone would drop it off. If it's a Marine Corps base that drone is flying to I don't think you will get your pizza, Call some jar head will shoot it down ,they will take your pizza and eat it. " joking " . But seriously technology is far outpacing any excuse we can come up with to wear camouflage utilities off base. We had this problem in manufacturing. No one was allowed to use cell phones or any type of electronic device while on the manufacturing plant floor. At all the contractors we're coming in with 2 way radios walking up-and-down the aisles not paying attention or obeying the rule. Then technology came along 2 way radios had cell phone features. They finally amended that rule if you going to use your cell phone stop step off to the side somewhere where is safe and use your phone but do not continue to walk through the plant floor while on the cell phone.

Response by LTC Gene Moser made Dec 29 at 2019 10:34 PM

2019-12-29T22:34:21-05:00

I'm retired army. My father was career and most of the time an army pilot. I think he owned two sets of fatigues. As a rule he wore class Bs, often under his flight suit. It always bothered me to sit in an office without a chance to get to the arms room and ammunition while wearing fatigues or BDUs - shows my age.

Response by SFC Bill Snyder made Dec 30 at 2019 6:24 AM

2019-12-30T06:24:19-05:00

One word: . YES.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2019 8:29 AM

2019-12-30T08:29:27-05:00

I know it’s regulation to wear them in the field and our working uniforms on base, but honestly why do we need to have a working uniform? It’s a waste of taxpayer money for enlisted service members and more money spent for officers. Our nation is trillions of dollars in debt, why can’t we simplify shit? I’m not saying get rid of our traditional dress uniforms, but we aren’t meant to sit behind a desk and do monotonous work either. We should be ready to go into a battlefield situation at a moments notice. I know that the chances of a base coming under attack (especially in the US) is slim, but we should be keeping up our readiness regardless.

Response by CPT Eric Matheu made Dec 30 at 2019 11:56 AM

2019-12-30T11:56:40-05:00

During my time in (80's), the only time we could be seen out in flight suit or BDU was if you had to stop for gas on the way in or out of post. Now it seems you see soldiers around only in cammo (to include airports while traveling)

Response by PO1 David Shepardson made Dec 30 at 2019 5:42 PM

2019-12-30T17:42:10-05:00

Yes

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2019 9:31 PM

2019-12-30T21:31:57-05:00

Response by SPC Michael Picard made Dec 31 at 2019 11:39 AM

2019-12-31T11:39:43-05:00

From '71 to '73 I was married and living off base. I was a 91D Surgical Specialist. I wore my hospital Whites to from work.And only that.I could stop at the PX on my way home, but not the local A&P. Any duty other than Hospital Duty it was Class A or B. Any other duty except Field Duty required Class A or B from the Post Commander on down to the Mail Clerk. When traveling it was Class A or B. However we were encouraged to wear civvies due to the back lash against the war in Vietnam. I think it looks more professional. When I see camouflage in an airport or local store, I think where is your pride in your appearance. No matter how sharply ironed they are, they do not have the same professional look as Class A or B. But I am an old man who is old school.

Response by SPC Russ Bolton made Dec 31 at 2019 12:59 PM

2019-12-31T12:59:30-05:00

In todays society. The less identifiable the better. People today are fearful of terrorist activity. So yes there are many different versions of the military uniform for different jobs. The uniform for being in the civilian population should always be civilian clothes unless goin to and from work and if the mission requires the use of the types of neutral appearance for any situation in life. Be blessed.

Response by MSgt Robert Flowers made Jan 1 at 2020 9:54 AM

2020-01-01T09:54:19-05:00

Yes

Response by PO2 Louis Fattrusso made Jan 1 at 2020 4:58 PM

2020-01-01T16:58:24-05:00

No. I enjoy seeing our military in any uniform. If it’s the uniform of the day, nothing wrong with it.

Response by SSG Raymond Buscarino made Jan 1 at 2020 6:55 PM

2020-01-01T18:55:25-05:00

They should not be off post in BDU uniforms.Back inthe days we were not allowed off post in BUDS

Response by SGT Robert Eddy made Jan 1 at 2020 10:05 PM

2020-01-01T22:05:19-05:00

"Back in the day", we weren't permitted to wear fatigue or work uniforms off post; only dress greens, khaki, or civilian clothes.
As to whether field uniforms should be permitted off post, I have no opinion.

Response by SSgt Ray Bebee made Jan 2 at 2020 10:40 AM

2020-01-02T10:40:39-05:00

There are too many soldier wannabes wearing camouflage just to falsely gain the respect of others. If the real deals could only wear class A or B except while participating in duties requiring camouflage, you'd see less and less of the wannabe imitators.

Response by MAJ David Parr made Jan 2 at 2020 12:08 PM

2020-01-02T12:08:13-05:00

I remember years ago when 'BDU's' weren't allowed off base. I said, what, are they ashamed of the military?! Flight crews also were not allowed to wear flight suits off base. I firmly believe that multicam uniforms should allowed for every day wear. Class 'A' uniforms are for formal occasions, and for those command staff who need to present a more professional appearance, especially when dealing with civilian executives, etc. Just my opinion.

Response by CDR Mike Haberthur made Jan 2 at 2020 12:40 PM

2020-01-02T12:40:16-05:00

Yes.

Response by MSG Steve Fultz made Jan 2 at 2020 3:15 PM

2020-01-02T15:15:27-05:00

That was the SOP back in my day, It better be official if your off post.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Jan 2 at 2020 4:24 PM

2020-01-02T16:24:56-05:00

NO in route to and from post only gas stop quick store stop that is all. Every one unless special circumstances should wear the work uniform decided by the local Commander. It is not practical for Soldiers to have to change uniforms before going home or after arriving on Duty.

