Army servicemembers may soon have new uniforms inspired by those of World War II. Sergeant Major of the Army Dan Dailey began his push to bring back the iconic attire back in May, Army Times reported. He believes the pinks and greens, as the uniforms are called, are perfect for boosting morale among servicemembers and civilians.
"That was the uniform of the 'Greatest Generation,'" Dailey told Army Times. "There was a lot of prestige and honor associated with that. The American public identified with that uniform."
Dailey also noted the revised pinks and greens would give the army a daily uniform more appropriate for business rather than combat.
In May, Dailey first made his case during a uniform board meeting with the results of a survey sourced exclusively from Army Times subscribers. About 28,000 readers received the survey, and approximately 5,000 of them responded. Their answers showed overwhelming support for the proposed change:
- 77 percent said they liked the uniforms.
- 59 percent said they preferred the pinks and greens to current uniforms.
- 72 percent said they would like the option to wear pinks and greens.
First round of prototypes unveiled in October
Several months after what turned out to be a successful board meeting, the uniforms are now close to finalization, according to Military.com. Dailey unveiled the first round of prototypes during the Association of the United States Army's annual October meeting. This version had multiple options for the jacket, trousers and shoes. Dailey noted that the final prototypes would be more historically accurate and closely align with what General George C. Marshall wore when serving as the Army's chief of staff during World War II, noting that they will have khaki shirts, brown leather shoes and belted jackets. They will also be made from higher-quality materials and designed for functionality, fit and endurance.
Dailey added he is very aware of the cost of redesigning and implementing new uniforms. He acknowledged that such changes use taxpayer funds and indicated he is adamant about making sure the decision is the correct one before proceeding.
If the new pinks and greens are approved, the occasion will mark the second major dress uniform change in 10 years. The current Army Service Uniform debuted back in 2014, but many considered it to be too formal for everyday office wear.
That said, the amount of support the new uniforms have garnered indicates both servicemembers and the American public are on board with the changes.
Army still debating while Dailey keeps up support
The Army isn't expected to make a final decision on the new uniforms until spring 2018, according to Task and Purpose. Still, Dailey remains a public advocate, wearing them again during the annual Army-Navy football game on December 9. He also tweeted about the event, exclaiming that the uniforms brought good fortune and helped secure an Army win.
Dailey's enthusiasm reiterates his belief that the new uniforms, which will be as historically accurate as possible, would be great tools for boosting resolve. At a time when Army servicemembers are stationed across the globe, the uniforms will be a universal symbol that commands respect while also keeping the wearer looking sleek.
"This is the symbol, for me, of the American soldier," Dailey said according to Task and Purpose. "Still to this day, people can remember what a soldier looked like in the pinks and greens."