Navy enlisted uniforms trial#

It was also worn on shore leave in appropriate climates. Through much of its early years the uniform was worn at sea, but by WW2 it had become mainly a dress uniform used for more formal occasions, such as in formation, ceremonial activities, or for special guard duty. Photos dating back to at least the early 1860s show US sailors wearing a blue wool uniform not too different from the WW2 design. Although its design features evolved from needs that had long since passed into history and were archaic even by WW2 standards, the uniform provided the sailor with an instantly recognizable uniform that boosted morale, evoked esprit de corps, and honored the Navy's proud history. Iconic in appearance, the primary WW2 dress blue outfit consisted of a beret style cap with a ribbon and bow around the band a 'V' neck jumper with a square sailor's collar a silk neckerchief and bellbottom trousers with a 13-button broadfall front. The uniform's main qualities of comfort, practicality, and a distinctive design have endeared it to the sailor. Then, between 19 the uniform was, in fact, briefly replaced with a more contemporary suit and visor cap design only to return to the tried-and-true dress blues.

Navy enlisted uniforms trial#

First, in the mid-40s, an 'Ike' style uniform featuring a short jacket was tried out and was soundly rejected after its trial period. On a couple of occasions the Navy tried to replace the uniform. The venerable dress blues have been in service for over one hundred-fifty years and are still worn today. US Navy Enlisted Men's Blue Dress A & B Uniform Introduction