School Uniforms – ACUs v. Civilian Dress

By Karen Hix, M.Ed. - Education Support 

Not long ago, SGM Malone and I had a 15-minute visit with a Government teacher at a local high school.  The SGM was in ACUs and I was in professional civilian dress as the civilian contractor.  SGM Malone repeatedly mentioned the National Guard in this conversation – “represent the National Guard” – “oversee the National Guard recruiters” – been in the National Guard” – ABOUT 5 TIMES IN 15 MINUTES.  When we ended the conversation, the Government teacher said, “You Army recruiters are great; you are always welcome to talk to my classes.” ARMY?  Was she even listening?  Probably so; however, your uniforms have a “US ARMY” label, and (trust me on this) very few people even know what rank you are, what the badges, ribbons, patches, and other ‘paraphernalia’ is on your uniform.  They see camouflage, your name, and US ARMY.  That’s all they recognize – and all they respond to – no offense, but that’s reality.

To set yourself apart from the other service branches, when appropriate, and if your command allows it, I suggest you wear Civilian Dress (soft sell) uniform for classroom presentations; a collared shirt with National Guard logo, dress slacks (or a skirt for women), and business casual shoes, at a minimum.  You are a member of the community and a guest speaker in the classroom.  If you are talking to students about going to college, setting goals, or other civilian topics, wear your Civilian Dress.  Of course, whenever you present or represent military careers and what the National Guard is, then wear ACUs or Class Bs.   For instance, for most tabletop displays, you represent the Guard and a career in the Guard – wear military uniform.  

While we are on the subject of dress codes for schools – dress professionally, as a role model for students, and to gain the respect of school personnel.  Even if you are only a couple of years older than the students are; you have a maturity level that exceeds theirs, you stand for values, and you want to inspire them to become better citizens. Wearing the same styles as the students does not get you that respect.  Students, personnel, administration, and parents EXPECT you to be a step up from the students – you’ve earned it.  Wearing blue jeans, baggy shorts, huge t-shirts and tennis shoes (for guys), or tiny t-shirts bearing midriff and shorts with flip-flop sandals (for girls), showing off tattoos and piercings, or wearing other teen fad styles –  does not give school authorities, parents, or students the idea that you are serious about your presentation or your message.  You ARE the Guard. 

Does wearing Civilian Dress Uniform mean that you are not proud to wear the ACU or Class B uniform?  No!  However, in this competitive recruiting world, you have to set yourself apart from the other service branches.  National Guard has many unique features and benefits that the other service branches do not offer; Civilian Dress Uniform sets you apart – and lets others know you are with the National Guard.

Now, retired SGM Malone believes that a Recruiter should be in uniform all the time, preferably Class Bs.  I agree with that most of the time; but he also thinks that if you are in civilian clothing that you are trying to “sneak up” on them or you are not proud to be a soldier.  He mentions all the time that he has never seen a Marine Recruiter other than in uniform.  Obviously, he and I have agreed to disagree; but what do you think?  Let us know with your comments.