The U.S. Navy has updated its policy regarding the wear of the Navy Working Uniform (NWU) Type III within the National Capital Region (NCR). This announcement, officially released as NAVADMIN 197/23, supersedes previous guidance and aligns with current Naval District Washington regulations, expanding the locations where the NWU Type III can be optionally worn. This update aims to provide clearer guidelines and greater flexibility for Navy personnel serving in and around Washington D.C.
Effective immediately, Navy personnel are authorized to wear the NWU Type III at most locations throughout the NCR. This expanded authorization includes commuting to and from work using various modes of transportation such as personal vehicles, public transport (metro, bus, rail, taxis, ferries, and ride-shares), and slug lines outside the Pentagon. Furthermore, the NWU Type III is now permitted in office environments for headquarters staff within the NCR, unless specific directives state otherwise. This change reflects a broader allowance for the practical and comfortable NWU Type III uniform in daily routines within the NCR.
However, certain restrictions remain in place. The NWU Type III is still prohibited in the National Mall area. This restricted zone encompasses Capitol Hill, Senate and House Staff offices, the White House and Executive Office buildings, the Department of State, and all national monuments and memorials. Exceptions are made only for personnel specifically authorized for a Joint Task Force National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) mission within these areas. At the Pentagon, while the NWU Type III is authorized as the alternate uniform of the day, it is not permitted on Fridays.
It is important to note that this expanded authorization specifically applies to the NWU Type III and does not include flight suits. Flight suits remain restricted in the NCR and are only authorized for wear by personnel on actual flight duty status for that particular day. This policy clarification ensures that while the NWU Type III offers greater wearability in the NCR, professional uniform standards are maintained in ceremonial and specific duty contexts.
This updated Ncr Uniform policy is effective immediately and will be formally incorporated into the U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations (NAVPERS 15665J) in due course. Navy personnel operating in the National Capital Region should adhere to these revised guidelines, ensuring they are appropriately informed about where and when the ncr uniform, specifically the NWU Type III, is authorized for wear. For complete details and specific location clarifications, personnel are encouraged to review NAVADMIN 197/23 and related Naval District Washington instructions.
