If you had a choice, which uniform pattern/style would you want to wear?

2013-12-13T00:22:55-05:00

If you had a choice, which uniform pattern/style would you want to wear?<div> </div><div>This year, the Joint Staff’s top enlisted adviser, Marine Sgt. Maj. Bryan Battaglia, said the mix of uniforms makes the U.S. military look like a “Baskin-Robbins” and signaled his support for a common uniform. But Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Amos recently said preserving the Corps’ MARPAT pattern is a top priority and declared that his service will stick to it “like a hobo to a ham sandwich.” </div>

Response by CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2013 12:26 AM

2013-12-13T00:26:32-05:00

I wish they would just stop changing the uniform. Someone is making money.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2013 1:01 AM

2013-12-13T01:01:34-05:00

Back to BDU or Multicam, but please think of a long term solution instead of having to think about the same problems in a few years *cough*

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2013 1:21 AM

2013-12-13T01:21:18-05:00

I would have to respectfully disagree with the Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Amos. There are so many benefits that would come out of having a common camo uniform. I do not think we will ever find a uniform that will fit all environments. I believe we classify one primary uniform for wear when we are not deployed and then have multiple uniforms that are only issued when we deploy. This would also make the uniforms more affordable for personnel at all ranks. I believe our senior leaders have to make solid business decisions that are based on knowledge rather than emotion.

Response by SFC James Baber made Dec 13 at 2013 6:47 AM

2013-12-13T06:47:38-05:00

Does anyone remember that the BDUs lasted for almost 2 decades with no issues, and were used by at least 3 if not 4 of the 5 services during that time period, and we utilized them for garrison/field/combat and were quite successful in all areas. Somebody is just looking to help out a friend of a friend to make a buck and maybe even receive a kickback or a job upon retirement, that is normally what is the bottom line when it is truly looked deep enough through all the bs and rhetoric.

Response by CPO Terry Ashmore made Dec 13 at 2013 7:25 AM

2013-12-13T07:25:45-05:00

A common uniform would be great. I remember in the late 90's, I was assigned to an Joint unit and we all wore the Woodland BDU's as a common uniform, and we updated patches and identification accordingly. It worked out well, but that was before a lot of the digital patterns came out.

Response by SPC Christopher Morehouse made Dec 13 at 2013 9:24 AM

2013-12-13T09:24:17-05:00

I understand the desire for the services to be uniform; I mean that’s the whole point of a uniform in the first place. But to set one common camo uniform seems a bit asinine. I mean, what’s the point really? The old woodland BDU made sense as a common uniform for the Army and Marines because most of the training we did was in woodland environments. But then you get deployed somewhere, and if it is not in a woodland area, and you might actually NEED camo, then you’re going to be wearing something else. (Chocolate chips in desert storm, DCU in Iraq and Afghan, etc).

So although I understand the desire, the fact is a common camo uniform doesn't make much sense. Maybe instead of defining uniforms by service, we could have a common utility uniform and then regional tactical uniforms for training/deployment. This to me would make more sense. A simple OD, Navy Blue, black or whatever utility/cover all/ whatever you want uniform for day to day duty and non-combat deployed folk, and then battle dress defined by region for when/who needed.

You will never be wearing the same stuff in Kawait as Korea, so why bother defining a common cammo pattern for everyone everywhere to begin with?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2013 11:15 AM

2013-12-13T11:15:17-05:00

Honestly, as long as it is durable, functional, inexpensive and actually WORKS as intended (to camouflage) I really don't care which it is. I do, however, like the MARPAT better than the others. It certainly isn't the only thing they do well, but the Marines definitely have a lock on the uniforms. 

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2013 11:19 AM

2013-12-13T11:19:49-05:00

A universal camouflage across all the services makes sense. Bottom line, its about combat effectiveness. All the politics surrounding the individual services wanting to preserve their own pattern is bull. You have service and dress uniforms to show off the 'uniqueness' of your own service. Politics of that nature have no place in selecting or wearing utility uniforms.

Response by MAJ Gregory M. made Dec 13 at 2013 11:23 AM

2013-12-13T11:23:03-05:00

Multicam works great, there's a ton of kit on the market in the pattern, and I already have it in my closet from the last deployment. Let's just go with that.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Dec 13 at 2013 11:38 AM

2013-12-13T11:38:48-05:00

I'm hoping someone here can help explain the historical (recent) context to me. This is what I am tracking; please correct me if I am mistaken. During the 90s, the services generally had a common field uniform. In the early 2000s, we deploy multiple service branches to Iraq (for example), yet they utilize very different field uniforms...some of which clearly not meeting the spirit/intent of camouflage. Why did this departure from a common uniform happen? If we had multiple service branches in Iraq at the same time, then why were they not wearing the best-in-class camo uniform? How did this decision come about? ** Note: please provide some facts if you can, instead of just putting senior leaders on blast with no facts. **

Response by SPC Christopher Morehouse made Dec 13 at 2013 3:02 PM

2013-12-13T15:02:06-05:00

Isn't that what I said?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2013 5:11 PM

2013-12-13T17:11:23-05:00

I agree with those that have said just PICK one and STICK WITH IT!!! And they need to get a group of guys who've BEEN THERE and DONE THAT to wear them for a couple of weeks and tell them what WILL and WON'T work... (e.g. the STUPID velcro on the ACU) I will say, though, that against a technologically equipped force (such as China) we simply MUST be wearing a digital pattern... the purpose of the Digi-cam is to make you difficult for a COMPUTER to identify, and as a former graphic designer, I can tell you that the ACU was EXCELLENT at that...  I had to spend HOURS and HOURS trying to select a Soldier in ACU, while one in BDU only took a couple of clicks with the magic wand, and I had them selected... This means that an optical recognition software could EASILY tell that a Soldier in BDUs was a person, but in ACUs he would look like some kind of bush to a computer...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2013 5:16 PM

2013-12-13T17:16:10-05:00

I got no problem with the Generals idea. I think its a good pattern for all services.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2013 4:30 AM

2013-12-14T04:30:40-05:00

This is the best decision they've made in years. Shortly after enlisting, the BDUs were removed from service. Really don't know why. By returning to a standard uniform, I strongly believe we'll save much needed dollars.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2013 8:56 AM

2013-12-14T08:56:04-05:00

I understand that Congress want a our military base more of a joint force but the differences in our forces is what makes us special. The uniform is the first think you see. The ACU is the worst uniform that are out they wear put to fast for one and second before the mulitcam you were wearing Gray in a desert environment. By far the Multicam has been the best uniform out there. Does well in the environment that we as a force are operating in. Also seems to work well in a jungle environment also.

