May 31, 2017, by Leslie Wyman – The United States Armed Forces consists of the Marine Corps, Army, Coast Guard, and Air Force. The Armed forces are responsible for the defense of the country against foreign threats. It also serves as a presence and a force that deals with armed conflicts overseas.
Being part of the military is a big honor for most people. A sense of unity and nationalism is evident in all the people who serve in the armed forces. These people are part of a few and proud organization that sacrifices everything in the name of freedom, peace, and security for the people of the United States of America.
For those who have honorably served in the military, the reward of going home is a great joy. Coming home for them is a reward from what they tirelessly risked and worked for overseas. The moment they get to hug their wives or husbands, the time that they get to carry their children, and the time they see their family, is a feeling like no other.
Don’t be surprised if some Army personnel get angry when they see civilians wear any U.S. Army uniforms. These clothes are sacred because of the blood, sweat, and tears they paid for the name of the country. Some of their comrades even give their lives for the better of everyone. Seeing a uniform that’s ridiculously used by civilians is a direct slap in their face and disrespect to the sacrifices they make.
Stolen Valor is a criminal act punishable by the government which can bring in some hefty fines. People who commit such an act is tantamount to fraud and lying. Stolen valor cases often include individuals claiming medals, awards, ranks, badges, and even military experience. Again, these items are part of the uniform and are only for those who are truly qualified to have them.
Of course, servicemen and women are also humans who commit mistakes while wearing the uniform. Although it is unheard of, small errors may happen from time to time. To avoid these mishaps, here are some tips on proper decorum and proper wearing of the uniform.
The Right Uniform and The Right Branch
Even if an individual is enlisted and is qualified to wear a uniform, it is still illegal for them to wear a uniform from other branches of the armed forces. For example, servicemen and women from the Air Force must not wear clothing from those in the Navy.
Distinct Parts
There are particular hats, badges, and other items that go with a special uniform. Therefore, military personnel should never mix and match them. An example of this is the green beret. The green beret is considered to be a symbol and a distinctive part of the Army’s special forces. Green Berets should never come unless the full uniform is worn.
Honorable Discharge
The United States Military allows personnel to keep one uniform upon an honorable discharge. Honorably discharged members of the armed forces are allowed up to 3 months to wear their uniform for public occasions such as coming home parties, weddings, and other special events.
If individuals wish to use their clothes for such purposes, they should do so within the span of the 3-month regulation. Veterans and other retirees can wear their uniforms for events with a military nature such as Memorial Day and Independence Day.
Takeaway
The U.S. Military is among the best and well-equipped forces in the world today. Being a part of this group is an honor and privilege for men and women. A distinct part of the military is their uniform. Civilians and Personnel alike should always remember that the uniform is not just any ordinary piece of men’s clothing or part of a lady’s wardrobe.
The uniform is their clothing in which they sacrifice blood, sweat, tears, and ultimately, their lives for the greater good. No one should ever disrespect that sacrifice by wearing the uniform inappropriately.
Author Bio: Leslie Wyman is a blogger and writer by heart. She loves writing about militarily themed topics that provide insight for the bravery of men and women fighting overseas for the country. In her free time, Leslie loves going to the gun range with her friends who have honorably served the country. Her favorite rifle is a modified AR-15 which she nicknamed “Arianne.”