The U.S. Army has enhanced its support for deployed troops by expanding the Army Direct Ordering Program (ADO), making it simpler for soldiers to Order Army Uniforms and essential gear online. This program now includes flame-resistant Army Combat Uniforms (ACUs) and the improved physical fitness uniform, ensuring soldiers in critical locations have timely access to replacements and upgrades.
Initially launched with a limited scope in Iraq, the ADO program has rapidly grown to serve units across Iraq, Afghanistan, Qatar, Kuwait, and Djibouti. This expansion is a significant step forward in military logistics, providing deployed personnel with a user-friendly, web-based system to order army uniforms and over 50 other essential replacement items, ranging from durable boots to protective eyewear.
Flame-Resistant ACUs
Spearheaded by the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP) in partnership with the Kentucky Logistics Operation Center, the ADO program leverages a streamlined third-party logistics operation. This collaboration ensures efficient receiving, warehousing, and delivery of goods directly to soldiers in the field. Kenneth Gunn, program manager for the third-party logistics program, highlighted the program’s success, stating, “The ADO program has been an outstanding success and a valuable benefit to Soldiers deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility,” emphasizing the ease with which soldiers can now order army uniforms and other necessities through a simple online catalog.
The impact of the ADO program has been recognized with the 2006 Department of Defense Supply Chain Excellence Award, underscoring its commitment to improving logistics support for troops. Susanne McHale, supervisor of the battledress uniform integrated supplier team at DSCP, emphasized the dedication to equipping and protecting military personnel, stating, “With the coordination of the military services, DSCP strives to have the best equipped and well-protected military in the world.” This commitment is evident in the inclusion of the flame-resistant ACUs in the program.
The flame-resistant Army combat uniform, crucial for protection against flash burns from improvised explosive devices and other threats, was first introduced in 2007. Now, soldiers can easily order army uniforms of this type through the ADO program, ensuring they are equipped with this vital protective gear. Made from Defender M, a specialized flame-resistant cloth, these uniforms represent a significant advancement in soldier safety. Once an order army uniforms is placed, delivery is expected within three weeks or less, according to DSCP officials.
In addition to protective wear, the improved physical fitness uniform is also available through the ADO system. Scott Kromis, overseeing the accessories team at DSCP, explained the enhancements to the physical fitness gear. By enabling soldiers to order army uniforms for physical training through the program, they gain access to a modernized ensemble featuring a long-sleeve T-shirt, a contemporary workout jacket, and pants crafted from high-performance, weather-resistant, and breathable fabrics. These improvements, including adjustable vents, reflective stripes, and reinforced areas, ensure both comfort and safety during physical activities.
The increased demand for the APFT uniform and ACUs, coupled with their inclusion in the ADO program, presented initial procurement challenges. However, proactive collaboration between the Clothing and Textiles supply chain, customers, and vendors, including the addition of new suppliers and regular communication, effectively addressed these challenges, ensuring a consistent and adequate supply. The collaborative effort of organizations like the Department of the Army, Army Central Command, Army Clothing and Services Office, Kentucky Logistics Operation Center, Advantech, and the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, made the expansion of the ADO program and the ability to order army uniforms online a reality, further supporting the needs of deployed U.S. Army personnel.