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 7:38 AM

2013-12-16T07:38:49-05:00

Multicam is the best. I'd be just fine with MARPAT though.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 9:30 AM

2013-12-16T09:30:39-05:00

I would say go to the groups that use the gear regularly and talk to them. Instead of using the ideas of guys and gals that sit in an office all day. Hit the spec-ops or the guys on the ground to get the best feed back. They will give you an honest assement of what's going to best suit the need.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 9:31 AM

2013-12-16T09:31:24-05:00

I would like to raise this question. There are two environments in which we as Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen work. That is combat and garrison (peacetime). I for one am honestly tired of everyone wearing a series of combat uniforms in garrison that honestly have us all looking like soup sandwiches. Weather it's the multicam, MARPAT or ACU they are unprofessional looking in a shop or garrison environment. Don't misunderstand me, they work in combat very well, but that is where they need to stay. I propose returning to the solid color fatigues for all services during normal garrison or peacetime operations (a blue collar suit if you will) to maintain a professional appearance, or if you are staff (NGB, pentagon, Division HQ, etc) then wear the service dress appropriate to that office. Combat orientated uniforms, whatever they end up choosing, should be issued for training and deployment only.By doing this it will maintain service individuality and save millions of dollars on silly uniform disputes. But most importantly it will return a certain level of pride in appearance amongst all services while at home or garrison and stop all this nonsense of people walking around in a uniform that looks like they slept in it the night before. No More Soup Sandwiches!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 9:34 AM

2013-12-16T09:34:23-05:00

I would say OCP as well. The FRAC versions look dingy but the Garrison version looks great and has all the positive benefits of the current ACU (minus the poor pattern). What is so funny about the Commandants statement is that for more than 20 years we ALL wore the same uniform (BDUs), so why now are we all up in arms about being so different from our fellow services? Our Unit patches, ranks, and Name Tapes are enough to make that distinction. We have our Service Dress Uniforms to make us all feel special. I'd go with the OCP, bottom-line, it works.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 9:36 AM

2013-12-16T09:36:12-05:00

Historically we in the military have worn the same combat uniform or something very close. We let our dress uniforms be our difference. I say we go with what has worked for generations, OD Green is the answer.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 9:55 AM

2013-12-16T09:55:39-05:00

I say go with Multi-cam, it works well in woodland or desert surroundings. The ACU pattern is the WORST thing that the Army has ever come up with and is a representation of everything wrong with the Army. I look forward to the day when I can put on a more sensible looking uniform and burn this digital abomination we have been walking around in for the last 8 years.

Response by SSG Kevin McCulley made Dec 16 at 2013 9:59 AM

2013-12-16T09:59:23-05:00

I don't care, just get rid of UCP ASAP.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 10:27 AM

2013-12-16T10:27:46-05:00

Everyone is all Multicam! ... MARPAT! ... Next cool guy operator pattern! And I'm all "can I just get my one piece flight suit back please?" Because those were fantastic.
Now for the real discussion:
I think I am going to have the dissenting opinion on this. I understand the budgetary constraints, the "financial crisis" that we are in now and how much sense (cents?) it would make to have a common uniform to "save taxpayers money." However, I like that fact that I can look at a uniform and see Marine, Navy, Air Force versus trying to have to guess by haircuts, rolled up sleeves and headgear. A few years back the whole joint base concept came into being and I started to see more "sister services" folks walking around on Army installations (perhaps it was because of where I was stationed at the time) so it was easier for me to differentiate between who was who.
Why do I believe all of this is important? Well besides tradition and individuality of each service, the regulations that each service has on wear and appearance of uniforms differs between branches. Sleeves rolled/un-rolled, boots bloused/un-bloused etc. There is uniformity without uniformity.
Who is to say once we have the same service work uniforms they won't push for the same service dress uniforms for the same reasons? Marines with Navy dress uniforms, Army with Air force dress uniforms. Camo patterns are the tip of the iceberg, just the tip...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 1:22 PM

2013-12-16T13:22:21-05:00

MARPAT!

Response by MCPO Robert Kelley made Dec 16 at 2013 3:28 PM

2013-12-16T15:28:41-05:00

I still don't understand the USN NWU, why would you want to make yourself harder to see at sea (nevermind in the sea)? I just don't understand where that uniform would be a benefit. Having worn the Coast Guard ODU for some time I do understand the utility improvements of the change, just not the need for the color pattern.

I don't see the need to wear any of the utility uniforms in an office enviroment.

Response by CPT Brandon Christensen made Dec 16 at 2013 3:29 PM

2013-12-16T15:29:59-05:00

I would say lets go with the Marines uniform, but allow the army to have modifications. Like allow us to have the unit patch, and the combat patch under the American Flag, and our name plates horizontal and not at an angle.

Response by SSG Luis Ortiz Rodriguez made Dec 16 at 2013 3:41 PM

2013-12-16T15:41:04-05:00

Multicam, please.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 4:53 PM

2013-12-16T16:53:31-05:00

I think the MARPAT is a good example of getting it right the first time.

As far as Multicam goes last time I checked (which is too long ago to recall accurately) the US4CES traditional was out performing Multicam.

I could be mistaken of course, but I was surprised to here that US4CES got the axe.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 11:17 PM

2013-12-16T23:17:10-05:00

The Multicam uniform is amazing in wear and in meeting its designed purpose: TO ACTUALLY CAMOUFLAGE US!

Response by SPC Julian Williams made Dec 17 at 2013 10:16 AM

2013-12-17T10:16:11-05:00

marpat is the best. I liked the ACU's but when i ran into marines I wished I'd had their uniform.

Response by SSG John Schwentner made Dec 17 at 2013 1:28 PM

2013-12-17T13:28:25-05:00

WOODLAND BDU'S

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2013 4:45 PM

2013-12-17T16:45:51-05:00

The Multicam is the best option currently available.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2013 10:30 PM

2013-12-17T22:30:58-05:00

We are testing new uniforms here at APG. We will have new stuff soon and that's all I will say about that!!!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2013 9:04 AM

2013-12-18T09:04:16-05:00

At the end of the day, the choice has to make financial sense. All branches have used the BDU in the past, they all have regulations to govern the wear of the uniform, they are easily integrated back into the supply system, and are still being produced by manufacturers. The BDU would serve as the duty uniform while in a training or non-deployment status. Starched and Spit is the Garrison standard. Contingency/deployment operations will use Multicam.

The era of Joint bases is not an excuse to blend our forces nor is it a reason to cling to uniform segregation. Joint Force Senior Leaders will continue to work together to enforce standards across the installation.

P.S. The Army could learn a few things from the Marine Corps when it comes to enforcing uniform standards, but that's another conversation!

Response by CMC Robert Young made Dec 18 at 2013 11:36 AM

2013-12-18T11:36:10-05:00

The Coast Guard over the last ten years has toyed with its utility uniform for strictly CG missions but whenever we deploy with our sister services, we simply adopt whatever they wear for the duration. To me, it would make more sense if there was one (don't care what) uniform for all services with the primary influencing factor being it's functionality in the environment. That might mean having one uniform for green

environments; another for brown ones; another for urban areas....but certainly a common uniform for everybody based on application, not on service.