Response by CSM David Porterfield made Jan 2 at 2020 7:12 PM

2020-01-02T19:12:09-05:00

Yes. "Camo" should only be worn off post to and from work. If you work in an office environment you should wear A or B uniforms. Mechanics wear overalls and hospital staff whites or scrubs. Combat arms would mostly wear "camo or utilities" during training in a outside, field or range training. Why even have dress uniforms if no one ever wears them hell why even give awards if you never get to wear them. The other thing that bugs me is seeing new Soldiers leaving training to go to their next duty assignment wearing their OCP when they should be wearing a dress uniform or civvies. I travel a lot for work and see Soldiers travelling to military schools or temporary duty wearing ACU/OCP looking like bags of crap. Two weeks ago I saw a 1LT in Baltimore wearing a well worn out OCP that was EXTREMELY wrinkled with his unit patch almost sideways. It doesn't make us look good. If your going to or coming from a war zone I get it but not for regular travel, im retired five years now but still call people out for looking like sh!t. We need to have more pride in ourselves and our branches than that. I think at least the Army has become very lazy about uniform wear and has lost some pride.

Response by SFC Benjamin Linduff made Jan 3 at 2020 3:42 PM

2020-01-03T15:42:16-05:00

Yes they should, When a soldier is off Post, they should be in class A's or B's. Their camo work uniform only to and from work, stop to get gas, or to say pick up a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk or such on their way home.

Response by MSgt John Scrutchens made Jan 3 at 2020 7:42 PM

2020-01-03T19:42:06-05:00

Alert status – non-alert status; look, the military has lost its perspective police call, gig-lines, and proper uniform wear all are attention to detail training. When a detail was off, it was noticed a package in the wrong place, a wire sticking out of the ground the next morning after an evening police call. An airmen’s gig line is off and the hair cut is not regulation. The person doesn’t fit. You get the message! If not, BOOM!

Response by MSgt John Scrutchens made Jan 3 at 2020 7:42 PM

2020-01-03T19:42:18-05:00

Response by Col P Mc made Jan 3 at 2020 9:37 PM

2020-01-03T21:37:35-05:00

Keep the camouflage in the field or for the jobs that require manual labor in garrison. “Office work” should be done in office attire.

Response by SGT Scott Carter made Jan 4 at 2020 1:48 AM

2020-01-04T01:48:47-05:00

Preface this by saying I served in the BDU/black/jungle boot era of the late 80's. It's funny, as an infantry soldier we had "field" BDUs and "garrison" BDUs same went for boots. If you were in garrison and your boots weren't HIGHLY shined and your unis weren't starched to the hilt you were likely to get an ass chewing. Now, for field duty, those standards were relaxed. Add to that we were allowed to go to town dressed in BDUs only if we lived off post and then, other than maybe stopping for gas or a quick trip in a convenience store, we were expected to change when we got home if we were going to be out. That applied to PTs as well.

Response by Sgt Vermland Robinette made Jan 4 at 2020 8:28 AM

2020-01-04T08:28:57-05:00

I agree, as there are to many non-military personnel wearing these type clothes who are not even in the military.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Jan 4 at 2020 8:58 PM

2020-01-04T20:58:46-05:00

I don't think that anything other Class-As should be worn off base unless you're on a duty where you were sent out that way.

Response by SGT William Benson made Jan 4 at 2020 11:32 PM

2020-01-04T23:32:37-05:00

When I was in, the USMC forbade wearing the Utility uniform off base except for travel to and from off-base quarters. It relented to allow stopping en route for quick errands, like picking up children from daycare, stopping at the dry cleaners, getting gas for the car at the Quik Mart. You could NOT wear it for prolonged errands, like grocery shopping, and certainly not for off-base social engagements.
I would like to see the Services get back to wearing our service uniforms when not performing utility work. (Caveat that with an admonishment to the senior NCOs that they should expect their lads and lasses to be squared away, but not perfect all of the time. Back in the day, covers used to be worn at a rakish tilt - whatever happened to that?)
Get the Ranks used to wearing the Service uniforms, and I think we would see an increase in pride and espirit d'corps...
Especially now that the Army has a Service Uniform that actually looks sharp...

Response by LTC Charles Lauderdale made Jan 5 at 2020 2:17 AM

2020-01-05T02:17:23-05:00

May not be directly responding to the question, but sure some of you old guys out there remember the days when one was in fatigues the only place you could stop when off post was a gas station or hospital. In the early seventies was stationed on a post with a post commander and post SGM who not only looked too old for their roles, but enjoyed surprising folks as to their true identities. The story was they went off post one afternoon well before the retreat horn had blown and stopped at a bar with two vehicles sitting outside with blue officer stickers on the bumpers. Sure enough when they got inside they found two LT's sitting at the bar with beers in front of them. The general asked the LT closest to him how was the beer. The LT answered it was fine. The general then asked; "Kind of expensive, huh?" The LT said; "No, it's only eighty cents." The general then responded; "No, that beer is one hundred dollars and eighty cents in that you are in an improper uniform in an off post drinking establishment before retreat!" Soldier/Cop/Grunt, Retired

Response by MSgt George Fillgrove made Jan 5 at 2020 7:18 AM

2020-01-05T07:18:35-05:00

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2020 9:35 AM

2020-01-05T09:35:55-05:00

It should only be allowed off installation at certain times, and certain places. You shouldn't be doing your grocery shopping at Walmart at 9 at night in your camo unis.... Just my opinion.

