For years, sports enthusiasts have reveled in nostalgia as Major League Baseball and the National Football League teams donned throwback uniforms, celebrating their franchises’ rich histories. Now, the U.S. Army is taking a page from this playbook, finalizing its decision to reinstate a throwback uniform that pays tribute to the distinguished WWII Army—the iconic WWII officer uniform, affectionately known as “pinks and greens.”
The original WWII officer uniform, the winter service uniform, was a study in subtle yet distinctive contrasts. It featured a dark olive-drab gabardine wool coat, the “greens,” complete with a sewn-on cloth belt, paired with lighter shade drab trousers, the “pinks.” Army russet brown service shoes and the brim of the service cap complemented the ensemble. In stark contrast, enlisted personnel during WWII wore uniforms of a more uniform medium olive-drab shade for both trousers and service coats.
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The modern iteration of the pinks and greens uniform is set to be available across all ranks, mirroring the role of the dress green uniform before its phasing out in 2015. The current dress-blue uniform will transition to an optional formal wear for special occasions. Prototypes suggest a striking resemblance to the original WWII officer uniform, capturing the spirit of the era. The final design will incorporate elements that reflect the variations seen during World War II. One such variation is the “crusher cap,” born from flight crews removing the stiffener in their service caps to accommodate headphones. This practical modification created a distinctive “crushed” look, transforming the cap into a coveted status symbol among aircrews, as recognizable as their flight jackets and silver wings. Early prototypes hint that the new service cap will emulate this iconic “crusher” style.
Adding to the historical homage, the Army is considering offering a WWII-style leather flight jacket and a shorter “Ike” service jacket as optional uniform items, according to Matthew Cox at Military.com. Sergeant Major of the Army Daniel Dailey articulates that the adoption of this new uniform is rooted in a desire to reconnect the American public with a period of unparalleled pride in their Army.
Dailey’s rationale resonates deeply. The US Marine Corps’ steadfast adherence to its WWII service uniform, with minimal alterations, has arguably contributed to a strong and consistent identity. This contrasts with other service branches that have faced identity challenges over the years. By 1945, the US Army had swelled to over eight million soldiers, achieving victory in some of history’s most significant and brutal campaigns. The question arises: why deviate from a uniform so deeply intertwined with such a triumphant period? It’s akin to imagining the New York Yankees abandoning their iconic pinstripes—unthinkable for many.
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Interestingly, the shift away from the WWII olive-drab “Class A” uniform to the dress green service uniform was driven by a practical, if less romantic, reason: surplus. As detailed in a 1954 issue of The Quartermaster Review, the market was flooded with WWII uniforms. They were so abundant they were being used as cheap workwear by laborers and even as prison uniforms. The dress green uniform was adopted to restore a sense of distinction and pride within the ranks of the post-WWII Army.
Now, seventy-five years after the end of World War II, the context has drastically changed. The days of WWII-era uniforms being commonplace in civilian life are long gone. The decision by Sergeant Major of the Army Dailey and Chief of Staff General Mark Milley to revive the classic WWII officer uniform is a commendable step. It’s a powerful way to honor the Army’s legacy, rekindle pride, and present a distinguished image for a new generation.