Think about the savings, and the simplicity for identifying friend from foe. I read an article recently about a multi agency police shooting. One of the issues that came up during the debrief was that the agencies involved all had different uniforms and it caused some confusion about who was law enforcement, who was EMS, who was a bus driver just caught in the line of fire....something to consider.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2013 6:01 PM

2013-12-19T18:01:40-05:00

I agree with Sgt. Maj. Bryan Battaglia, we look disjointed and sloppy when we roll up somewhere in 31 different flavors of uniforms. Not only will 1 uniform save the DoD money, it will make us look like a unified fighting force, whether we're fighting or not.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2013 2:14 AM

2013-12-21T02:14:09-05:00

To save money and be effective, multicams! After that, woodland and desert MARPAT as long as all the gear is coyote brown to work with both woodland and desert environments. Even better would be a single MARPAT uniform that is reversable for use in both woodland and desert.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2013 8:05 PM

2013-12-21T20:05:38-05:00

Would like to see some true leadership from our Top Brass on this issue for a "Common Uniform" collection of patterns. I see three main issues in making this decision, effectiveness, industrial longevity, and force cohesiveness.

First, these uniforms must be effective at concealing our forces from a number of "Eyes" out there. Effective to conceal from the naked eye, cameras, night vision, thermal, and other detectors our enemy uses. We all know the best way to conceal from the naked eye is to disrupt our outline and to use patterns and colors found in nature. For the tech detectors and cameras, we know digital patterns are effective. Effectiveness should not be a factor taken lightly as well as the cost is our Soldiers lives, so it must be the best. The US4CES family of patterns tested the best not only in the digital arena, but in all testing criteria, it excelled.

Second, industrial longevity, the new uniform must be able to be produced by many in order to supply all US Forces quickly with not only clothing, but PPE as well. It may even drive us to paint our vehicles the same pattern. In order to do this the DoD must select a brand new entry, one that property rights would be surrendered (NOT Crye Multicam) in order to produce quickly and low cost.

Third, Force Cohesiveness, this is one I've seen so much bickering about at Top levels and I find the situation like a bunch of fraternities battling over a college campus. This Uniform must be a pattern no service can claim solely before. "We had it first so we're better!" It needs to be a brand new pattern so all services can adopt and feel as one. Rather our enemies and the local nationals scream, "That's a Soldier!" or "That's a Marine!" They should be saying, "THAT'S AN AMERICAN!" Its ONE Flag flying over our bases there, not Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force flags. So when I hear that the Marines will stick to MARPAT like a "Hobo on a ham sandwich," I'm disheartened to hear that we want to make each other so different and not stand as one force. Our Dress Uniforms is where we can be socially distinct, on the battlefield, that needs to go out the window.

In conclusion, I would like to see us adopt a new, most effective, and distinguished uniform patterns to reset the dividing mindset the services have right now. Whether thats US4CES, Brookwood, Krytpek, BDUs even. We need to stand in the face of our enemies and let them fear "THE AMERICAN" rather than say, oh thats just a Airman (not personal), "Roll Them Over!" At least let our enemies doubt who they are engaging first, no matter who it is. DoD Force wide unity would be a more powerful weapon than different patterns.

Response by MSG Bobby Ewing made Dec 27 at 2013 12:48 PM

2013-12-27T12:48:45-05:00

I will jump on the bandwagon with those that have stated it already, the BDUs and DCUs should have never went away. We were uniformed across the services and the Marine Corps still looked uniformed with the Army while wearing their individually styled PCs.

Someone mentioned it above, we have our dress uniforms which make us unique and can be worn in garrison environments, but a uniformed fatigues across the service is best.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 2:37 PM

2013-12-27T14:37:54-05:00

I think Multicam provides the best camouflage over a broad array of environments.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2013 4:48 PM

2013-12-31T16:48:32-05:00

I know the Marine that posed for the uniform configuration in the middle.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2013 5:21 PM

2013-12-31T17:21:56-05:00

At this point.. Just pick one and lets go with it..

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2013 6:32 PM

2013-12-31T18:32:06-05:00

I perosnally like the MARPAT, but I find even the army and navy have camouflage that works well too....

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jan 4 at 2014 11:54 PM

2014-01-04T23:54:42-05:00

I am really not addressing the question but I don't want Congress having to do with anything to do with what service members where to work or to the combat zone.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2014 6:14 PM

2014-01-11T18:14:21-05:00

I say when Congress signs up for real service then we will discuss that. lol

Response by SFC James Baber made Jan 11 at 2014 10:12 PM

2014-01-11T22:12:59-05:00

I think this is a good thread for those we are trying to get to join can see the substance of some things we discuss between us as current and former military, soft spoken as well as informational and mentoring types of postings.

We also have fun at times while remaining professional.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 3:34 AM

2014-01-20T03:34:57-05:00

I have to admit, the Marines did it right the first time with the MARPAT in uniform advancement.

I honestly loved the BDUs. If we could just:

1. Keep the ACUs' pocket template (save for the Velcro on the pockets/cuffs and replaced them with buttons),

2. Digitize our BDU/DCUs

3. Have black boots for garrison and tan boots for the field and theater, we would be good to go...Also no black beret; mandate wear of service caps for non specialized units in dress uniform and patrol caps in duty uniform and let the specialized units keep their individual berets.

I am an avid fan of the Mutlicam system, because it is a hybrid of the BDU and ACU together, with more realistic blending colors. I can't help but feel like the ACU was a last ditch effort for the Army to seem different from the Marine Corps.

I am also all about patriotism, but displaying a fully colored flag on a subdued uniform also defeats the purpose. A subdued flag instead doesn't make us any less of pursuers of freedom, right?

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 4:03 AM

2014-01-20T04:03:41-05:00

I like where GEN Odierno is going for the Army- making the new uniform be MULTICAM. It's the closest thing to BDU's we've had since BDU's were worn, (which were the last "common" uniform among the branches). However, if the Marines insist on sticking with MARPAT, (in itself a great uniform pattern) then let's all go to MARPAT. I would be willing to wear it. Otherwise, maybe we could all just go to black? But, this is a step further- our uniforms are already made by the same company, (anyone other than me notice that the only difference is the color and pattern- oh and the Marines name tapes are angled with the pockets?). Ultimately we will have to move to one uniform for work and combat in keeping with the "Joint" stuff, (our dress uniforms will always be branch specific however to maintain tradition) but let that wait. We need our pay fixed, and proper equipment etc before the Pentagon wastes any money on anything else. We can make do for now with the different uniforms- and just get rid of the horrible ACU's that don't blend into anything. My two cents....

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 6:25 AM

2014-01-20T06:25:51-05:00

As someone who has done allot of crawling around in various environments trying not to be seen…..Multi-cam is the best all round choice!

The Mar-pat is pretty good pattern or even going back to BDU/DCU would be better than ACUs.

The Sec of Def. and or CoJCS needs to end this squabble and make a decision! Lets quit wasting money, pick a decent pattern and issue it.

Multi-cam is in the system….I would just go ahead and run with that.

