First Female Sailors Graduate in Dress Blue Jumpers
In a landmark event for naval history, the first female Sailors at Recruit Training Command (RTC) proudly graduated from boot camp donning the newly introduced female enlisted dress blue jumper uniform on December 2nd. This historic moment signifies a significant stride towards uniformity within the Navy, as the iconic dress blue “Crackerjack” uniform, traditionally exclusive to males, is now embraced by female sailors.
“We are thrilled to unveil the new female dress blue jumpers here at Recruit Training Command,” remarked Capt. Michael Garrick, commanding officer, RTC. “Our graduating Sailors look outstanding. These new jumpers enhance the uniformity among our divisions, fostering even stronger unit cohesion.”
Division 904, recognized as the state flags graduation performing division, holds the distinction of being the pioneering group of enlisted female recruits to receive the dress blue jumpers upon their arrival in October. Subsequently, all female recruits at the Navy’s sole boot camp are being issued these updated uniforms, further cementing this historical transition.
The design of the uniform mirrors the enlisted male dress blue jumpers, featuring 13 buttons on the trousers and the classic jumper top with a flap. Enhancements for practicality include a side zipper on the jumper top and a front zipper on the trousers, facilitating easier changing. The previous female uniform ensemble, consisting of a jacket and tie for female petty officers and junior Sailors, is being systematically phased out.
“RTC wholeheartedly supports the Navy’s uniform modifications,” stated Master Chief Petty Officer Shawn Isbell, command master chief, RTC. “Our recruit division commanders have been instrumental in training recruits on the correct fitting and wear of these new uniforms. Observing the drill deck filled with white hats and dress blues evokes a sense of pride, knowing every Sailor now wears this globally recognized uniform.”
The U.S. Navy uniform, steeped in tradition dating back to the 18th-century British navy, has continuously evolved to meet the functional requirements of Sailors. Recent uniform redesigns across the Navy aim to enhance uniformity throughout the force, while also improving the practicality and fit of the garments. Similar to the transition to the new “Dixie cup” cover in April 2016, these changes are part of a broader movement towards more gender-neutral uniforms across the board.
Seaman Recruit Leah Mendiola, after trying on her dress blue jumper top, shared her sentiments: “It felt incredible to be among the first females issued this uniform. Wearing the same uniform as my male counterparts who serve our great nation is an amazing feeling and a piece of history. It’s truly remarkable how something as fundamental as our uniform can symbolize equality and uniformity in our esteemed military.”
She expressed a profound sense of honor in being part of the Navy’s uniform transition.
Throughout their eight weeks of basic training, female recruits receive comprehensive instruction on the proper wear and maintenance of the new dress blue uniform. During a recent personnel inspection, the female recruits stood in formation in their living quarters for their final uniform assessment.
“The recruits presented the uniform smartly and appeared exceptionally sharp and professional,” noted Petty Officer 1st Class Moses Brathwaite, fleet quality assurance. “The meticulous wear and care of the uniform, and the standards instilled by the division’s Recruit Division Commanders (RDCs), were clearly evident throughout the inspection. The division was remarkably sharp!”
During their sixth week of training, Division 904 participated in a graduation ceremony where the female recruits publicly debuted the dress blue jumper top for the first time in Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall.
“Holding the Guam flag – my home – was a great honor,” Mendiola recounted. “Marching in front of families in the same uniform as the male Sailors was an unforgettable experience.”
From a male perspective, Petty Officer 1st Class Daniel Mitchell, an RDC for the division, emphasized that a Sailor’s worth is defined by their actions, not their uniform.
“I believe that for women, their uniform is secondary to their accomplishments,” Mitchell stated. “It’s not about the specific garment; it’s about the positive contributions they make, which will be remembered throughout history.”
Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher Treanor, another RDC who observed the division’s progress, recognized the historical significance of the uniform transition.
“During the eight weeks of training these female recruits, the historical context of them being the first female division to wear the female jumper top didn’t fully register until later,” Treanor reflected. “I am deeply proud to be part of this milestone, and I can confidently say they are proud to serve their country and will wear this uniform with pride alongside their brothers in the Navy.”
Beyond uniformity, this change underscores ongoing progress towards equality among Sailors.
“Wearing the same uniform fosters a sense of equality, which the Navy strongly emphasizes,” Mendiola concluded. “Now, with these uniforms, I truly feel equal to my male counterparts.”
Boot camp spans approximately eight weeks and serves as the entry point for all enlistees in the United States Navy. Training encompasses seamanship, firearms familiarization, firefighting and shipboard damage control, Navy heritage and core values, teamwork, and discipline. Following the closures of RTCs in Orlando and San Diego in 1994, RTC Great Lakes stands as the Navy’s sole basic training facility, known as “The Quarterdeck of the Navy.”
Annually, RTC Great Lakes graduates between 30,000 and 40,000 recruits who embark on their Navy careers.
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For more news from Recruit Training Command, please visit www.navy.mil/.
