Major uniform changes implemented

[cato2]

Major uniform changes implemented

By Lance Cpl. Patrick Fleischman


MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — Marines can expect some new changes to the summer and winter uniform regulations and tighter restrictions when it comes to the use of the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform off base.

A Marine Corps Administrative Message scheduled for release this week modifies the current Marine Corps Order P1020.34G governing Marine Corps Uniform Regulations.

"Our Corps has been in a transition phase with regard to our utility uniforms. That period is now ended," said the Commandant of the Marine Corps General James T. Conway in the message.


Of particular significance is the decision to make the desert MCCUU, with sleeves rolled up, the summer season uniform and to make the woodlandMCCUU, with sleeves down, the winter season uniform.

During these seasons, the message says, all Marines will wear the prescribed uniform exclusively, with the exception of command-authorized uniforms for field and tactical environments, said Mary Boyt, program manager or the Marine Corps Uniform Board, Marine Corps System Command.

"The intent of this ALMAR is to create a standard for wear of the MCCUU for all Marines," said Conway in the message. "However, it is recognized that uniform policies at certain joint headquarters, and climactic conditions at some of our bases or stations, may lead to requests for waiver to policy."

In the message Conway also clarifies the new off-base use of the MCCUU.
Addressing both active and reserve forces, he emphasizes that the MCCUU is a field uniform and is not appropriate for wear in a civilian environment.

Although Marines will still be authorized to commute to work in their MCCUUs, they are not permitted to exit their vehicle at any time while enroute to base with the exception of bonafide emergencies, such as a medical reason, vehicle breakdown or a vehicle accident.

Marines are also forbidden to visit local military-affiliated establishments off base such as the USO, Navy or Marine Federal Credit Union and day care while in their field uniforms, said Boyt.

Drive-through establishments such as ATMs, fast food restaurants or dry cleaners are authorized as long as Marines do not leave their vehicle, said Boyt.

Conversely, under the new rules Marines are no longer authorized to wear their combat uniforms at official or unofficial functions and conferences held off government installations and facilities without explicit command authorization, said Boyt.

The Commandant reiterated the Marine Corps' penchant for excellence when it comes to uniform wear: "As Marines, our uniforms and military appearance are an important part of our identity and have traditionally marked us as the nation's most distinctive.

http://www.lejeune.usmc.mil/mcb/topStoryuniform.asp