(Navy Times) Editorial: Ease NWU restriction

[unhappycamper]

Ease NWU restriction

The Navy sure is proud of its new blue-and-gray camouflage working uniform. So proud, in fact, that you can’t be seen wearing it off base.

According to guidance for the new uniform, released Dec. 2, sailors will be allowed to wear the uniform while driving to and from work, but won’t be allowed to get out of their cars unless it’s for a road or medical emergency.

~snip~

When the Navy began looking at the NWU several years ago, sailors had hoped the policy would be more liberal. They will be disappointed. the reasons given for maintaining the restrictions are less than satisfying. Officials say it’s a “working uniform,” and traditionally, working uniforms aren’t worn off base.

But that still doesn’t explain why you can’t wear it. Do Navy leaders think the camouflage doesn’t represent the Navy well to the public? Are they worried civilians will be intimidated by warlike uniforms? Do they think it makes sailors look unprofessional?

~snip~

And not just for convenience. A squared-away sailor in cammies is a walking recruiting poster. He’s a reminder to civilians that sailors are part of their community, and they can share in the pride of service that the uniform represents.


Rest of article at: http://www.navytimes.com/community/opinion/navy_editorial_nwu_121508/%2e