Response by SrA Brett Stratton made Jan 5 at 2020 3:24 PM

2020-01-05T15:24:14-05:00

I used to do warehouse work and was around a lot of machines. Wearing dress blues would have been seriously impractical for the job. I don't think there needs to be "special circumstances" but I do agree there's a time and place for it. Since we're talking in the compound, If you came straight from work to go to the commissary or something, that's not a big deal. Maybe you need to pick up something before you head home off base or whatever. But otherwise, dress blues are a uniform of honor. We shouldn't be forced to wear THOSE unless they were special circumstances. I've always felt some of our events and parades, for example, could do with less BDUs and more dress blues.

Response by MAJ Richard Cheek made Jan 5 at 2020 4:59 PM

2020-01-05T16:59:31-05:00

With the new threats from Iran I think it should not be done. OPSEC

Response by LCpl Michael Cappello made Jan 5 at 2020 11:45 PM

2020-01-05T23:45:48-05:00

So. We should have to transport multiple sets of clothing to go to and from base if we are brown-baggers ? What do you consider a "special circumstance" ? While I was in, the majority of MOS's that wore "dress" uniforms ( alphas, charlies, modified blues) were office pogues. I would call being "in the rear with the gear" a "SPECIAL" circumstance. Then again, I am just an "old school" knuckle dragger who got out before there was a "Don't ask, Don't tell" protocol. We also were "highly" discouraged from wearing our cammi's (BDU's for the other branches) out in town for anything other than necessary functions. Such as getting gas on the way home or such like. We were encouraged to wear civvies or whatever was the appropriate dress uniform at that time. You know, HOTSOP. Also, there is NEVER a time that FULL DRESS BLUES is not appropriate in town. Just saying. PS Highly surprised a fellow Devil Dog would ask such a question. No disrespect but, I have come to expect such questions from other branches. And YES, the Marine Corps is part of the Dept. of the Navy. The MEN'S department. LOL

Response by SSG Jeffery Payne made Jan 6 at 2020 1:09 AM

2020-01-06T01:09:54-05:00

In my day you had the mind set that you preparing and training to go to war. That means even if work in a office you train and prepare. If the desk jockeys went to war would they wear a dress uniform. I think not. Also you could not go off post in your fatigues. If you lived off post you drive to you post and you don't get out of your car to do anything. You are a soldier first and you do what the miltary tells you to do. If you don't like the rules...get out

Response by CPO John Bjorge made Jan 6 at 2020 10:43 AM

2020-01-06T10:43:06-05:00

I can only address this subject from the point of view of the Navy. That being said I feel this issue should be looked at with the attitude of "PRESENT PRIDE". No mater what you wear or do in the public they see only the bad. If you are in the uniform of the day and only on your way to and from work they look at you as just another military person. If you look military it does not matter what you are wearing. Your Presentation is what counts. If you act like a jerk then people will just think "You are a Military Jerk".
Always keep in mind that the person you just ticked off with you Driving, Appearance or even your selfishness about what you deserve may very well be Retired Military and they might even know someone in your command. Should you show up in BDU's that look like they came from DRMO then you are representing your unit and your branch of the military.
In this day in age and with all that is going on in the world can anyone say they should be able to go out in town in their Working uniform. Might as will as paint a target on your back.

Response by Timothy Bair made Jan 7 at 2020 10:04 AM

2020-01-07T10:04:21-05:00

Off base doesn't mean off duty...the longstanding rule applies unless you are under orders to conceal your identity among civilian population to identify or infiltrate enemy ()...uniform applies :)

Response by PO1 David Olsen made Jan 8 at 2020 8:57 AM

2020-01-08T08:57:45-05:00

Most definitely as it was when I served.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2020 9:08 AM

2020-01-08T09:08:16-05:00

What you described use to be the norm up to the 90's and then some person or person's decide to change it, Why. I do not know. It does show more class for our troops wearing dress wear in public.

Response by LCDR Marv Collins made Jan 8 at 2020 9:41 AM

2020-01-08T09:41:42-05:00

yes

Response by LCDR Marv Collins made Jan 8 at 2020 9:42 AM

2020-01-08T09:42:01-05:00

Absolutely

Response by LTJG Sandra Smith made Jan 8 at 2020 3:35 PM

2020-01-08T15:35:20-05:00

I may be even more odd out here, but as a nurse corps officer, living off base, I did wear my "work" uniform to and from the base, but at no other time or place, generally not even on base other than the hospital. I think that could apply for all "work" unis.

Response by TSgt James Potter made Jan 11 at 2020 10:51 AM

2020-01-11T10:51:18-05:00

I never really liked seeing camo off base, just my opinion. I never liked seeing the office types wearing camo either (finance, medical, etc.). I always thought they should be in some type of dress uniform. My Dad worked as a civilian for the 101st back in the early 50s. He had to wear a dress shirt and tie at work, he was a clerk.

Response by SrA Salvador Ruiz made Jan 11 at 2020 12:55 PM

2020-01-11T12:55:13-05:00

There are hundreds of camouflaged clothing wearers off base who are just civilians. Why single out the military? Should they wear class A uniforms? I think not!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jan 11 at 2020 3:44 PM

2020-01-11T15:44:26-05:00

Sometimes rules are promulgated due to convenience for good efficiency and morale. A good example is allowing government employees to use government phones for personal calls. It would be inefficient to make the employees to go to a civilian site to use phones. I personally don't mind service members wearing uniforms off post. It shows the civilians we exist and they are amongst patriots. That is life for some of us is more than the performance of the stock market or mortgages.

Response by LTC J Reg made Jan 16 at 2020 7:43 AM

2020-01-16T07:43:09-05:00

Yes they should save the field gear for the field. Fat drum they wear those field uniforms everywhere when not on duty

Response by GySgt Robert Otto made Jan 21 at 2020 4:51 PM

2020-01-21T16:51:39-05:00

Not trying to change anyone

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Jan 26 at 2020 8:36 AM

2020-01-26T08:36:50-05:00

No.

