The Navy Working Uniform Type III (NWU Type III), often referred to as the Navy Camouflage Uniform, serves as a versatile and practical uniform for U.S. Navy personnel in various duty scenarios. It’s essential to understand when and where this uniform is authorized for wear to maintain professional standards and adherence to regulations.
This uniform is primarily designed as a working uniform. It is authorized for commuting to and from work and for routine tasks encountered throughout the workday. This includes necessary stops such as childcare facilities, gas stations, shopping off-base, banking, Department of Motor Vehicles, and dining establishments. It is important to note that the NWU Type III is not considered a liberty uniform and should not be worn in social settings or when business attire is more appropriate. Furthermore, the consumption of alcohol while wearing the NWU Type III off-base is prohibited. On-base alcohol consumption is permitted but is subject to the discretion of Regional Commanders.
Recruiters have specific permissions to wear the NWU Type III within the Continental United States (CONUS), Hawaii, and Guam. This authorization extends to locations like malls, schools, and typical recruiting areas, enhancing visibility and approachability in their outreach efforts.
Within the National Capital Region (NCR), the navy camouflage uniform is generally authorized for wear across all locations. However, there are specific exceptions, notably the National Mall area, encompassing Capitol Hill, Senate and House Staff offices, the White House, the Executive Office building, the Department of State, and all national monuments and memorials. Wear in these restricted zones is only permitted when explicitly authorized for a Joint Task Force National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) mission.
The Pentagon designates the NWU Type III as the uniform of the day. This regulation applies uniformly to all Navy personnel assigned to or visiting Navy units within the Pentagon Reservation. It also encompasses individuals conducting official business at the Pentagon, whether they are on temporary duty, attending briefings, making official visits, or carrying out administrative duties.
For commuting to and from the Pentagon, the NWU Type III is authorized when utilizing public transportation options such as metro buses, metro rail, rideshares, commuter vans, taxis, ferries, and slug lines outside the Pentagon premises. Its wear is also permitted in office environments within headquarters staffs located in the NCR, excluding specifically identified restricted areas. This broad authorization underscores the practicality and everyday applicability of the navy camouflage uniform for Navy personnel in their professional routines.
