The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) is set to launch the first-ever physical training uniform (PTU) specifically designed for the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) in December 2020. This marks a significant milestone for the USPHS Commissioned Corps, providing them with their own distinct PTU for the first time, drawing stylistic parallels with the U.S. Navy’s optional PTUs.
Paul Shields, NEXCOM Associate Director for the Uniform Program Management Office, highlighted the existing relationship between NEXCOM and the USPHS Commissioned Corps, stating, “NEXCOM has supported the USPHS Commissioned Corps for some time, and they are currently authorized to wear our (Navy) dinner dress uniforms, our service dress uniforms, and summer white uniforms.” He further explained the crucial gap this new garment addresses: “What they don’t have from a uniform perspective is a physical training uniform, and that is what we are working right now, to establish a USPHS PTU, which will include t-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, and hoodies, and eventually a fitness suit, similar to what the Navy uses. The USPHS will follow what the Navy uses when it comes to its uniforms.” This initiative underscores a move towards a more comprehensive uniform provision for the USPHS.
While the USPHS Commissioned Corps’ dress uniforms have often mirrored those of the Navy, a key differentiator has always been their unique emblem. This distinction is carefully maintained in the new physical training uniform.
Lindsay Vance Bean, NEXCOM Divisional Merchandise Manager of Uniforms, detailed the collaborative process: “USPHS requested our assistance in procuring a physical training uniform that included a high-performance shirt, high-performance short, fleece hoodie, and sweat pant.” Capitalizing on existing Navy programs, Bean added, “Luckily, we already had these components on the Navy side with the ‘Forged by the Sea’ program. They wanted to retain the design properties of ‘Forged by the Sea’ but with the addition of their unique logo.” This synergy allowed for an efficient development process. “We were able to send them samples and, working back and forth, the results were a physical training uniform for USPHS that met all of their requirements.”
The development process wasn’t without its technical considerations. Even with the design similarities to the Navy PTU, ensuring the durability of both the garments and the USPHS logo was paramount. Louise Caulfield, Group Leader for Uniforms and Certification Team at NEXCOM’s Navy Clothing and Textile Research Facility (NCTRF), elaborated on this rigorous testing phase. “As far as the logo went, my team developed the artwork and received USPHS approval. From there, we worked with our industry partners to make sure that their approved logo could be put on the fabric. We will be doing some laundering tests to make sure that the logo can withstand up to 50 wash cycles,” she stated. This commitment to quality ensures the PTU will meet the high standards expected of service uniforms.
Beyond technical aspects, the project navigated challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which presented hurdles in terms of both time and resource management. Bean acknowledged these difficulties, “Overall, we have been able to manage and mitigate any delays in pushing the project forward. COVID-19 has created issues from a staffing perspective with our vendors at some point, but overall, we have been able to maintain that entire timeline and push things forward.” Despite these global disruptions, the project remained on course.
The successful development and timely release of the Commissioned Corps Uniform PTU is attributed to effective teamwork and a streamlined process. Shields noted the rapid progress, “We started working on this project in May. When you look at how initial discussions went, defining the USPHS requirement, getting the design and logo right, and then getting the PTU into testing and production in October, it has only been about six months.” This quick turnaround highlights the dedication and efficiency of all involved.
Looking ahead, NEXCOM expresses optimism about future collaborations with the USPHS Commissioned Corps regarding uniform needs. Shields concluded, “The partnership that we have generated with the USPHS and the collaboration we’ve had will lend itself to future projects. So, if USPHS decides it has uniform needs in the future, we stand by ready to assist them.” This successful PTU project lays a strong foundation for continued cooperation.
Quick Facts
- The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) is set to introduce a physical training uniform (PTU) custom-made for the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) in December 2020.
- This PTU represents the inaugural official physical training uniform for the USPHS Commissioned Corps.
Contact
Kristine Sturkie
Navy Exchange Service Command
[email protected]
757-631-3648