Response by PFC Kenneth Anderson made Feb 9 at 2020 5:34 PM

2020-02-09T17:34:44-05:00

When I was In the Army In The 70's, Fatigues were not to be worn off post unless on details! To many non Military people are running around trying to look Military but In the end of the Day, Their like Trump!

Response by SPC George Migliore made Feb 16 at 2020 9:37 PM

2020-02-16T21:37:52-05:00

I agree with this statement . I come from old school . I also believe that women should be separated from men in the service and kit the gays out. Make America Great again!!!!

Response by SPC George Migliore made Feb 16 at 2020 9:38 PM

2020-02-16T21:38:47-05:00

Kick the gays out !

Response by SPC George Migliore made Feb 16 at 2020 9:40 PM

2020-02-16T21:40:58-05:00

Sp/4 Migliore Cold War veteran. Make America Great Again!

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Feb 19 at 2020 11:34 AM

2020-02-19T11:34:52-05:00

SPC Hurst, that use to be what all services did back in the latter half of the 20th century. Personnel who worked in office/admin jobs, medical, DFACs and such, wore Class As/pretty uniforms. Those of us who really did work repairing and field duty, had to wear fatigues/camouflage uniforms. Wear of these uniforms (field duty) were only woren off base to and from your off base home. Emergency/special needs stops were allowed. The Pentagon brass finally came up with the idea of "why not have every member of the military wear their fatigues/camouflage uniforms everyday of the week, no matter what their AFSC, MOS or rating was"! This idea was well recevied by those office jockeys so they could be in the same uniform. It also saved millions of dollars for the military, in that the amount of Class A uniforms, could be lowered. It also led to office jockeys could now look like they really worked. This was discussed before.

Response by CW4 Jeffrey Sumners made Mar 6 at 2020 9:21 PM

2020-03-06T21:21:30-05:00

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2020 2:53 PM

2020-03-12T14:53:24-04:00

Since 9-11 (and actually during ODS/S), admin types have been told to wear utilities to "support the combat warrior". Aviators wear flightsuits (at least in the USAF) and everyone else ABUs/OCPs. Problem I have there is that aviators are issued Nomex flightsuits...and they aren't cheap. If they are in an office and catch the flughtsuit on a sharp edge of a chair or desk, then the squadron replaces them. If Joe Bagodonuts tears the pants on his OCP, he's out the $50+ to replace. In this same light...many aviators don't even own a full set of utilities (ABUs/OCPs)...because they'd have to buy them. All that said...unless you are "ass in the cockpit"... aviators should wear the approved utility for all ground personnel. And DO NOT even get me started on remote (drone) pilots and support operators wearing Nomex!

Response by Sgt Anthony Leverington made Mar 22 at 2020 12:46 PM

2020-03-22T12:46:35-04:00

I was in back in the mid 80's and was stationed on a MAC base. Everyone who worked indoors, wore dress uniforms. Everyone else (mechanics and such) work fatigues/BDU's as our daily uniforms. The one exception to that was TDY. If we were deployed somewhere, nobody wore dress uniforms regardless of their job. The only times we left the base in uniform, were if we went off base for a lunch break but, even that was rare because our mess hall had great food or we could go to the on base bowling alley for an absolutely delicious burger. In my case, the hanger I worked in was so far away from either of the 2 gates, it just wasn't worth the risk of being late getting back to bother trying to go off base. Anytime we were off duty, we were required to be in civilian clothes.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2020 7:56 PM

2020-03-23T19:56:35-04:00

Why?

Response by SSgt Paul Millard made Mar 24 at 2020 4:58 PM

2020-03-24T16:58:15-04:00

This was the rule for Air Force during my time pre 1995. Good rule since it can make civilian uncomfortable. Too much like countries with heavy military presence on the streets.

Response by MSgt Currie C. made Apr 20 at 2020 1:44 AM

2020-04-20T01:44:56-04:00

Yes, ban them. In my time, the Vietnam War was going on, wearing "utility's" while off base would get you the attention of the Sergeant Major.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2020 3:21 PM

2020-04-20T15:21:50-04:00

If the camo uniform is the uniform of the day for those troops on that post what does it matter.

Response by MSgt Steve Sweeney made Apr 20 at 2020 3:45 PM

2020-04-20T15:45:00-04:00

Yep.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2020 10:41 PM

2020-04-20T22:41:07-04:00

Recruiters showing up to applicants houses wear what exactly?

Response by 1SG Billye Jackson made Apr 21 at 2020 8:10 AM

2020-04-21T08:10:17-04:00

On my first Assignment to Germany in 1966, (Badhersfield 3rd Sq. 14th ACR). The Only way to get off Post was ether Class A or Coat and Tie.

Response by Cpl Phillip Brame made Apr 21 at 2020 10:15 AM

2020-04-21T10:15:08-04:00

I always thought there was a rule for wear of the dungaree and it was never meant to be worn in the local community. During my time it was a work uniform, to go on liberty there was liberty uniform civies they were called. Stop it with the coddling of the young soldiers of today there has to be some amount of military bearing adhered to.

Response by SMSgt Ed W. made Apr 21 at 2020 1:29 PM

2020-04-21T13:29:47-04:00

When I was the NCOIC of a COMM section in the 70's I was called to attend a meeting off base. Time was of the essence and I chose to go in the fatigue uniform of the day. BIG MISTAKE, I did not realize that the meeting would include the CMSAF. I was quietly pulled aside and reminded that we were not to wear fatigues off base and that as a Senior NCO I was expected to set a proper example for younger airmen and comply with the regulations concerning the wearing of the uniform. I don't know when the regulation changed to permit BDU's off base, but I don't think it is necessary unless one is performing duties that require it. Class A or B uniforms look more professional and reflect a higher degree of pride. My 2 cents worth

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Apr 21 at 2020 11:21 PM

2020-04-21T23:21:15-04:00

Boy it’s been a long time, but married guys living off base had to wear the uniform of the day, and change into their fatigues. You could not go in or out in fatigues.

