Navy Commissioned Officer Uniform Guide

The United States Navy uniform is a symbol of pride and professionalism for commissioned officers. Understanding the proper wear and care of the uniform is essential for maintaining the high standards of the Navy. In this article, we will delve into the world of Navy commissioned officer uniforms, exploring the various components, regulations, and guidelines for wear.

Components of the Navy Commissioned Officer Uniform

The Navy commissioned officer uniform consists of several components, each with its own specific regulations and guidelines.

Khaki Uniform

The khaki uniform is the most common uniform worn by Navy commissioned officers. It consists of a khaki shirt and trousers, with a white shirt and black tie for formal occasions.

• Khaki shirt: The khaki shirt is a short-sleeved, button-front shirt with two breast pockets. It is made of a cotton-polyester blend fabric and features a Navy-embroidered logo on the left sleeve.
• Khaki trousers: The khaki trousers are straight-legged, with two side pockets and a belt loop at the waist. They are made of the same fabric as the shirt.
• White shirt: The white shirt is a long-sleeved, button-front shirt with a wingtip collar. It is worn with the khaki trousers for formal occasions.
• Black tie: The black tie is a four-in-hand tie made of silk or wool. It is worn with the white shirt for formal occasions.

Navy Service Uniform (NSU)

The Navy Service Uniform (NSU) is a uniform worn by Navy commissioned officers for formal occasions, such as ceremonies and inspections.

• Navy blue coat: The Navy blue coat is a double-breasted, peak-lapel coat with two rows of buttons. It features a Navy-embroidered logo on the left sleeve.
• White shirt: The white shirt is a long-sleeved, button-front shirt with a wingtip collar.
• Black trousers: The black trousers are straight-legged, with two side pockets and a belt loop at the waist.

Regulations and Guidelines for Wear

The Navy has strict regulations and guidelines for the wear of commissioned officer uniforms. These guidelines cover everything from the proper way to wear the uniform to the maintenance and care of the uniform.

Proper Wear of the Uniform

The uniform should be worn with pride and professionalism. Here are some general guidelines for the proper wear of the uniform:

• The uniform should be clean and pressed at all times.
• The shirt should be tucked into the trousers, with the belt loop at the waist.
• The tie should be worn with the white shirt, with the four-in-hand tie knot centered.
• The coat should be worn with the white shirt and black trousers.

Maintenance and Care of the Uniform

Proper maintenance and care of the uniform are essential for extending its lifespan. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for the uniform:

• The uniform should be dry cleaned regularly to prevent stains and damage.
• The uniform should be pressed regularly to maintain its shape and appearance.
• The uniform should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage and wear.

Occasions for Wear

The Navy commissioned officer uniform is worn on various occasions, ranging from formal ceremonies to everyday duty.

Formal Occasions

The Navy Service Uniform (NSU) is worn on formal occasions, such as ceremonies and inspections.

• Ceremonies: The NSU is worn on formal ceremonies, such as ship commissionings and decommissionings.
• Inspections: The NSU is worn on formal inspections, such as command inspections.

Everyday Duty

The khaki uniform is worn on everyday duty, such as office work and shipboard duties.

• Office work: The khaki uniform is worn on office work, such as administrative duties.
• Shipboard duties: The khaki uniform is worn on shipboard duties, such as bridge watch and deck duties.

Navy Commissioned Officer Uniform Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to the Navy commissioned officer uniform. Whether you're a seasoned officer or just starting your career, understanding the proper wear and care of the uniform is essential for maintaining the high standards of the Navy.