On the issue of gear, plate carriers, etc. Go with brown gear and buy a bunch of spray paint for where ever you deploy. Going to the jungle, hit it with some light green and dark green. Back to a desert, brown and tan.

If a broken down SFC can figure this crap out, then the leaders in the puzzle palace should have figured this out years ago.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 4:11 PM

2014-01-20T16:11:38-05:00

Honestly, Multicam has been one of the better designs. It would make sense to have all the services have one standard uniform color, as long as they can come to an understanding that there is no one cover-all-environments camouflage. We will still need different color variations of camouflage for the varying environments throughout the world.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 7:08 PM

2014-01-20T19:08:03-05:00

If I had to pick right now it would either be MARPAT or OCP (MultiCam). However, if we are going to do this right we need to source a completely new uniform in order to get the longest shelf life out of the project.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2014 3:20 PM

2014-01-24T15:20:22-05:00

I have said it before and I will continue to say it..bring back BDUs and black boots. In my opinion taking care of your uniform and putting effort into making it look good is the base level of discipline in the military. This wash and wear, fluff and buff age needs to end regardless of the pattern that is chosen. Give me a uniform that I can iron and boots that I can shine. I can still remember the feeling of walking out to Monday morning formation at 0900 with a clean, pressed, creased, sharp looking uniform and boots that looked like glass. I felt pride because I knew hat it was my effort that was put into the way I looked. I remember my leadership looking at me like they were proud to call me their Soldier. I also remember getting scuffed up when my uniform looked ate up. We were taught that our uniform is the first impression that others get of you and you only get one chance to make that first impression.

Either that or make Class B's the garrison "day-to-day" uniform.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 5:11 AM

2014-01-30T05:11:14-05:00

I really like the multicam pattern the Army uses on deployments.
It looks good, is functional camouflage, and provides a presentable and professional appearance.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 5:17 AM

2014-01-30T05:17:47-05:00

The MARPAT is one reason why we have the explosion of camo patterns for all the branches as it is. I understand wanting to be identified as a Marine, Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or coastie, but isnt it all about our country and who we serve. I say lets all adopt the Multicam, or MARPAT, put a little logo on the pocket for your branch, and calling it a day. We have spent billions across the DOD for abominiations like the ACU, ABU, and Aqua-Camo and its one of the many reasons our budgets are suffering

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 5:34 AM

2014-01-30T05:34:33-05:00

I blame this whole debacle on MARPAT and the USMC. They went and changed their uniform and the Army could not stand it. We had to copy them. What we got is and always has been a total failure. The UCP ACU has been an abomination to camouflage since it's inception. I recall the first field problem I went to when the pattern was being initially fielded. Since it was still fairly new the UCP was still the minority uniform in the formation. We went to the back woods of Fort Stewart and upon arrival could IMMEDIATELY identify and count every single Soldier wearing ACUs; the troops in BDUs blended in. That along with the reliability issues that popped up soon after has created in me a total dislike towards the ACU that will not cease until the day I can officially burn them. OCP cannot be fielded soon enough.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 7:01 AM

2014-01-30T07:01:15-05:00

Can someone please enlighten me as to how the black leather boots are functionally better than the current tan boots in use?  And how we would all be so much better if we went back to them?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2014 11:13 AM

2014-01-31T11:13:40-05:00

Lets go one step further and stop with this ridiculous camouflage uniform program. The old O.D. uniforms where more than adequate for over 40 years. Some military tech nerd and his associated congressman sent us down this road back in the 80s. There is no empirical data that equates wearing a camouflage field/combat uniform reduces casualties in any way on the battle field. Maybe save a few million and get us better body armor or a primary weapon that wasn't designed in the 50s. The DOD is all about making cuts, well one duty/field/combat uniform is a great start.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2014 11:21 AM

2014-01-31T11:21:01-05:00

We (Armed Services) need to go back to the one or two camo format that worked. One uniform for wooded, forest, vegitation, etc. and one for desert environments. The same camo needs to be assigned to ALL services. The camo explosion that has seen every service with their own camo patterns is stupid and a HUGE waste a money. Heck the Multicam pattern is better at everything than the ACU, go to that for everyone. This would lower spending, and improve logistics.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Feb 15 at 2014 1:27 PM

2014-02-15T13:27:38-05:00

One of the few things that Robert MacNamara did right as the SecDef was to streamline the logistical procurement process, to include mandating that all 4 services use the same equipment that did not have a unique need for that service. He was correct in that there is no reason why the 4 services need different boots, shoes, small arms, and yes camouflage uniforms. It is inordinately less expensive to produce 1 general uniform pattern than 12. Let the services make minor cosmetic alterations if they want (ie patches, rank insignia, etc) if they HAVE to have some level of uniqueness. I don't buy the whole "service pride" argument as a need for separate field uniforms. That is what dress uniforms are for. Downrange, I want an American to be instantly recognizable to me as an American.

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Feb 15 at 2014 2:07 PM

2014-02-15T14:07:24-05:00

I'm an old timer. Went in with the permanent press fatigues & got out during the start of the ACU's. The BDU's were supposed to be the all service uniform. Right off the bat, the SMA back then didn't want slanted pockets even though they were quite practical so that was scrubbed. Several changes had to made over the years to the BDU's. I still have a set of the old Elvis collar ones. Then in 1983 they were looking at going to a brown suede boot. When I went to PLDC in Germany, the SF guys were wearing them & they liked them. Again, politics interceded & the brown boot was scrubbed because they didn't look pretty. So it seems we have come full circle over the past 30 years. I agree, the Multicam seems like the right choice. It should be solely designed by the requirements of field soldiers not some POG's behind a desk someplace & certainly not by Congress or DoD HQ. It is much more cost effective to design things properly & practically. Whenever politics gets involved, it tends to drive up costs & doesn't satisfy the needs of the troops.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2014 3:18 PM

2014-02-15T15:18:15-05:00

There was never any call to give up the old patterns or uniform cut & material but alas, no point in beating that horse some more. I say either everyone goes to multicam or marpat. Stop wasting tax payer dollars teetering the same stuff that's been tested and proven a dozen times over. One thing for sure though, get rid of the damn velcro and zippers and return to button closures for everything and sewn on patches. I'd you're actually SOF you have a demonstrated need for the velcro. Otherwise, it's pointless and a waste of money. Next, Dutch the whole cut and material I'd the Army uniforms. Either go back to the BDU/DCU design or use the Marine design. The Army killed any durability when it tried to make people more comfortable and now our uniforms rip and fall apart five feet off of the road. As one other NCO said, just use an earth tone brown (coyote, dark earth, whatever you want to call it) for all of our OCIE. Brown is a universal color worldwide and so the best base color. Paint over it and our weapons to better match locale. Problem solved, money saved.

