The U.S. Navy is dedicated to supporting its sailors through all stages of their service, including pregnancy. Recognizing the unique uniform needs of expectant mothers, the Navy Uniform Matters Office (UMO) and the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) have launched the Maternity Uniform Pilot Program (MPP). This initiative, detailed in NAVADMIN 284/21, provides eligible pregnant sailors with maternity uniforms at no cost, ensuring comfort and professionalism throughout their pregnancy. Participation in this program is voluntary and extends until September 30, 2026, requiring command endorsement.
Who is Eligible for the Navy Maternity Uniform Program?
The MPP is available to both officers and enlisted personnel, encompassing active duty and reserve sailors stationed in both CONUS and OCONUS commands. Selection for participation is based on a first-come, first-served approach, provided all eligibility criteria are fulfilled. Upon acceptance into the program, participants can select one of four maternity sea bag options. These options are designed to align with the sailor’s daily duties and the uniform requirements specified by their command.
The maternity working uniforms provided through the MPP are comprehensive, including sewn-on embroidered name tapes, service tapes, and qualification insignias. For enlisted sailors in grades E1-E6, the maternity dress uniforms come complete with sewn-on rank insignias and neck tabs. Importantly, hemming and uniform shipment are provided free of charge, further easing the process for participating sailors.
Applying for the Maternity Uniform Pilot Program: A Step-by-Step Guide
Sailors who are pregnant and wish to enroll in the Navy’s MPP should follow this detailed application process:
-
Download and Prepare Necessary Documents:
-
Begin by downloading the MPP Application Instruction Guide, the Maternity Pilot Program Application, and the Maternity Uniform Measurement Sheet.
-
Print the Maternity Uniform Measurement Sheet and visit your nearest Navy Exchange Uniform Shop to have your body measurements taken and documented. For those located far from a uniform center, a “How to Measure video” is available for self-measurement, or you can seek guidance from commercial tailors. Ensure all required information is accurately recorded on the form.
-
Utilize the MPP Application Instruction Guide to complete the Maternity Pilot Program Application. Once filled out, route the application and measurement sheet through your chain of command, starting with your immediate supervisor, department head, and commanding officer/chief of staff, or equivalent.
-
-
Command Verification and Endorsement:
- Your chain of command will verify your pregnancy status and confirm your eligibility for MPP participation. Key eligibility criteria include having an End of Active Obligated Service (EAOS) date at least 12 months beyond the application date and not having received a maternity clothing allowance during the current pregnancy. Upon confirming eligibility, your commanding officer, chief of staff, or equivalent will endorse your Maternity Pilot Program Application as per the MPP Application Instruction Guide.
-
Submit Your Application:
-
After completing the application and measurement sheets, save both as PDF documents using the following naming conventions:
- Rank Last name, First name MPP SRC Application
- Rank Last name, First name MPP Measurement Sheet
-
-
Email Your Documents:
- Email both PDF documents to [email protected] with the subject line: Rank Last Name, First Name MPP Application.
-
UMO Screening and GBT Processing:
- The Uniform Matters Office (UMO) will review your submission to ensure MPP participation criteria are met. This includes verifying your EAOS date and confirming that no maternity allowance has been allocated for the current pregnancy. Once verified, UMO will forward your documents to the Government Business Team (GBT) for processing.
-
Uniform Order and Delivery:
- Upon receiving your application and measurement forms, the GBT will contact you to confirm the accuracy of your information before ordering your maternity uniform components. Your MPP uniforms will be shipped to the address you provided on your application. You will receive tracking numbers to monitor the delivery status, although delivery times may vary depending on the shipping method. Expect to receive your uniforms tailored and ready to wear.
-
Uniform Return:
- All uniform items must be returned within 9 to 12 months of initial receipt using a pre-paid shipping label provided by the GBT.
-ver19.pdf?ver=h-0WMlae7aY4QoULQiOkJA%3d%3d)
This program underscores the Navy’s commitment to supporting its personnel and ensuring that pregnant sailors have the appropriate navy maternity uniforms to maintain their professional appearance and comfort throughout their service. By providing maternity navy uniforms at no cost and streamlining the application process, the Navy MPP significantly aids expectant mothers in focusing on their health and service duties.
