The Class A uniform is a cornerstone of the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) experience, embodying discipline, pride, and attention to detail. A crucial aspect of wearing the Class A uniform correctly is the precise placement of insignia. This guide will provide a detailed, step-by-step breakdown for accurately positioning each element on your JROTC Class A uniform, ensuring you present a sharp and regulation-compliant appearance. Correct insignia placement reflects not only personal standards but also upholds the traditions and values of JROTC.
Key Insignia and Their Placement on the JROTC Class A Uniform
To properly adorn your Class A uniform, understanding where each insignia goes is essential. Below is a breakdown of common insignia and their correct positions.
Name Tag Placement
The name tag is positioned on the right breast pocket flap. To center it vertically, ensure equal distance (“A” = “B”) between the top of the button and the top edge of the pocket, placing the name tag in the middle. Horizontally, the name tag’s center should be directly above the center of the pocket button.
Honor Unit/Honor Unit with Distinction (HU/HUD) Device
The Honor Unit (HU) or Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD) device is worn above the right pocket, signifying your unit’s achievement. Center this device 1/4 inch directly above the right pocket flap.
Academic Achievement Insignia
If you are authorized to wear the Academic Achievement Insignia, the placement is slightly adjusted. Position this insignia 1/8 inch above the right pocket, taking precedence over the HU/HUD device if both are worn.
Shield Placement
The shield is positioned above both the HUD/Academic Wreath. Place the shield 1/8 inch above the HU/HUD device or the Academic Achievement Insignia if worn.
Enlisted Rank Insignia
Enlisted rank insignia are worn on the shoulder loops of the Class A jacket. Center the insignia on the shoulder loop. The bottom of the insignia should be positioned 5/8 inch from the shoulder seam.
Officer Rank Insignia
Officer rank insignia are also placed on the shoulder loops. Center the officer insignia on the loops, ensuring equal distance from both edges of the loop. For ranks C/2LT, C/1LT, C/MAJ, and C/LTC, position the insignia 5/8 inch from the shoulder seam. Cadets holding the ranks of C/1LT and C/LTC should maintain a 1/4 inch space between pips or diamonds on their insignia.
Torches Placement
Torches are worn on the collar of the Class A jacket. Locate the notch in the collar as a reference point. Position the bottom of the torch disk 1 inch above this notch, centered on the collar so that the horizontal distances are equal. The bottom of the torch should be parallel to the inside edge of the collar.
Officer Brass Placement
Officer brass includes both the ROTC insignia and the torch, placed on the collar. Using the collar notch as the base reference, imagine a line bisecting the notch and running parallel to the collar edge. The ROTC insignia is placed 5/8 inch above the notch, with its centerline bisecting the notch. The torch is placed 5/8 inch below the notch, with its centerline also bisecting the imaginary parallel line.
Ribbons Placement
Ribbons are worn above the left breast pocket. The first row of ribbons is centered 1/8 inch above the top of the left pocket. Subsequent rows of ribbons are placed directly above the first row, maintaining a consistent and neat display.
Medals Placement
Medals are worn on the left pocket, positioned below the ribbons. Center medals on the wearer’s left pocket and place them 1/8 inch below the bottom seam of the pocket flap.
Arches Placement
Arches, often representing JROTC unit service, are placed above the right pocket. When wearing an odd number of arches (1, 3, or 5), the center arch is positioned so it is centered between the bottom of the pocket flap and the bottom of the pocket, ensuring equal distance from both. Additional arches are placed 1/8 inch above and below the center arch. Measure the 1/8 inch separation at the closest point between arches to account for varying arch radii.
Conclusion
Accurately placing insignia on your JROTC Class A uniform is a vital part of presenting yourself and your unit with pride and professionalism. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure every element is correctly positioned, reflecting your commitment to JROTC standards. Paying attention to these details demonstrates respect for the uniform, the program, and the values it represents.
