Would it be frowned upon to wear your ACUs to Arlington National Cemetery, just for tourism and not for a funeral?

2022-08-23T19:38:09-04:00

Would it be frowned upon to wear your ACUs to Arlington National Cemetery, the visit is just for tourism not a funeral or other event

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2022 9:34 PM

2022-08-23T21:34:06-04:00

PFC Private RallyPoint Member I have added topics to your post that will flag knowledgeable folks that can provide the correct response. AR 670-1, which covers the Wear and Appearance of Army Uniform and Insignia, is the reference procedure.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2022 9:41 PM

2022-08-23T21:41:10-04:00

Having served with 3rd US INF (TOG) from 02-06 I'll try and be of service. I have not been to ANC since 2016 when we laid my Father to rest. I hope to be back this Spring. If you are not on TDY and current on a leave status I would suggest you wear respectful civilian attire. Wearing a duty uniform inside ANC may get questions directed your way that you are not prepared to answer from the public and The Old Guard Soldiers performing their duties. Best not to draw attention to your service while attempting to render proper respect to those who've paid the ultimate price with theirs.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2022 9:53 PM

2022-08-23T21:53:46-04:00

If just there as a tourist - then no I wouldn't wear ACUs or any military uniform. It draws unnecessary attention. I didn't ever when I went to the National Mall or the time I went to Arlington, especially since I walked from the National Mall across the bridge to the cemetery and back (that wasn't smart).

I honestly do my best to avoid wearing my uniform whenever I can off post or even on post off duty. There's no need for it especially as a tourist.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Aug 24 at 2022 8:58 AM

2022-08-24T08:58:59-04:00

There are two trains of thought here. If you want to wear your uniform due so within compliance to the Uniform and Grooming standard. That covers the "can you" wear it. You wouldn't be the only servicemember wearing your uniform to the Cemetery. Next to the "do you need to wear it". It isn't required and nobody would judge you if you don't. If you are in DC as a tourist there are a few things to think about. Don't draw attention to yourself if you don't need to. It's not as dicey as DC once was but it is still a major city, tourist destination and tourists get targeted as easy targets. It's also more comfortable and easier to navigate the city wearing street clothes. Then there is the case of "should you". Just know that once you put on that uniform in that setting you are automatically associated with everyone in the Military who work ANC. It's your call. Unless you have a specific purpose behind it I would recommend opting for something comfortable. Tourist life in DC is hot, sweaty, and requires lots of walking.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Aug 24 at 2022 11:46 AM

2022-08-24T11:46:31-04:00

A couple of choices here realizing that Arlington is hallowed ground.
-Wear civilian clothes. Be a respectful tourist. I've done this.
-Wear the prescribed uniform for military members working in the District of Columbia. This may take some searching, but there are rules.