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Apr 24 at 2020 8:08 AM

2020-04-24T08:08:35-04:00

Casual observations from an old vet. I've never gotten used to seeing current service members out and about in BDU's or USAF flight coveralls. Showing my age, but back when I was in, wearing fatigues off-post was unauthorized. If you went downtown, it was class A's, B's, or civvies. The only exceptions were, 1) Assigned to a work detail. And, 2) Off-post housing. If you had it, you went straight to work, and straight home afterwards. No stops for a loaf of bread or, God forbid, a quick one at the neighborhood bar. If you were caught, there would be consequences.

Response by Maj Robert Larkowski made Apr 26 at 2020 1:41 PM

2020-04-26T13:41:51-04:00

Kind of sounds like the old days when only "desk people" would wear their AF blues and everybody else wore BDU's.
Regardless of what some think we are at war, maybe not one declared and we should be read to go in a hurry when n not perform extra off base trips in your BDUs, BDUs should be worn at most all times.

Response by LCDR Mike Morrissey made Apr 26 at 2020 6:52 PM

2020-04-26T18:52:42-04:00

Somehow all (or some of) the services running around in camouflage confuses who is what. I’d much rather wear my “real” Navy uniforms in public than cammies. That said, why do all the services have to have unique cammies? I remember that Desert Storm had Navy deploying in Forest Greens in Saudi and getting fresh Chocolate Chips and boots in time for return to US parades.

Response by Sgt Earl Poindexter made Apr 27 at 2020 2:53 PM

2020-04-27T14:53:45-04:00

I was trained utilities were to be worn off base, only while on duty, and performing an authorized mission. There was also a caveat allowing personnel living off base to travel to their residence in them as well. I see other branches traveling in camo and walking the street in them in just doesn't look squared away.

Response by Capt Jose R made May 3 at 2020 6:18 PM

2020-05-03T18:18:01-04:00

They tried that when I was Active Duty, but there was a lot of backlash against it.

I was USAF, and they made us where dress uniforms every day except for Friday. Fortunately, I was in career field where I could legitimately claim that I needed to go out to the field. Even I didn't , found an excuse every day to make a site visit to one of my job sites at the base. I ended up wearing BDU's almost every day for 3 years :)

Response by SP6 David Carmon made May 8 at 2020 5:00 PM

2020-05-08T17:00:42-04:00

Our military members look much better in the Class A uniform.

Response by SSG Lisa Wright made May 14 at 2020 12:15 AM

2020-05-14T00:15:49-04:00

No, that makes absolutely no sense. There is nothing wrong with wearing our ACUs anywhere; we should not have to change into the stuffy dress uniform and be uncomfortable while we work. The dress uniform should not be used for casual daily work wear. It should be reserved for special ceremonies and events. Even the class B version is much too dressed up for mere office wear.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2020 2:47 PM

2020-05-21T14:47:56-04:00

In my opinion, I dont see a need to make anyone wear anything that needs to be dry cleaned unless theres a good reason for it. The combat uniform is more comfortable and is easier to maintain. Forcing people to wear uncomfortable uniforms just because you want your commanding officer to consider you for promotion just shows that you lack the leadership ability to establish effective command and control. The combat uniform looks good when worn correctly, it looks good when the personnel wearing it is disciplined and takes pride in the uniform. The only downside is your feet smell more when you take boots off.

As for wearing the uniform outside of the base or installation; if a soldier has to stop by the store or run a quick errand after work, it's not going to hurt anyone. If I catch someone put the uniform on just so they might get free waffle house though, that kind of reason is not okay. I have seen many service members wear their uniforms outside of work for many reasons, many of them have a good explanation, and as long as they are conducting themselves the way they should when they are seen in the uniform it doesn't bother me.

Response by CW3 Art Farash made May 23 at 2020 12:24 AM

2020-05-23T00:24:34-04:00

I am an RA CW3 Retired ad every year it piises me of to see all the National GUardians and Reservists come to veterans day events at schhols etc wearing BDUs. Last Vets Day the lady of honor was an Air Force officer who just returned from "combat deployment" of 6 months in Dubai i an admin job - your guessed it - wearing BDUs! Alsosome other no longer active reservists and ROTC types.The only one wearing ASUs were nyself and an RA NCO.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2020 3:12 PM

2020-05-23T15:12:00-04:00

Everything should have a good reason. What is the reason for your proposal?

Response by SFC Joh Williams made May 24 at 2020 1:01 PM

2020-05-24T13:01:59-04:00

This discussion has been going on since the beginning of time. If you are wearing the uniform correctly, there should be no issues. I would avoid bars in any uniform.

Response by GySgt Gary Cordeiro made May 25 at 2020 2:20 AM

2020-05-25T02:20:10-04:00

Definitely

Response by Sgt Bob Buster Adcock made Jun 2 at 2020 3:33 PM

2020-06-02T15:33:11-04:00

When I was in the Corps utilities could be worn to and from work, but no stops were allowed.