Response by SSgt George Brown made Feb 15 at 2014 9:49 PM

2014-02-15T21:49:49-05:00

As a civilian, I can say congress does not understand the military and because of that, they make boneheaded decisions that impact morale, tradition, and order in the military they constantly want to under fund. It is interesting they are trying to save money on uniforms that they don't buy. That is how ignorant they are, having never served.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2014 1:31 AM

2014-02-16T01:31:40-05:00

The services can each have their 'own' dress uniform, but the field uniform needs to be the exact same for each of our services - before you could always tell who was a United States G.I. by the uniform - today with so many different ones you would be hard pressed to differentiate who is who. Besides, isn't the DoD trying to keep the cost of doing business down? One standardized field uniform would help that effort.

Response by SPC Dan Goforth made Feb 16 at 2014 1:33 AM

2014-02-16T01:33:33-05:00

MSG Quick, I like the Multicam most. The color scheme is good for most environments, it doesn't look like it needs excessive maintenance as a utility uniform, and with the fabric they made BDUs out of, it would have suitable durability.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2014 11:39 AM

2014-02-17T11:39:11-05:00

New to Rally Point everyone, although it seems close to me bc one of the founders just so happened to be my original TL on my first ODA at 5th SFG(A). That being said, with my background in that community, it begs the garrison question(which historically and most appropriately we are not that well known for), what about the head gear?

We have the funny green looking hats and our MARSOC brothers have the nice look PC's(sorry not sure what the proper marine term is for the starched sharp looking PC) and our SEAL cousins have long free flowing gorgeous hair! Ha sorry had to throw that in there!

So what about the army units wearing the berets and other units that wear PC's? Seems the one uniform makes sense but no doubt the head uniform police are determined by the branch in charge of uniform policy at the moment. I do believe historical and earned head gear as badges should be unit and branch maintained. Just a thought!

But if I had to vote...multicam is the best operationally and very common input out community and as a whole but there certainly isn't ain't thing wrong with tired and true BDU's!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2014 9:55 AM

2014-02-18T09:55:38-05:00

I guarantee no one will vote for the Navy's "Aquaflage."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2014 9:58 AM

2014-02-18T09:58:36-05:00

I think it makes sense for us to just go with Multicam for all. It's been the overwhelmingly common uniform in the OEF area for years now, and can be easily adapted to fit other services (addition/subtraction of sleeve rank, 5 point cover, etc.) Let's start making the simple things a priority.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2014 1:43 PM

2014-02-23T13:43:01-05:00

Short Answer, Yes! I have suggested this for years, not only for uniformity, but to reduce costs as well.

Along with putting the same combat uniform on all the services, DoD needs to hand down the wear policies for that uniform and not allow supplementation below the DoD level. Everyone should be wearing it exactly the same, same layout for patches/rank/badges and the same standards.

It's a COMBAT UNIFORM, it should not be pressed, creased or starched, EVER! It should be wash and wear.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff need to put their ego's aside and come to a 'uniform' agreement.

Response by SSG Willis Baker made Feb 27 at 2014 10:59 PM

2014-02-27T22:59:27-05:00

I think that every soldier should be issued two set of uniforms, Woodland and Sand. With the modular Army concept, you never know where your unit my be deployed. Each service wants to have their own color to identify then from other sevices. This will never change.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2014 12:57 AM

2014-02-28T00:57:15-05:00

This should be an object lesson for the Army's leadership to make decisions with a bit more dignity and practicality. There's no doubt the USMC one-upped us on this one; but our leadership won't admit to that. What depresses me is that UCP was ultimately approved by GEN Schoomaker, a soldier who should've known better. When we're all told what to wear, these matters can become quite important.
http://www.military.com/daily-news/2014/02/27/army-considers-marine-corps-camo-for-new-uniforms.html#.Uw9EhiFxTSk.facebook

Army Considers Marine Corps Camo for New Uniforms | Military.com

In April, the U.S. Army plans to unveil a new camouflage strategy that could result in soldiers wearing Marine Corps desert and woodland patterns into combat.
Nearly one year ago, uniform officials ...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2014 1:58 PM

2014-02-28T13:58:22-05:00

I always laugh at the navy and their blue uniform, I can only imagine what would happen if they went overboard in a ship

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2014 10:14 AM

2014-03-04T10:14:26-05:00

No need for my comment see SFC John Gates. Multicam and brown OCIE

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2014 10:12 PM

2014-03-14T22:12:15-04:00

I believe we should focus less on choosing one pattern for everyone and focus more on implementing whatever camouflage pattern works most effectively in the theater of operations in which we are deployed. If it happens to be three or four or twelve different patterns, so be it. The most effective pattern can be issued through RFI before the units deployment to that theater.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2014 5:29 PM

2014-04-06T17:29:14-04:00

Love what The Commandant Of The Marine Corps said!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2014 5:29 PM

2014-04-06T17:29:47-04:00

Was it not 12-13 years ago that we all had the same camo?

Response by CPL Stephen Kirt made Apr 7 at 2014 8:16 PM

2014-04-07T20:16:58-04:00

I really like the look of the Multicam. I've been saying that since it was first introduced. It looks better and dare I say it even more professional than the garbled mess that the UCP ACU is.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2014 7:13 AM

2014-04-08T07:13:05-04:00

Well I would say that is a mighty tasty Ham Sandwich I think that the whole discussion is a wash. The uniform in my opinion should all be the same with your service sewn on the blouse. Uniformity can be a good thing in Utility dress But keep individual dress uniforms.

Response by SGT James McCue made Apr 8 at 2014 8:54 AM

2014-04-08T08:54:02-04:00

I support the multicam uniform, but Congress will never pay the money for it.

As a practical choice, I would wear the MARPAT uniforms only if they removed the little Corps logos.

Response by CW2 Jonathan Kantor made Apr 8 at 2014 10:35 AM

2014-04-08T10:35:49-04:00

Multicam. It's comfortable, sensible, it works, and I have 6 sets of them. It never made any sense to me that I would see folks in different uniforms downrange when we are all fighting in the same area. Do away with distinct service uniforms and go with one that works for where we fight instead. Bring back the DCUs or some variant of them, go with the Multicam since we have already spent billions of dollars on them. Abandon the ACUs because they just don't work, wear out too quickly, and also, they don't work. Did I already write that?

Our distinctive uniforms are our ASUs (And other service equivalents). Those are the uniforms in which we stand out as a separate service. The Class C uniform (ASUs) are combat uniforms. There just isn't a plausible reason that we have different ones for different services.

