Uniform opinions - Air Mail - Letter to the Editor

Airman, Feb, 2004

In "Air Mail" [November 2003], we asked our readers to give us their opinions on the proposed utility uniform, which begins testing this month. Of the 32 responses we received, 50 percent wanted to keep the current utility uniform, 27 percent liked the proposed uniform, and 23 percent wanted a new uniform, but not the blue tiger stripe version.

While I certainly understand some of the financial and wearability issues for the proposed utility uniform, I don't feel it's the right solution. Unless we're fighting in Kentucky bluegrass, how is the new uniform going to be harder to see in broad daylight? We currently have uniform options that blend in whether you're in the jungles of South America or the deserts of the Middle East. Blue and grey stand out in these environments. Why don't we simply move to the Marines' digitized pattern? That uniform has already gone through a plethora of wear testing and proved its value in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Let's use our resources wisely and benchmark a battle-proven uniform that isn't the butt of other servicemen's jokes.

Staff Sgt. Adam Stump

Robins Air Force Base, Ga.

I can appreciate and understand the testing phase of this uniform, just from reading several articles, the uniform itself seems quite appropriate through materials and usefulness. Unfortunately, the colors seemingly serve no purpose other than appearance alone. If an easier to care for uniform is wanted, and it is, then keep the standard pattern but use new material and make them cheaper. The cost of uniforms is outrageous.

The Air Force should consider using the Army's aircrew battle dress uniform. Its use and looks are unmatched by any. Most importantly, the uniform keeps the current woodland camouflage pattern and tactical functionality.

I'd rather have the old fatigue uniform than wear the proposed tiger stripes. I've been in the Air Force for almost 16 years, and I'd rather retire than be seen wearing the proposed uniform.

1st Lt. Brian Lawson

Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas

I think it's a smart idea to change to a new design on the utility uniform. Most of the features will greatly increase functionality, such as wash and wear and boots that don't require polishing. However, the colors have to go. They look too much like the urban camouflage kids wear. No patches on the uniform is also a bad idea. Patches mean a for to unit personnel. If the fliers aren't going to pull their unit patches off the flight suit, then we should be able to wear unit patches on our uniforms.

Maj. Derrick Fitzgerald

Savannah, Ga.

I have to admit when I saw the pictures I didn't like the look of the proposed uniform. However, examples were brought for us to see, and I was very surprised to find I liked the way they look. Someone wearing our current battle dress uniform stood next to an airman modeling the proposed uniform. The current uniform looked sloppy next to the proposed one. I should've reserved judgment until after I saw the proposed uniform.

Staff Sgt. Michelle Woody

Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.

I'm definitely for the new uniform. We are a separate and distinct force. That was proven in 1947 under the National Security Act. I think we need to also adopt the uniform the Air Force Honor Guard wears as our dress uniform. We'd top the Marines.

Master Sgt. William Powell

Jackson International Airport, Miss.

I fail to understand why the Air Force constantly feels it needs to change uniforms. The uniform we have is functional and already in the supply system. Why are we wasting money and time for the sake of change? This appears to be another attempt by someone to leave a mark on the Air Force.

Senior Master Sgt. Joe Bomar

Cheyenne Municipal Airport, Wyo.

The new utility uniform looks like something our European counterparts would wear, not U.S. service members. I don't have a problem with the uniform overall, but I really wish they'd halt the initiative to have "U.S. Air Force" dispersed throughout the uniform. That idea is tacky, and I'd like to know why it was even considered. If the decision makers want it on the uniform, then place the emblem on the left breast pocket where the Marines have their globe and anchor.

Senior Master Sgt. Quintin Glover

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio

As a member of the elite uniformed military in the world, I feel the new design is just that: designer. We--all U.S. armed forces--area military integrating more every day as our numbers become increasingly smaller. Our weapons systems and operational tactics need to work together. All the services need to work together to manage resources better. One type of uniform would save money and provide the utility for war. Distinctive dress uniforms are acceptable because of the heritage they represent and preserve. If a new utility uniform is needed today, all services should agree on one design and material. The U.S. armed forces don't need a "them and us" mentality.

Lee Trickett

via e-mail