Response by Sgt David Hutchinson made Jun 5 at 2020 3:49 PM

2020-06-05T15:49:12-04:00

Wearing your cammis out in town isn’t an option for Marines so it was never been something I worried about. I always thought it was funny when I would go to the store shopping and see some guy from the Air Force or Army in their camouflage utilities, like seriously do you know what it means to blend in.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2020 9:01 AM

2020-06-13T09:01:00-04:00

I was thinking about something that other commenters have made on this post. Some have suggested that our “work uniform” should be a Class A or B unless actually working in a motor pool or some other environment where getting dirty is the norm. Others have said that back in their day, the wear of a utility uniform off the installation was strictly forbidden—to the point of warranting UCMJ action. They further stated that back in their day, a utility uniform wasn’t worn except in the motor pool or a field environment. I have often thought that perhaps we should return to a standard where we are mostly dressed in Class A or B. After all, our military leaders at the Pentagon are not in utility uniforms. Our civilian leaders in DC are always dressed “to the nines.” I’ve thought how everyone “back in the day” used to dress up for everything unless they were doing some kind of industrial or agricultural work. I mean, I’ve seen pictures of men and women attending ball games. The men were in suits and ties and the women were in dresses and nylons. If people can dress up to go to a stupid baseball game, why can’t our military men and women dress up to go to work? I’m a baseball fan, by the way. But then another commenter wisely pointed something out. Times have changed. People rarely dress up these days. I thought about that. He’s right. Outside of DC, and perhaps Wall Street, there isn’t a lot of dressing to “the nines.” I look around at the civilians who work on the installation. The men who work in office settings are usually in some type of khaki pants and a polo shirt or a button down dress shirt with no tie. They’re not even wearing a sport coat. The women are usually in some type of slacks or skirts and blouses. They might even be wearing some type of sandals or “dressy” flip flops. They’re wearing what we might call “business casual.” In non office environments, they’re even more casual. The civilians might be wearing jeans and sweatshirts or t-shirts. They might be in what we would call “roughs.” Off the installation, their counterparts are in similar attire. Dressing up in full on suits is a rarity, even in professions such as banking and law offices. Maybe we should be allowed to wear utility uniforms because that IS our working uniform. I might go from sitting at my desk writing an evaluation to helping someone set up a satellite dish and then into a meeting—all in the course of one day. I don’t have the time to be constantly changing uniforms during the day and my OCP is a very practical uniform for doing that. What’s more, at lunch, I want to maximize my time for eating. I might want to meet my wife off the installation, or go have lunch with a coworker at someplace other than what’s offered on the installation. Sometimes I get back from lunch and have to immediately go into a meeting. Then after work, I might have an errand or two to run. I might have an appointment off the installation or need to go to the DMV. Having to change out of my uniform would force me to carve out time in a schedule that doesn’t have a lot of room for carving out time. What’s more, I’m PROUD of the uniform I wear, whether utility or dress uniform. I worked my tail off to earn the PRIVILEGE of wearing the uniform. I’m not too worried about people doing the stolen valor thing or civilian LEOs. You can usually distinguish those people pretty easily. I’m not too worried about troops who look like bags of manure. I’m a Senior Noncommissioned Officer. I can address a uniform deficiency off or on the installation. I’m not too worried about people coming up to me and thanking me for my service. Sure, it makes me a little sheepish. But then I think about all of those Vietnam vets who were treated like garbage and it makes me grateful that my countrymen have respect for today’s service members. I was TDY some time back. I stopped at a gas station after I got done with work and I was in my OCP. I overheard a lady saying something to her daughter. Then the little girl came up to me and thanked me for my service. It made my day because the little girl reminded me of my own daughter. What’s more, I had a bit of a cold and I wasn’t feeling very well. That little girl made me feel better. I gave her my “combat patch” because I was so thankful for her simple act of kindness on a day when I wished I felt as good as a bag of manure. To be honest, when I see people who just have to change into civvies before they leave work, it gives me the impression that they’re embarrassed of the uniform. So yeah. I’m not suggesting that we should be allowed to just go hang out in our utility uniforms. But I don’t think there’s anything wrong with grabbing a bite to eat, handling an errand or two, or even attending a mid-week church service in the uniform. Just wear it correctly and don’t do dumb stuff. Be that “walking recruiting poster” and show the Amazing American people their tax dollars at work.

Response by PO3 Ronald Haynes made Jun 15 at 2020 3:46 AM

2020-06-15T03:46:34-04:00

You are going back 50 yeas. In the NAVY we could not be in our work uniform unless we were going home off base no stops.

Response by Capt Loren Morgan made Jun 16 at 2020 4:00 PM

2020-06-16T16:00:53-04:00

It is not new. Back in the late 60s through the mid 70s, the services required that we not wear any uniforms for activity off the base, gradually the changed to allow class A or B, but not utilities. That also became less restrictive by the 90s. It changes with the political climate.

Response by Capt David Verploegh made Jun 22 at 2020 10:50 AM

2020-06-22T10:50:26-04:00

Hell YES! Uning camos as daily uniforms makes our military look like they should be taking out the garbage!

Response by Capt David Verploegh made Jun 22 at 2020 10:53 AM

2020-06-22T10:53:57-04:00

Hell, yes! Wearing camos as a daily uniform makes our military look like they should be taking out the garbage. And off base, traveling, shopping... it sucks!

Response by SSgt Kathy Ragsdale made Jun 28 at 2020 1:52 PM

2020-06-28T13:52:29-04:00

Well, back in my day (got out in '92) we weren't allowed to were fatigues/BDU's anywhere off base except home. No dine in restaurants, no grocery shopping. Maybe a convenience store for gas but I can't remember.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Jul 5 at 2020 6:29 PM

2020-07-05T18:29:11-04:00

If the uniform is good enough to die in it's good enough to wear off post.