The pic below says it all. The purpose of camouflage is to stand out in your surroundings, isn't it?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2014 10:06 PM

2014-04-08T22:06:10-04:00

I think we should do two things: 1. Make the pattern BDU Woodland or MARPAT 2. Make it a one-piece uniform like a Combat Vehicle Crewman's Uniform (CVCU) or a pilot's flight suit.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2014 5:02 PM

2014-04-14T17:02:45-04:00

I would like to have seen the debate on this stop years ago. The uniform was changed so we could have one "universal" pattern, which didn't work and still required a different uniform based on theater. So essentially the change was pointless. In the spirit of modernization, the MARPAT is awesome, and was originally designed under Army contract if I'm not mistaken. The real point is that all these changes have been absurd and ineffective, and that makes me sick. Here we are so concerned with money that benefits and compensation are in the crosshairs, and meanwhile billions are wasted on pointless uniform changes. To include service uniforms. And I am pretty sure all Soldiers unanimously agree that everything about the ACU is terrible. What I would like to see is someone to make an educated decision and stick with it, rather than see what seems to be a decade long Fraud Waste and Abuse.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2014 8:31 AM

2014-04-18T08:31:22-04:00

I would definitely say Multicam or the MARPAT variants.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Apr 18 at 2014 10:30 PM

2014-04-18T22:30:47-04:00

For jungle warfare I would have to go with the tiger stripe uniform, otherwise I would have to go with MARPAT it just seems to blend better in other combat situations

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Apr 18 at 2014 10:35 PM

2014-04-18T22:35:37-04:00

I don't know why there have been so many changes, especially for in garrison. I preferred my old OG-507 fatigues. When deployed to fight, I understand the BDU/ACU, etc., but it isn't necessary to wear 100% of the time if not deployed.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 21 at 2014 1:49 AM

2014-04-21T01:49:22-04:00

I know not everybody has had the opportunity to wear the Multican AKA OCP's but they are by far the best uniform i have ever had the privlegde of putting on extremely comfortable decent durability and a damn smart designe the army got it right. I have worn BDU, ABU heavy and light weight, and DCU and Multicam is hands down the best.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 21 at 2014 2:44 PM

2014-04-21T14:44:30-04:00

I wold vote for the MARPART. I think it looks great, and while I have never worn it, my brother says they are comfortable. The multicams are not bad either. I have worn those and they are quite comfortable. The AF ABU's are terrible. They are uncomfortable and anytime we deploy we have to get another uniform to wear, presumably because the ABU print does not work in that enviroment.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2014 1:00 AM

2014-04-27T01:00:10-04:00

I loved my multi-cam and really wish the Army just make the change already. If the Army doesn't want to do the multi-cam design per say, then they should could the Marines' multi-cam print, but we need to keep our version of the patrol cap or we need to go back to wearing berets

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2014 6:44 PM

2014-05-01T18:44:33-04:00

Great Question MSG. This is a topic I discuss frequently. I really dislike the ACU's. I feel that they are impractical and really don't work. My favorite is with out a doubt, the multicam. My second favorite is the Marine pattern. The multicam is by far the most practical. It blends very well in dam-near every environment.

Response by MAJ Steve Sheridan made May 2 at 2014 12:59 PM

2014-05-02T12:59:20-04:00

I'm retiring this year, so I won't have to worry about this one. I've enjoyed the several different uniforms I've had over the years.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2014 2:30 PM

2014-05-02T14:30:27-04:00

In SGT MAJ Battaglia's recent statement about uniforms, he said he did not support one common uniform across the Military. He said different uniforms make the serviceman/woman proud to represent the branch they serve in. He also said the only time wearing the same uniform would be probable is when we are in theater in combat operations. As one nation fighting the same war.

I must also make a comment on the Army uniform we wear. Get rid of the Velcro. It's crap. Horrible addition to the uniform.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2014 3:38 AM

2014-05-04T03:38:18-04:00

MCU with good ole BDU features! Being an Avn Fueler, I especially enjoy the lightweight material that is particular to our own mission necessities. But, I personally feel that the MCU pattern is much more practical given our current combat environment, than the ACU pattern. Regarding specified combat patterns, a pattern needs to be decided upon for each environment of conflict; i.e. Urban, Desert, Snow, Woodland, etc.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2014 4:21 PM

2014-05-11T16:21:04-04:00

I will keep my ACU, the Army Combat Uniform is a good cut and has functional pockets. I despise Universal Camo Pattern because it is universally ineffective. Let us just switch to multi-cam or some other similar color scheme, slap it on the ACU, and continue mission. We already have the stocks and industry. The Army is just dragging its feet and managing to spend more money. Cyre was willing to negotiate, the Army wasn't. Now I have to continue wearing this abomination of a uniform.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2014 9:40 PM

2014-05-12T21:40:51-04:00

This might be an interesting take for some, so please bear with me. I am color deficient. For those of you that are familiar, technically I am red/green by older classification. The ability to easily recognize rank, name, etc. on a uniform that doesn't have a great deal of contrasting color (ABU, ACU, NWU) is pretty tough. Sticky situation for me on a joint base when I can't render the appropriate courtesy to senior officers in time. Although this might seem like a minor issue to some, I've taken enough dirty looks to feel pretty terrible. The Multicam, and darker MARPAT work better for me. Personally, I think the Multicam covers the most bang for the buck... across all branches.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2014 1:03 AM

2014-05-14T01:03:39-04:00

All services wearing the MARPAT, no patches for any services, rank on the collar and no American flag. We all know we are part of the United States Armed Forces, why have only one branch wear the American flag? Uniformity across the board will alleviate unnecessary spending across the DoD. I like the look of the OCP, however the material is the same as the ACU and it needs to go away.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2014 12:52 PM

2014-05-19T12:52:45-04:00

MARPAT across all branches.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2014 11:56 AM

2014-05-20T11:56:37-04:00

If it were MY decision and we were limited to one pattern, Multi Cam works the best in a variety of environments, as opposed to ACU which works no where. Having been in the Army for quite some time I remember the day that all services wore the BDU or DCU and that was it. I fully support a return to that, there is no reason that each service needs its own (often ineffective) camoflage pattern. It would save money, reducing redundant logistic requirements.

I can also understand the Marines' desire to keep their MARPAT, it is arguably the best of the service patterns and addresses a variety of terrains. That said I would not be averse to the use of MARPAT across the forces, as it is a tested and existing pattern that would be cheaper to adopt across forces over the time and research that would likely be spent to replace it and other patterns.

The whole camo issue is just another example of the mismanagement and corruption of the military industrial complex (in MY opinion). The ACU is the best example of this, it was picked to avoid paying Crye Precision for the rights to use Multi Cam, which we later adopted for limited use anyway. Defense money is pouring to companies every time a new pattern is adopted or proposed. The soldiers who were issued the ACU knew almost universally that it didnt work in any environment let alone all of them. Any 'so-called' research that says otherwise is and was flawed. /rant

Response by SFC James Connelly made May 29 at 2014 4:43 PM

2014-05-29T16:43:13-04:00

Can we say Scorpion?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2014 6:55 PM

2014-05-30T18:55:57-04:00

Multicam. It is great camouflage that will hide you from more than gravel. (ACU)

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2014 7:50 PM

2014-05-30T19:50:42-04:00

I would definitely go with the multicams. They are way more comfortable than the ABUs.

Response by SSG Michael Nation made Jun 1 at 2014 8:01 AM

2014-06-01T08:01:44-04:00

Multicam or MARPAT

Response by SSG Jay OConnor made Jun 2 at 2014 5:19 AM

2014-06-02T05:19:56-04:00

Personally, I've always thought that the original OD green khakis with the large rank on the sleeves looked the best but for today's modern uniform, I think the multi cams are better suited for most combat environments.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2014 12:17 AM

2014-06-09T00:17:00-04:00

Well Dont get me wrong I love the Navy and Proudly wear my uniform, but until you get to a shore command you have to wear the leather boots, let me tell you something my feet have had it with those :_(. Love the swade boots!!

