Marine Uniform Regulations and Updates

The mission of the Marine Corps uniform policy is to ensure that every Marine has access to practical, high-quality, and cost-effective clothing within supply and budget limitations. This commitment aims to maintain the functional, traditional, and distinctive uniforms that are a hallmark of the Marine Corps.

Key Publications for Marine Uniform Guidance

Staying informed about the latest uniform regulations is crucial for all Marines. Several official publications provide comprehensive guidance:

• Draft MCO 1020.34H Marine Corps Uniform Regulations: This is the most current version of the Marine Corps Uniform Regulations. It incorporates all “G” series changes and highlights proposed “H” series changes in bold blue text. These changes are effective immediately, stemming from decisions made by MARADMIN/ALMAR/PMCUB or CMC memoranda. While figures for chapters 2 and 3 are being updated, the “G” version can be consulted for figures, though it’s important to note that those illustrations date back to the 1980s and may not reflect current uniform and accessory updates.
• MCO P1020.34G (Ch 1-5) Marine Corps Uniform Regulations (Official version): While this is the official published version, it’s recommended to prioritize the draft version (MCO 1020.34H) for the most up-to-date information due to numerous changes since its initial release.
• MCO P10120.28G Individual Clothing Regulations (ICR): This regulation details the policies regarding individual Marine clothing items.
• MCBUL 10120 CURRENT FY Individual Clothing Allowances: This document, updated annually, outlines the current fiscal year’s individual clothing allowances. It can be found on the Marine Corps publications website by searching for “MCBul 10120.”

Recent Marine Uniform Board Decisions and Updates

The Marine Corps Uniform Board regularly convenes to discuss and decide on uniform policy adjustments. Here are some key outcomes from recent boards:

