The Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) Uniform Class A is a symbol of pride, discipline, and adherence to standards. Wearing it correctly is paramount to upholding the values of the JROTC program. This guide provides clear, concise instructions on how to properly assemble and wear the JROTC Class A uniform, ensuring every cadet presents a sharp and respectable appearance. Accurate placement of each component, from the name tag to rank insignia, is crucial for achieving the crisp, professional look that the Class A uniform is intended to project.
Name Tag Placement on the JROTC Class A Uniform
The name tag is an essential identifier on the JROTC Class A uniform. For proper placement, it should be worn on the right breast pocket flap. Vertically, ensure the name tag is centered between the top of the pocket button and the top edge of the pocket. This means the distance above the button (distance “A”) should be equal to the distance below the pocket top (distance “B”). Horizontally, the name tag should be positioned directly above the center of the pocket button.
Honor Unit (HU) and Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD) Device
For cadets who have earned the Honor Unit or Honor Unit with Distinction award, the corresponding device is worn above the right pocket. Center the HU/HUD device 1/4 inch directly above the top of the right pocket.
In cases where the Academic Achievement Insignia is also worn, the HU/HUD device should be positioned slightly lower, at 1/8 inch above the right pocket to accommodate both awards neatly.
Shield Placement Above HU/HUD or Academic Wreath
The Shield insignia, if awarded, takes precedence and is placed above the HU/HUD device or the Academic Achievement Insignia. Position the Shield 1/8 inch above the HU/HUD device or academic wreath, ensuring it sits above any other awards in that area.
Enlisted Rank Insignia on Shoulder Loops
Enlisted cadets wear their rank insignia centered on the shoulder loops of the Class A jacket. The insignia should be positioned 5/8 inch up from the shoulder seam, ensuring it is clearly visible on the shoulder loop.
Officer Rank Insignia on Shoulder Loops
Officer cadets also wear their rank insignia on the shoulder loops of the Class A jacket, ensuring it is centered. For officers holding the ranks of C/2LT, C/1LT, C/MAJ, and C/LTC, place the insignia 5/8 inch from the shoulder seam.
For cadets holding the ranks of C/1LT and C/LTC, when placing multiple pips or diamonds, maintain a 1/4 inch space between each insignia for proper distinction.
Torches Placement on the JROTC Class A Uniform Collar
The JROTC torch insignia is worn on the collar of the Class A jacket. Locate the notch on the collar; this serves as the base reference point. The bottom of the torch disk should be placed 1 inch above this notch and centered on the collar, ensuring equal distances on both sides of the center point. The torch should be oriented parallel to the inside edge of the collar.
Officer Brass Insignia and Torch Placement
Officer brass insignia, including the ROTC insignia and the torch, are also placed relative to the collar notch. Imagine a reference line bisecting the notch and running parallel to the collar line. The ROTC insignia is worn 5/8 inch above the notch, with its centerline bisecting the notch. Conversely, the torch is placed 5/8 inch below the notch, with its centerline also bisecting the notch and parallel to the collar edge.
Ribbons Placement Above the Left Pocket
Ribbons are worn above the left pocket of the Class A uniform. The first row of ribbons should be centered 1/8 inch above the top of the left pocket. Subsequent rows of ribbons are placed directly above this base row, stacked neatly.
Medals Placement on the Left Pocket
Medals are also worn on the left pocket, positioned below the pocket seam. Center the medals on the wearer’s left pocket and place them 1/8 inch below the bottom seam of the pocket flap.
Arches Placement on the Pocket
Arches, representing various achievements, are worn on the pocket flap. When wearing an odd number of arches (1, 3, or 5), the center arch is positioned first, centered vertically between the bottom of the pocket flap and the bottom of the pocket, ensuring equal distances above and below. Additional arches are placed 1/8 inch above and below the center arch. Measure the 1/8 inch separation at the closest point between adjacent arches due to varying radii.
Wearing the JROTC Class A uniform correctly demonstrates attention to detail and respect for the traditions of the corps. This guide serves as a helpful reference for cadets to ensure their uniform is always inspection-ready.