Response by Sgt Seth Busse made Jun 9 at 2014 12:20 AM

2014-06-09T00:20:11-04:00

When I was in the Corps we had MARPAT and it was a pain for uniform costs since it doubled things, but knowing how effective those patterns were I would put up with that pain again and again.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2014 11:01 PM

2014-06-17T23:01:41-04:00

I do not like the idea of starching again. I hated that though it was not required we all had to anyway to ensure we did not look worse than the guy next to us that never left their desk and thought it would be a "great idea" to starch their uniform. I still have my BDUs in storage and to this day if I go and pull them out you can still hear the fresh air sound gushing out as I pull them apart when the cleaners at FLW "lightly starched" them. Please do not bring back starching. And well let's be honest I would rather not polish my boots either.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2014 11:22 PM

2014-06-17T23:22:21-04:00

Despite what some people thought about starching or shining boots, I think it helped to build individual pride in ones self. Some new and younger soldiers have a hard time with time management. Making sure you had a crisp uniform and shined boots showed leadership who cared about themselves and who could manage their time. Let's face it, it took a long time to starch your own uniform and shine your boots for the next duty day. It would not hurt my feelings if they both came back, but I would be sick to my stomach in seeing younger, and inexperienced soldiers trying to do it right.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2014 9:43 AM

2014-06-18T09:43:24-04:00

The Seabees and seals have a digital camo that looked like Marpat but is in the se hue as the multicam. Otis the best of both worlds.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2014 7:25 PM

2014-06-21T19:25:43-04:00

MARPAT or MultiCam without Velcro. No Velcro at all and MultiCam would be perfect. When I got home from Afghanistan the MultiCam went in the closet and I had to put those horrible UCP ACU's on again. Now I hear we're going to a pattern similar to MultiCam and my question is how long until THEY decide to change again. Yesterday on Army Times Facebook I see the Army approved changes to the shoulder pockets on the current ACU. I don't understand why functionality isn't the main focus here. A common uniform that works is all we need. Of course the USMC will slap their globe and anchor on their breast pocket and cover to separate themselves from the other services but that shouldn't stop everyone else from having a functional uniform.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2014 9:25 PM

2014-06-21T21:25:15-04:00

I just wish that every branch would decide on 1 for everyone and we would not have to worry about new uniforms every time someone wants their next star.

Response by LCpl Waliq Knolle made Jun 22 at 2014 8:30 AM

2014-06-22T08:30:03-04:00

I like MARPAT however, while wearing the desert version in an actual desert they tend to get ridiculously dirty and a lot of those dirt stains don't come out and its even worse when you get mud on there.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2014 1:17 PM

2014-06-22T13:17:35-04:00

My choice would be my MARPAT, Woodland and Desert. The major reason is because they are so comfortable.

Final reason is HM's, Doc's, are meant to be with the USMC.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2014 2:10 PM

2014-06-22T14:10:10-04:00

I do not care. Just as long as we get away from Velcro.

Response by SFC Michael W. made Jun 22 at 2014 10:46 PM

2014-06-22T22:46:13-04:00

BDUs and DCUs any day of the week because they look a lot more sharp than the new uniforms!

Response by CPO Greg Frazho made Jun 23 at 2014 1:15 PM

2014-06-23T13:15:58-04:00

If I had a choice, I think the first thing I'd answer is what I would NOT wear: ACU, Air Force pseudo-Tiger stripe and NWU Type I. Flat out, those uniforms are no damn good, especially NWU Type I. ACU is probably the least of the worst. What would I wear? Depends on the scenario and the location: homeport (in the rear), NWU Type III. Commonly called the guacamole uniform. In deployed areas, again, it depends on the situation. Multi-cam ain't a bad uniform; however the velcro starts going after a while and after a few months, the camo pattern and the fabric itself starts wearing thin. For OIF, I wore classic desert tri-color (regular and modified) and for OEF, I wore multi-cam. On the high seas? That's a tougher call. Coveralls, probably. Least maintenance.

Response by CPO Tim Dickey made Jun 24 at 2014 9:07 PM

2014-06-24T21:07:06-04:00

I have to agree with CPO Greg Frazho about the NWU Type II/III. I found them to be comfortable and really durable.

Response by CWO3 Curtis Conway made Jun 25 at 2014 10:31 AM

2014-06-25T10:31:16-04:00

Context is Everything! The uniform should depend on the context of its use. To wear a camo uniform aboard ship makes no sense to me at all except for Marines, or perhaps other services visiting. However, if they are intended to be part of ships complement for a time, then their work uniform should conform to the context of that activity. Naval personnel should be wearing low lint coveralls, designed to task, and perhaps colored by departments (if not all the same color). When in the water, every sailor should be easy to spot from the air or water . . . SO WE CAN RESCUE THEM!!! And of course I am not sensitive about this topic in any way form or fashion (tongue in cheek).

As for the other folks, flight suits should be an appropriate color with the context, or their environment, should they exit the cockpit, and meet the usual utility, and fire safety standards. As far as combat troops, most everyone could wear the same thing (terrain dependent [woodland, desert or Arctic]), except the Marines. Once again context is everything, and amphibious warfare, and that aquatic/beach/combat area environment requires utility that other services have tried to copy ever since the Vietnam Conflict. So The Marines should be different than the other combat arms.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Oct 14 at 2014 12:51 AM

2014-10-14T00:51:09-04:00

Tunica and Braccae.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 2:46 AM

2014-10-14T02:46:52-04:00

We just got out of Jungle School here in Hawaii. They issued us two sets of BDU's for the field problem. I gotta say, after 3 weeks in the field getting rained on, that is an awesome uniform. I'll take the BDU cut, lack of velcro and pocket placement with either the BDU pattern or Multicam.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 4:32 AM

2014-10-14T04:32:23-04:00

I would go back to the Green pickles or the khakis unless the camouflage is required. If we need a camo for garrison shouldn't it be the color of office cubicles in case we have an active shooter event?

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Oct 14 at 2014 6:14 AM

2014-10-14T06:14:43-04:00

Something a bit more casual...

Response by SGT Richard H. made Oct 14 at 2014 8:56 AM

2014-10-14T08:56:53-04:00

I would vote MARPAT, with both environmental variations. As great as the Scorpian/multicam looks, The concept of single uniform/all environments has just never worked...ACU is the biggest flop of all in that arena. It's more like single uniform/NO environments.

Response by SGT James Elphick made Feb 19 at 2015 12:55 PM

2015-02-19T12:55:18-05:00

The MARPAT in my opinion is best. Simple yet effective with one color body armor and accessories that works with both woodland and desert uniforms. The Multicam is nice but not much different from the MARPAT I don't think. I think the necessity of camouflage is over-stated in most instances as well. Being difficult to see and having your outline broken up is good, but we don't need to go through 6 different uniforms to make that happen. Also, what in the world is the Navy thinking with blue uniforms? Blending in with the ocean when someone falls overboard is not a good thing.