• Uniform Board 214: Recommendations to change enlisted rank insignia on the woodland MARPAT combat utility uniform to brushed brass and mandate the Sam Browne belt for officers in blue dress and service “A” uniforms were not approved. A proposal to adjust the seasonal uniform synchronization date to October and April is under further review.
• Uniform Board 215: The wear of twist and lock hairstyles for female Marines was approved, in accordance with Uniform Regulations (MCO 1020.34H). Further modifications to female hairstyle regulations were also approved.
• KIA Bracelets: Also known as “Memorial Bracelets,” KIA bracelets, along with POW/MIA bracelets, are authorized for wear on all Marine Corps uniforms, as per ALMAR 043/11. Only one bracelet may be worn at a time, in black or silver.
• Dress Blue-White Uniform for Reserve SNCOs: MARADMIN 471/12 specifies that Reserve Staff Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) in a drilling status with at least six months remaining on their contract are eligible for a one-time payment to purchase white trousers (males) or white slacks and a white skirt (females), starting September 2012. Payments are automatic.
• Amplification of Marine Corps Tattoo Policy: MARADMIN 029/10 issued updated tattoo policy guidelines, impacting officer recruiting and documentation. Marines considering tattoos should review this MARADMIN.
• Synchronized Seasonal Uniform Change Over: ALMAR 007/08 dictates that the Marine Corps transitions between summer and winter uniforms in garrison, synchronized with daylight saving time. Summer uniforms are adopted the duty day after spring daylight saving, and winter uniforms the duty day after fall daylight saving. Pregnant Marines may have exceptions based on delivery dates close to the changeover.
• Uniform Board 213: Decisions from Uniform Board 213, held on November 6, 2013, are detailed in MARADMIN 658/13 and will be incorporated into MCO P1020.34G.
• Running Suit Wear Guidance: The Marine Corps running suit is not designed to be form-fitting. Wear regulations are outlined in ALMAR 019/08 and MCO P1020.34G. The complimentary issue period has ended, and enlisted Marines now use their clothing allowance for purchases. Guidance clarifies that only the running suit jacket and sweatshirt can be worn as outer garments for non-PT leave and liberty. The full running suit or components can be worn with PT ensemble items for PT leave and liberty only. The olive green sweat suit should not be mixed with running suit components. Commander discretion applies to reflective belt wear with the running suit. Commercial PT clothing is allowed for personal PT, but the running suit jacket is prohibited with the utility uniform. The green undershirt and general purpose trunks are not authorized for non-PT leave and liberty.
• Marine Corps Birthday Ball Uniform Standardization for Officers and SNCOs: ALMAR 042/11 standardized the Marine Corps Birthday Ball uniform for officers and SNCOs to be the dress blue uniform (with blue trousers/skirt/slacks) or the evening dress uniform. This policy excludes Sergeants and below.
• Placement of Male Service Coat and Dress Blue Coat Belt Keepers: A CMC decision on August 2, 2010, standardized the placement of belt keepers on the male service coat and male officer dress blue coat. Graphics are in paragraph 3002.2 of draft 1020.34H.
• Desert MARPAT MCCUU Sleeve Rolling Guidance: PMCUB memo 1020 (March 12, 2014) details MCCUU sleeve rolling guidelines (para 3038.3 of the MCUR). During summer, desert MARPAT coat sleeves are rolled inside out, snug to the arm, about three inches wide, ending slightly above to halfway between the shoulder top and elbow top. Commanders may allow sleeves down in combat/field environments. Woodland MARPAT sleeves are worn down in winter. Trousers are bloused with combat boots. Helmets with MARPAT covers may be prescribed for utility uniform parades/ceremonies. MARADMIN 078/14 provides further details.
• Uniform of the Day Policy for the National Capital Region: ALMAR 54/06 outlines the uniform policy for the Washington Metro Area, applicable to all visitors and Marines permanently assigned to the region.
• Ordering the 8th&I Blue Overcoat: Neptune Garment Company is accepting orders for the 8th&I blue overcoat (1-800-320-3980 or [email protected]). Units must fund these ceremonial overcoats themselves.
• Wear of Organizational Gear (Fleece): Organizational clothing, like fleece items, is for temporary duty use per commander’s guidance (MCO P1020.34G Chapter 7). Fleece items are not outer garments on forward operating bases or in garrison. Organizationally issued fleece jackets are worn under the All Purpose Environmental Clothing System (APECS) parka. Pullover fleece is worn under the MCCUU jacket; full-zip fleece is a liner between the Gortex and MCCUU jacket, not as an outer garment.
• Hands in Pockets Policy: In garrison, placing hands in pockets is restricted to retrieving items. Field environments allow for more judgment-based application of this policy.
• Rugged All-Terrain Boots (RAT Boots): RAT Boots, also known as Afghanistan boots, are authorized in garrison and will replace Marine Corps Combat Boots (MCCBs). Fielding details are forthcoming, starting at Depots in early 2014. Both hot and temperate weather RAT boots became mandatory on October 1, 2016, rendering MCCBs obsolete.
• Uniform Board Phone Numbers: The Marine Corps Uniform Board staff phone numbers are 703-432-3573/3667.

Current and Recent Uniform Board Initiatives

• Uniform Board No. 215: MARADMIN __/15 published, with video resources on female hairstyle regulation changes available.
• Uniform Board No. 214: MARADMIN __/15 published.
• Uniform Board No. 213: MARADMIN 658/13 published.

Additional Resources

• Civilian Clothing Replacement Allowance Rates (CCRA): FY15 rate is $335.40. Historical rates from FY01 to FY14 are also provided for reference.
• View All Uniform Plates: Only plate XIV (Combat Utility Uniform) is currently in print (PCN 100-103-622-00). Other uniform plates are out of circulation unless reprinted by the Historical Division.

Staying informed about these regulations and updates ensures all Marines maintain the highest standards of uniform appearance and compliance. Refer to official Marine Corps publications and MARADMINs for the most accurate and detailed information on Marine Uniforms.