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AF updates image: phases out BDU

  • Published
  • By Airman Basic Anthony Jennings
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  The Air Force has finalized an image update, phasing out a uniform that has been worn by military servicemembers for more than two decades.

As of Nov. 1, the wear of the Battle Dress Uniform will be prohibited and the Airman Battlefield Uniform and ABU items will be mandatory according to Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance.

On July 18, Air Force officials revised the AFI to phase out the BDU, black shirt, black combat boots, desert camouflage uniforms and tan boots.

"I've seen many iterations of the utility uniform during my 24 years of service," said Chief Master Sgt. Margarita Overton, 36th Wing command chief. "What I like about the ABU is not only is it designed to have us operate in any terrain, but it's meant to save Airmen both time and money in upkeep, maintenance and replacement."

According to AFI 36-2903 1.1.2, "Pride in one's personal appearance and wearing the uniform, greatly enhances the esprit de corps essential to an effective military force. Therefore, it is most important for all Airmen to maintain a high standard of dress and personal appearance."

Base leadership reminds Airmen to not only adhere to the uniform updates themselves, but to monitor and remind other Airmen of compliance standards.

"Despite the changes I've seen there has been on constant throughout; the words 'U.S. Air Force,'" Chief Overton said. "As we embrace the ABU as our official utility uniform, always remember it's not about what's written on the right side, it's about what is written on the left. Wear the uniform correctly with pride and expect others to do the same."

For more information on the proper dress and appearance, refer to AFI 36-2903.