An expert opinion

Airman, April, 2004 by Jackie Dean

First, it's important to understand the new utility uniform has only been approved for a six-month wear test, and any--or all--of the uniform is subject to change based on the results of the test.

The test began in February. This month, the Air Force uniform board will open an Internet site for people to provide feedback about the uniform. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. John Jumper will use that feedback, the feedback from the wear-test participants, and the durability and performance of the uniform to make a decision regarding its use.

In early 2002, General Jumper directed the uniform board to develop a new uniform that would fit better, be easier and less expensive to maintain and give the Air Force a distinctive look compared to the other services. After exhaustive research, he approved a wear test of the proposed utility uniform.

If one compares the proposed uniform with the battle dress uniform, it meets General Jumper's criteria very well. For example, while the BDU comes in four "general" sizes, the new uniform is sized more like civilian clothing so it will fit airmen better.

Also, the uniform is easy to care for because it has a permanent press treatment applied to it. The Marine Corps wears the same material, and they are very happy with its ease of care. You can throw this uniform in the wash, pull it out and it'll look like it was just pressed. No more ironing and no more starching. That will save time, money and Effort.

The uniform is certainly distinctive. A lot of people argue that it stands out In a deployed environment. However, officials point to the fact that only about 3 percent of today's airmen are in jobs that require camouflage protection. The rest typically work in an obvious environment, like alongside a large gray aircraft on a flight line, in an office or behind a fence line. Camouflage for them isn't a requirement.

Again, the important thing to remember is nothing's set in stone. The new uniform is in a test phase. If you have suggestions, concerns, questions or ideas, let us know. The Web site for comments about the test uniform will be available this month. Your input will determine whether this is the appropriate uniform for 21st century airmen.

Senior Master Sgt. Jackie Dean Chief, Air Force Uniform Board, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.