Should I wear my Dress Blues to my little brother's Navy basic graduation? If I do, is the beret still authorized headgear?

CPT Mark Brogan — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 13:48:03 -0400

My little brother is asking me to attend the ceremony and I'm debating on wearing blues. I've been retired since 07, medically from getting wounded in Iraq. I still fit in uniform well and obviously I'd shave the beard. I've seen people encourage wearing your uniform(dress) as a retiree. Opinions? Is the beret still authorized headgear if I do wear it?

Response by COL Randall C. made Sep 18 at 2022 1:57 PM

COL Randall C. — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 13:57:47 -0400

You're entitled, so it's your call.

I recently was pondering "should I or shouldn't I" when I was invited to a promotion ceremony of a old friend who is still serving. I opted for "shouldn't" as it was more informal.

However, if it is a more formal occasion, go for it!!! I would absolutely don the uniform if I were going to a formal ceremony. Just my two cents, but don't listen to anyone that says "you shouldn't" .. it is entirely your call and what you're comfortable with.

Regarding headwear - wear the uniform you were authorized when you served or what's current, so yes your beret is acceptable (and still is now).

One thing that trips a lot of people up is forgetting about the SSI they wear. Though it's unlikely anyone will say anything, you probably still have the SSI you wore on active duty on your left sleeve. You should replace it with the "Army Retired" one. Again, it's a minor thing that likely only the nit-noids will bother you with (however, there's always one...)

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Sep 18 at 2022 4:08 PM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 16:08:20 -0400

Remember the tennis shoes. LOL

Response by SP5 Peter Keane made Sep 18 at 2022 6:21 PM

SP5 Peter Keane — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 18:21:10 -0400

Only if he asked you to wear them.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2022 6:35 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 18:35:51 -0400

Please don't. I just went to watch one of my Soldiers graduate Airborne School and I saw a person wearing his Dress Blue's. I realized he was retired. To me it can comes across selfish. Could you imagine wearing your college garb from when you graduated as a guest to another graduation? I am going to a wedding soon. I will only wear my uniform if I am asked too. I don't want any recognition on that day. You will run a good chance on going out that evening while you are in uniform and someone greeting you first rather then your little brother. Make the day just about him.

Response by SSG Byron Hewett made Sep 18 at 2022 7:10 PM

SSG Byron Hewett — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 19:10:06 -0400

Sir, you don't do it for you, you do it to honor them or(your little brother) your not doing it to show off you doing it honor and support, your brother will appreciate it more than any thing.
recently a nurse at the correctional facility I work at made that request of me I did so for her only as well as did her Uncle we were the only two at her wedding in Navy and Army dress uniforms it turns out she was trying to honor us. I'm sure your brother will really appreciate it.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Sep 19 at 2022 7:47 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 07:47:19 -0400

A properly worn uniform standard does not change for a Veteran. Wear it with pride.

Response by SMSgt Henry Kiester made Sep 19 at 2022 10:30 AM

SMSgt Henry Kiester — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 10:30:38 -0400

General thought - every official ceremony I organized or participated in, stated the dress code for guests and participants. Is there a (published) dress code for military and civilians attending the graduation? If not, there should be - this would standardize things for everyone. just my two cents.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 19 at 2022 3:21 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 15:21:11 -0400

Berets are still authorized. I think that if you feel strongly in your heart to wear it, then do it! You deserve to still wear it sir. You earned the right to wear it for life and thank you for your service! God bless you.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Sep 20 at 2022 9:14 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 09:14:44 -0400

If you want to wear it go for it. Just wear it correctly and in standards. It drives folks nuts when guys put on the old uniform and don't shave or cut their hair. There are always family members attending graduations wearing uniforms from their previous service. You will most likely not be the only one dressed out.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Sep 24 at 2022 11:00 AM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Sat, 24 Sep 2022 11:00:34 -0400

The question is "Should I?" All I can say is that I would not. It's his day. I would want to identify as a veteran as well, but not steal the thunder from your brother and his shipmates.
Instead, wear a sport jacket with mini-medals or the new mini ribbon racks you can buy.