Military uniforms have always held a special allure, embodying the character and rich history of the services they represent. Within both the Navy itself and the wider public, there has long been a desire for visual resources that chronicle the evolution of the uniform in the United States Navy. To address this need, Captain James C. Tily, CEC, USN (Ret.) and Mr. H. Charles McBarron, two distinguished figures in this domain, collaborated to create a significant body of work.
This article highlights the text accompanying a series of color lithographs, and a previously published set, both developed in conjunction with this office by Captain Tily, a recognized authority on United States Navy uniforms. His definitive book, The Uniforms of the United States Navy, published in 1964, stands as a testament to his expertise. What began as a passionate interest during his active service has blossomed into a dedicated pursuit in his retirement.
Mr. McBarron, a leading name in military illustration, translated sketches, refined in collaboration with us, into compelling paintings that bring these texts to life. His masterful artwork not only captures the essence of the eras depicted in each painting, aligning with the uniforms of the time, but also serves as remarkably accurate representations of the uniforms themselves.
We also acknowledge the Company of Military Historians for their generous permission to reproduce seven of their plates in our initial publication.
For those interested in acquiring these prints, which offer a vivid journey through naval uniform history, they are available for purchase by the general public. Orders can be placed through:
Superintendent of Documents United States Government Printing Office Washington, D. C. 20402
Naval Ships and Stations can procure copies via the Navy’s Supply System.
It is our hope that these vibrant prints will not only captivate and educate but also inspire countless Americans to serve our nation with the same unwavering dedication and valor exemplified by generations of God-fearing individuals.
As Rear Admiral E. M. Eller, USN (Ret.), Director of Naval History (Op-09B9) and Curator for the Department of the Navy, eloquently stated:
May these colorful prints not only interest and instruct but also inspire millions of Americans to serve our nation with the same dedication and courage as Godfearing men have so nobly in every generation.
Reflecting on the significance of naval service, George W. Anderson, 16th Chief of Naval Operations, remarked:
We in the Navy have a blue suit waiting for anyone who can wear it. This suit is cut from the fabric of freedom, and it is tailored to the lean and form-fitting style of dedicated purpose set for us by our founding fathers. I don’t expect it ever to go out of fashion, but it can if not enough men and women are willing to wear it with pride and respect.
President Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States, further emphasized the crucial role of those in uniform:
The dedicated men serving in Navy Blue … safeguard the peace and freedom of the world and the future of the American way of life.
These words underscore the profound importance of the Uniform United States Navy personnel wear, symbolizing a commitment to freedom, peace, and the American way of life.
