The U.S. Coast Guard has announced the resumption of near-full uniform distribution after overcoming pandemic-related supply chain disruptions. For several months, Coast Guard members faced challenges in procuring necessary and required uniform items as the Uniform Distribution Center (UDC) prioritized outfitting recruits, cadets, and officer candidates. This prioritization sometimes resulted in partial seabags and certain uniform items being designated for recruit-issue only.
However, the situation has improved significantly. As of October 1, 2020, the UDC and its commercial suppliers have returned to full operational capacity. This positive development has enabled the UDC to resume issuing complete seabags to all new recruits and expand uniform distribution to the broader Coast Guard fleet.
Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) Availability Update
Good news for Coast Guard personnel: most sizes of the Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) are now available for purchase by fleet members. While small regular sizes remain limited and are still designated as recruit-only-issue, the overall availability has greatly improved. It’s important to note that manufacturing supply chains are still recovering and operating at a reduced capacity. The UDC is committed to providing uniforms to all Coast Guard members and partners, but occasional limitations on specific items, sizes, or types may still occur, with priority given to new accessions.
For those looking to purchase uniform items, the SHOPCGX.com website and Coast Guard Exchange outlets are your points of access. Given the ongoing recovery of production rates and inventory levels, Coast Guard leadership requests that personnel limit purchases to essential uniform items at this time.
Progress on the New Coast Guard Utility (CG-U) Uniform
The development of the new Coast Guard Utility (CG-U) uniform is progressing as planned, with fleet-wide availability still anticipated in fiscal year 2022. The Coast Guard Design Technical Office (CDTO) is collaborating closely with Navy research laboratories to ensure the CG-U uniform specifications align with and are suitable for both services’ new uniform initiatives.
A significant 120-day evaluation period has concluded, involving key Coast Guard leaders and operational units. This evaluation focused on assessing the material’s feel and performance during various Coast Guard missions and work environments. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. The CG-U uniform is reported to be lighter than the current ODU, offering enhanced breathability and improved durability in demanding operational settings. The CDTO is currently analyzing the collected test data and feedback to finalize the material acceptance. Upon approval, the CG-U Light (CG-U-L) version will be produced as an optional uniform for the entire fleet. It is important to note that the CG-U-L uniform will not be issued at initial accession points.
Discussions are still underway to finalize details regarding specifications, colors, and sizes for the CG-U. Currently, two shoulder patch options are being considered: the traditional Coast Guard blue and white and a more subdued blue and graphite variant. Further updates on the CG-U uniform will be released as more information becomes available in future publications.
Stay tuned for more uniform updates in upcoming articles. For any questions, please reach out to Mr. Lee Plowden, CG-44 Logistics Program Manager, at (202) 475-5696 or via email at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can contact Mr. Hayes Davis at the Uniform Program Office at (202) 795-6656 or [email protected].
Resource: Military Uniform Program Update ALCOAST 450/20 https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCG/bulletins/2b100e3
