The Jrotc Class A Uniform is a symbol of pride, honor, and discipline. Wearing it correctly is paramount to upholding the standards of the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the proper placement of various components on the JROTC Class A uniform, ensuring cadets present a sharp and regulation-compliant appearance. Understanding the precise positioning of each element, from the name tag to rank insignia, is crucial for every cadet. This article will serve as your definitive resource for mastering the nuances of the jrotc class a uniform.
Name Tag Placement
The name tag is an essential identifier and is worn on the right breast pocket flap of the Class A jacket. Correct placement ensures it is both visible and neatly integrated with the uniform.
Vertical Positioning: To center the name tag vertically, imagine distances “A” and “B” as depicted in the image below. Distance “A” is the space between the top of the button and the top edge of the pocket. Distance “B” is the space between the bottom of the name tag and the top edge of the pocket. The name tag should be positioned so that distance “A” equals distance “B”, effectively centering it on the pocket flap.
Horizontal Positioning: Horizontally, the name tag’s center should be directly above the center of the pocket button. This ensures a balanced and professional look.
Honor Unit/Honor Unit with Distinction (HU/HUD) Device
The Honor Unit or Honor Unit with Distinction (HU/HUD) device signifies a unit’s achievement and is worn with pride. It is positioned above the right pocket, adding to the accolades displayed on the Class A uniform.
The HU/HUD device is centered 1/4 inch directly above the right pocket flap. This placement is standard unless the Academic Achievement Insignia is also worn.
In cases where the Academic Achievement Insignia is worn, the HU/HUD device (or the Academic Achievement Insignia itself if worn alone) should be placed 1/8 inch above the right pocket flap. This adjustment ensures proper spacing and prevents overcrowding of devices in this area.
Shield Placement
The Shield, often representing a specific JROTC program or unit affiliation, is placed above other devices on the right pocket area, further distinguishing the cadet’s achievements and affiliations.
The Shield is positioned 1/8 inch above the HU/HUD device or the Academic Achievement Insignia (wreath). This layering ensures that each element is visible and contributes to the overall visual representation of the cadet’s honors.
Enlisted Rank Insignia
Enlisted rank insignia denotes the cadet’s rank and position within the JROTC unit. Correct placement on the shoulder loops is essential for clear identification of enlisted cadets.
Enlisted rank insignia is centered on the shoulder loops of the Class A jacket.
The insignia is further positioned 5/8 inch up the shoulder loop from the shoulder seam. This measurement ensures consistent and regulation placement across all enlisted ranks.
Officer Rank Insignia
Officer rank insignia distinguishes cadet officers and their respective positions of leadership. Proper placement on the shoulder loops mirrors the professional standards of commissioned officers.
All officer rank insignia is centered on the shoulder loops of the Class A jacket, ensuring equal distance from both edges of the loop, indicated as distance “A” = distance “B” in the image.
For officer ranks of C/2LT, C/1LT, C/MAJ, and C/LTC, the insignia is placed 5/8 inch from the shoulder seam, similar to enlisted ranks, maintaining a consistent standard for insignia placement.
Cadets holding the ranks of C/1LT and C/LTC will also maintain a 1/4 inch space between their pips or diamonds, ensuring clear distinction between rank insignia elements.
Torches (ROTC Insignia)
The torches, symbolizing leadership and knowledge, are a key component of the ROTC insignia worn on the collar of the Class A jacket.
The bottom of the torch disk is placed 1 inch above the notch of the collar (point “A” in the image). It is also centered on the collar so that distance “B” equals distance “C”, ensuring symmetry.
Furthermore, the bottom of the torch is oriented parallel to the inside edge of the collar, maintaining a consistent and aligned appearance.
Officer Brass (ROTC Insignia and Torch)
Officer brass refers to the combination of ROTC insignia and torches worn by officers on the collar. Precise placement, using the collar notch as a reference, is critical for a sharp look.
First, locate the notch on the collar. This serves as the primary reference point for all officer brass placement. Visualize a reference line bisecting the notch and running parallel to the collar’s edge.
Measure 5/8 inch upwards from the notch. Officers wear the ROTC insignia with its centerline bisecting the notch, positioned at this 5/8 inch mark. Officers also wear the Torch, placed 5/8 inch below the notch.
The visualized reference line parallel to the collar edge should also bisect the centerline of the torch, ensuring vertical alignment.
Ribbons Placement
Ribbons represent awards and achievements and are worn above the left pocket. Proper placement and arrangement of ribbons demonstrate attention to detail and honor earned recognitions.
The first row of ribbons is centered 1/8 inch above the left pocket flap. This serves as the baseline for all subsequent ribbon rows.
Subsequent rows of ribbons are placed directly above this base row, stacked neatly and consistently to display all earned awards.
Medals Placement
Medals, representing significant achievements, are worn on the left pocket, below the ribbons. Their placement complements the ribbons and further showcases cadet accomplishments.
Medals are worn centered on the wearer’s left pocket and positioned 1/8 inch below the top seam of the pocket flap. This placement ensures medals are prominently displayed while maintaining a balanced uniform appearance.
Arches Placement
Arches, often representing participation in specific JROTC activities or programs, are worn on the left pocket flap. Their arrangement depends on the number worn, with specific guidelines for odd numbers of arches.
When a cadet wears an odd number of arches (1, 3, or 5), the central arch is positioned first. This central arch is placed so that it is centered vertically between the bottom of the pocket flap and the bottom of the pocket, ensuring distance “A” equals distance “B”.
Subsequent arches are placed 1/8 inch above and below (respectively) the center arch. Due to varying arch radii, measure the 1/8 inch separation from the point where two arches are closest to ensure uniform spacing.
By adhering to these guidelines, cadets can ensure their jrotc class a uniform is worn with precision and pride, reflecting the high standards of the JROTC program. Correct uniform wear demonstrates attention to detail, respect for tradition, and commitment to excellence.