Response by MAJ Chris Ballard made Mar 16 at 2015 9:24 AM

2015-03-16T09:24:30-04:00

Both the multi-cam and the MARPAT are effective. Flip a coin and make whichever wins universal. We need to quit trying to be "more specialer" than each other.

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Mar 16 at 2015 9:32 AM

2015-03-16T09:32:53-04:00

Thank you!! Back in 2000 we all wore one uniform and that was it. We did it before lets do it again. The military is wasting too much money on individuality for uniforms. I'm sorry Navy I have to say what is up with the blue berries?
Not to be bias, but I like the Marines uniforms. They work well and have been proven as well. However, If something better came along, go for it. Just make all branches ware it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 10:42 AM

2015-03-16T10:42:05-04:00

I'd like to get a Tigerstripe styple uniform.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2015 10:53 AM

2015-03-16T10:53:28-04:00

MARPAT seems to be the best in the business followed closely by Multi-cam. I worked with the Army in Afghan and they had the Multi-cam and it blended really well. Almost as good as MARPAT

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 16 at 2015 12:36 PM

2015-03-16T12:36:57-04:00

We need more than one. We need an everyday uniform, that is good for most places, and then some variants. ACU (single uniform for everywhere) was a noble idea... except the pattern doesn't work in any environment except the living room. I like the way the Marines do it, wherein they issue woodland and desert variants, so we are not wasting time issuing uniforms when we have to go some place.

I don't get the Air Force Tiger Stripes, or the Navy Blue Digitals...

I do love the functionality of the ACU, but we need to loose some (most) of the velcro.

Response by Sgt Cody Dumont made Mar 16 at 2015 2:48 PM

2015-03-16T14:48:39-04:00

Oorahhh. I prefer the old woodland pattern from early 1990's. But it he Marines paid for our MARPAT and we are going to use it.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-06-02T14:09:18-04:00

ACU's were JUST DUMB! Any Infantryman worth his salt hates them because: A) The pattern doesn't hide you. B) The Velcro is too noisy. C) The Chinese collar is useless. D) Velcro pants pockets won't stay shut with a load. E) Zippers cannot be replaced in the field if it breaks -unlike a simple button.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Jun 13 at 2015 11:37 PM

2015-06-13T23:37:58-04:00

MARPAT

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2015 1:26 PM

2015-06-18T13:26:27-04:00

I'm good with whatever uniform comes to be the "standard" as long as it's NOT NWUs.

Response by SFC John Trujillo made Jun 18 at 2015 7:40 PM

2015-06-18T19:40:12-04:00

What does the terrain look like where you're operating? The old OG107s were a better camouflage uniform but the kickbacks on a $14.00 uniform doesn't go as far as the $72.00 ripstarts they were replaced with.

Response by CPT Chris Loomis made Jun 18 at 2015 8:56 PM

2015-06-18T20:56:26-04:00

Heck, I stay with the ACUs just so I don't have to buy a boat load of new uniforms!

Response by SSG Kevin McCulley made Jun 18 at 2015 8:57 PM

2015-06-18T20:57:00-04:00

The one I don't have to purchase.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2015 10:04 AM

2015-06-19T10:04:48-04:00

Personally I would have Marpat for Garison and multicam /scorpion for theater purposes

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 28 at 2015 9:28 PM

2015-06-28T21:28:31-04:00

I wish they would do away with the damn velcro shit.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-08-07T15:58:20-04:00

I truly love the USMC MarPat woodlands.

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Aug 21 at 2015 1:38 AM

2015-08-21T01:38:39-04:00

If we want multiples I would choose the Kryptek patterns. But if we want one single pattern I would choose the OCP pattern. UCP has proven itself as ineffective (mainly because of the coloring) and the Army finally made a good decision in that it should be replaced. Patterns will continue to evolve combine that with technology and we will have the chameleon pattern. (This actually exist and is in testing)

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2016 4:17 AM

2016-11-25T04:17:41-05:00

As in camouflage pattern or cut?

Response by 1stSgt Eugene Harless made Nov 25 at 2016 7:52 AM

2016-11-25T07:52:33-05:00

Why not just be FABULOUS!!!! :) Imagine How ISIS would feel getting taken out by Spec Ops wearing these?

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Nov 25 at 2016 9:15 AM

2016-11-25T09:15:24-05:00

Who really cares (except the uniform makers), it will change again in a very short time.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2016 9:15 AM

2016-11-25T09:15:50-05:00

Tiger pattern from the Vet Nam Era.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2016 9:37 AM

2016-11-25T09:37:22-05:00

I miss the old BDU's simply for the ability to starch and press them. It was just something about putting on a fresh starched uniform. I don't miss shining the boots, though.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2016 10:00 AM

2016-11-25T10:00:20-05:00

BDUs I hate that joint commands now look like multinational commands. Also most of these "battle" uniforms are worn exclusively in garrison so wouldn't it be cheaper to wear flat OD green BDUs like the Israelis? It would save a ton of money and either way you aren't going to blend into your office.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Nov 25 at 2016 11:03 AM

2016-11-25T11:03:59-05:00

Woodland.

Response by SFC George Smith made Nov 25 at 2016 6:02 PM

2016-11-25T18:02:25-05:00

How about getting Uniforms that blend into Terrain

Response by LCpl Donald Faucett made Nov 25 at 2016 6:40 PM

2016-11-25T18:40:37-05:00

Marines are mighty particular about their uniform. Strict rules for various uniform of the day.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2016 12:20 PM

2016-11-27T12:20:38-05:00

Multicam

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Nov 28 at 2016 1:34 PM

2016-11-28T13:34:38-05:00

If I had my way I would stay with the ARMY uniform we have now or what ever current pattern the military is using but I would develop this uniform could be worn in side or outside urban/jungle or desert type. you could save a lot of money of the design and style type uniform, just pull all the Velcro patches and goodies off and attach them to your uniform inside or out. One style boots or two style depending on the climate.
Please stay with MOLLE SYSTEM for gear. Please get a new carrier for the freaking mask.

STEPHENS'

Response by Joey Damir made Jul 23 at 2017 10:38 AM

2017-07-23T10:38:04-04:00

blue dress pants. tan long sleeved button down shirt with tiy. and a sweatshirt.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 12:06 PM

2017-08-16T12:06:25-04:00

I miss my Deserts, former Marine, current Army NG.

Response by CPO Greg Frazho made Aug 17 at 2017 3:07 PM

2017-08-17T15:07:28-04:00

Ripstop woodlands. Only problem with them is you had to iron 'em! That aside, they were comfortable, utilitarian and looked good.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jun 17 at 2018 11:19 PM

2018-06-17T23:19:31-04:00

Digital tiger stripe..