Response by MSgt Mason Manner made Jul 8 at 2020 5:34 PM

2020-07-08T17:34:05-04:00

Back in the day you were FORBIDDEN to wear fatigue uniforms off base/post for a while we operated in a happy medium but now it's OUT OF CONTROL

Response by Cpl Jeff Barrient made Aug 2 at 2020 1:50 AM

2020-08-02T01:50:03-04:00

That’s been the rule for Marines.. We can only wear cammies off base if your “on the clock”

Response by MSG Felipe De Leon Brown made Aug 5 at 2020 6:56 PM

2020-08-05T18:56:55-04:00

Good issue for a conversation.
I think that a ban of uniforms that are primarily for field use when off base should be DoD policy with a very few special circumstances (e.g., gassing up, emergency/urgent vehicle service, specialized medical care that has to be prerformed at a civilian facility, etc.). Insofar as on-base wear of the utility or field uniform is concerned, I feel that it would have to do with what the unit does on a typical day. Combat arms, parachute riggers, mechanics are normally performing duties that involve getting dirty. Field uniforms on base and traveling to and from off-base housing? Yes. Hanging out at a mall? Nope.

Response by SSG Walter Corretjer made Aug 10 at 2020 10:47 AM

2020-08-10T10:47:02-04:00

Absolutely correct.I have been already for years,trying to make the system concious about this horrendous bad dressing habit,inmerse in the system.Is so disgusting to see soldiers,airmen,sailors and even marines nowadays,that don't have the pride and don't care about on how they look in public.To be around everywhere in a combat uniform,is extremely disgusting and of very bad taste.It's like shooting a negative public relations projection,an unstable atmosphere,since you are bringing the combat scenario all around,and instead of looking your best,you are showing your worst.When I joined the military by the year 1971,it was mandatory to dress in kakis or Class A's, whenever your duties were out of the field or otherwise light duties.Such mandatory regulation was also applied for indoor or classroom training,ceremonies,
graduations,promotions,
parades,air movements when flying to and from airports,train movements,reports for training,PCS reports,coming home from combat areas,and everything that involved none heavy duty work.
Is about time that the uniform code as well as regulation on the correct use and handling of the dress and utility uniforms are established on a mandatory manner.

Response by 1stSgt Ray Smith made Aug 10 at 2020 12:26 PM

2020-08-10T12:26:15-04:00

By regulation the camouflage uniform is a work uniform. Stops are not authorized between home and work. Only stops authorized are short stops. Not going in and doing your grocery shopping.

Response by GySgt Robert Otto made Aug 21 at 2020 10:12 AM

2020-08-21T10:12:09-04:00

Everyone needs to go back to the uniform regs that were in effect during WW2 and review them. All military personnel were REQUIRED to wear the dress uniform at all times. They were no permitted to wear civilian clothes. Do you want to go back to those days? There is a dress uniform and a "working" uniform, especially for dirty jobs. Seems like today the people in the military are pushing the envelope on the uniform regulations or they just don't care about how they dress or how the public looks at them. If you don't like the unifrom Regulations then don't stay in the military. No one is twisting your arm to stay in.

Response by SFC Laurie Schultz made Aug 28 at 2020 3:52 PM

2020-08-28T15:52:10-04:00

I agree Bs should be worn in garrison. Many don’t like that because they can’t hide the fatness as well.

Response by CW2 Geoff Zorger made Aug 28 at 2020 5:47 PM

2020-08-28T17:47:21-04:00

A resounding YES. Wearing camos off base is not showing that you are a true professional nor does it give the true merit your branch deserves and your unit deserves. With the turmoil everywhere in this great country it is unsettling to see someone dressed for battle.

Response by Sgt Michael Clifford made Sep 2 at 2020 8:54 PM

2020-09-02T20:54:50-04:00

Yes,

Response by SSG(P) Danielle Birtha made Sep 6 at 2020 7:46 PM

2020-09-06T19:46:41-04:00

Old question, different days. "When I was enlisted..." ... wear of fatigues off post was limited to those authorized to live off post, and ONLY to stop for gas on the way to and from.
Everyone else wore civilian, or dress uniform...
Reason given:
1. We WILL present the best possible appearance, and decorum, while off post interacting with civilians.
2. The people know we are here. We don't want them to feel like they live in a Military State.
3. We WILL present the best possible appearance, and decorum, while off post interacting with civilians.
4. Low profile to reduce espionage attempts.
5. We WILL present the best possible appearance, and decorum, while off post interacting with civilians.

