The Army has officially authorized the wear of nameplates on the Army Green Service Uniform (AGSU), marking a subtle yet significant update to this iconic uniform. While the AGSU was approved for daily wear in late 2018, nameplates were initially not part of the authorized ensemble. This recent change addresses a key aspect of soldier identity and personal recognition within the ranks.
The newly approved nameplate for the AGSU features a distinguished dark brown base with taupe lettering, finished with a matte texture and a beveled edge. These nameplates will be readily available for purchase through authorized military uniform retailers. This update, though seemingly minor, carries considerable weight for soldiers and their leaders. The new specifications allow for the inclusion of accent marks and hyphens on nameplates, ensuring that unique names can be accurately pronounced and recognized – a vital element of respect and inclusivity within the Army.
Sergeant Major Ashleigh Sykes, Sergeant Major of Uniform Policy at the Office of U.S. Army Personnel (G-1), emphasized the importance of this change. “The Army authorized diacritics and hyphens on nameplates as a way for Soldiers to identify themselves,” she stated. “We should honor Soldiers’ identity on all Army uniforms, which is why we are excited to release the new nameplate.” This sentiment underscores the Army’s commitment to acknowledging and respecting the individual identities of its soldiers. It’s important to note that the current black-and-white nameplates used with the Army Service Uniform (ASU) are not authorized for wear with the AGSU.
While currently optional, wearing the AGSU nameplate will become mandatory by October 1, 2023. This requirement extends to the AGSU coat, long- and short-sleeve shirts, the Eisenhower jacket, and the Heritage 564 pullover sweater. Furthermore, nameplates will be a mandatory issue item at unit Central Issue Facilities. Soldiers are reminded that the AGSU uniform is intended to fully replace the ASU as the service uniform by October 1, 2027, offering ample time for acquisition and transition. For further details, Maj. Angel Tomko, Army G-1 Public Affairs Officer, can be contacted at [email protected].