Today's Military sounds and looks different.
The Rules have changed.
And we aren't spit on, reviled, insulted, and hated... because we followed the orders of our superiors.
The Police are now victims of the new Hate being commanded against U.S. ...
As are We The Law Abiding Taxpaying Citizens who pay the Police to Serve the Law, and Protect U.S. from Domestic Violence...
Are being attacked with criminals, and illegal INVADERS, LED BY OUR OWN PUBLIC SERVANTS...
--> WHO ARE LEADING THE ATTACKS ON OUR MAJOR CITIES...
--> WHILE THE POLICE MUST PROTECT THE CRIMINALS FROM WE THE PEOPLE WHO TRY TO DEFEND OUR HOMES AGAINST THE CRIMINALS!!
--> TURN ON THE NEWS!!!
--> RIOTS, RIOTS EVERYWHERE... 3 MONTHS... AND OUR PUBLIC SERVANTS LEAD THE RIOTERS!!!!
--> WHILE THE POLICE HAVE TO STAND ASIDE AND ALLOW THE CRIMINALS TO ASSAULT U.S. IN OUR OWN HOMES... AT THE COMMAND OF OUR TRUSTED PUBLIC SERVANTS WHO SWORE TO PROTECT U.S. FROM DOMESTIC VIOLENCE!!!
Time to start thinking about what kind of life we the people want for our future.
STOP Voting for a Party... START Voting for U.S.
KSHAMA SAWANT IS AN IMMIGRANT!!!
She has used her newly acquired citizenship to inflict Taliban Terrorism, with her newly acquired U.S.. Public Servant Office... TO OPPRESS AND DESTROY THE LIVES OF THE PEOPLE WHO VOTED HER INTO OFFICE ... COMMITTING INSURRECTION AGAINST A METROPOLITAN U.S. CITY...
--> WITH HER QUEENLY POWER OF OFFICE >(
--> AND EVEN DICTATES HOW THINGS WILL BE... TO THE MAYOR, CONGRESS, AND GOVERNOR OF WASHINGTON ... AND WE THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA...
"I AM BRINGING A DIFFERENT TYPE OF SOCIETY TO THE U.S.... A SOCIALIST ONE..." >(
Socialism is NOT Democratic... IT IS DICTATORIAL!
SHE HAS BROKEN HER OATH OF LOYALTY TO THE U.S. ...
AND SHOULD BE ON A BOAT HOME, STRIPED OF HER CITIZENSHIP AND BANNED ON PAIN OF DEATH BY HANGING IF SHE RETURNS!!!
BENEDICT ARNOLD'S PUNISHMENT...
--> IS STILL THE LAW FOR TRAITOR'S AND INSURRECTIONISTS >(
Instead... you might be joining the homeless who are being rounded up and put on Cruise ships to Dachau... because we can't have the legislated homeless wandering our streets... it looks bad...
--> DEMOCRATIC Dictators of the U.S. ... August 2020 >(
--> Adolf Hitler... 1934 ... Fascism killed over 6 million NOT Jews... Political Dissidents, Homeless, Elderly, LGBT, PEOPLE OF COLOR WHO WOULD NOT SLAVE FOR THE DEMOCRAT DICTATORS, ... and anyone labeled as "NOT A GOOD NAZI" ... before they started murdering Jews in 1939 >(

Active Duty, or Veteran, you are in uniform 24/7/365...
You swore an Oath... to protect and defend we the people... against ALL enemies... Foreign AND DOMESTIC!!!
READ the Constitution... does it tell you that your Public Servant is obeying that law?
OR BREAKING EVERY WORD????
READ IT...SEE THE TRUTH...
VOTE ACCORDINGLY...
KICK ALL OF THE INCUMBENT TRAITORS TO THE CURB... ALL OF THEM!!!
Regardless of Party... THEY ARE WORKING FOR OUR ENEMIES!
--> THEY ARE LEGISLATING OUR NATION AWAY TO EVERY ENEMY IN OUR HISTORY...

VOTE FOR THE OTHER GUY...
LAST CHANCE...
NOW... OR ACCEPT THE CHAINS OF COMMUNIST OPPRESSION TO OUR ENEMIES...
... AS DICTATED BY YOUR TRAITOR COMMUNIST PUBLIC --> SERVANTS...
--> WHO ARE NOW ATTEMPTING TO RULE U.S. ...
--> BY BREAKING OUR LAWS... FREELY!!!
WAKE ... UP!!!
THEY SHOULD BE IN PRISON, NOT IN ELECTED OFFICE!!!
DUTY - HONOR - COUNTRY
READ THE CONSTITUTION!!!
While it still exists?

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2020 9:50 PM

2020-10-17T21:50:24-04:00

Well for your information, that was the DOD policy back in the day when I was in the Corps -40 years ago. We weren't permitted to wear our BDUs out in town at all for security reasons. This is not something new. The wearing of BDUs out in town only came about after 9/11 I believe.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2020 9:53 PM

2020-10-17T21:53:39-04:00

I'm not sure why you are asking this question but that was the policy when I was in the Corps nearly 40 years ago. We were not permitted to wear our BDUs out in town at all. I am not sure why one would want to wear your BDUs in public except for grabbing lunch through a drive through. I think after 9/11 they thought it was a good idea.

Response by MSgt Michael Bulger made Dec 22 at 2020 11:44 AM

2020-12-22T11:44:31-05:00

Yes. Service uniform should be daily wear unless you are in the field or getting dirty. The troops off base look like a bag of rags in ACU/BDU Camo.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2020 12:06 PM

2020-12-22T12:06:54-05:00

Great idea, you should see the Air Force running all over Vegas, in uniform, in the middle of the duty day. I often wonder do they not have an actual duty, function or job or are they all off in the middle of the week and wear their uniform off-duty?

Response by Cpl George Goodwin made Dec 22 at 2020 7:49 PM

2020-12-22T19:49:04-05:00

As SGM Erik Marquez says, the Marines will say yes and the Army will say no. The military used to focus more on tradition but today they are trying to modernize perception. If a Marine goes out in public in their class A's people are always making positive comments. Soldiers out in public in BDU's don't usually get those comments. If we want peoples respect we have to represent our branch properly. BDU's in general make you look like a bag of crap.

Response by SGT Tom Recupero made Dec 23 at 2020 12:22 AM

2020-12-23T00:22:08-05:00

If you live off post, you’re not going to change when you get on post or before you get home.

Response by SPC Timothy Stafford made Dec 23 at 2020 2:58 AM

2020-12-23T02:58:59-05:00

The DoD should leave the discretion up to commanders. The uniform is probably the greatest recruiting tool known to man. A good commander knows which uniforms are correct for any situation.

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Dec 23 at 2020 7:52 AM

2020-12-23T07:52:25-05:00

When I was in, fatigues/BDU's were unauthorized off-post, unless you were on a work detail. Class A's or civvies, period. The only exception was if a soldier had off-post housing, and then it was strictly to-from the base. Stop for a loaf of bread or a quick beer and you could get jammed up if caught by a superior, the MP's, or anyone who wanted to jerk you around and dropped a dime. Personally, I'd like to see the military reinstate that edict. We dealt with it, the new generation can too.