Uniforms: Name tags with your first name

By Daren Lewis

Shipmates,
The Auxiliary Manual authorizes members to wear a name tag with our first names included. I find this is a great option in a number of circumstances:

• At Flotilla meetings where it helps prospective and new members acclimate while meeting a dozen new faces.
• When representing the Auxiliary and the Coast Guard at outside events.
• In general business use on Coast Guard bases.

The name tag with my first name has become my default option with Tropical Blue. For formal events and when wearing Service Dress Blue I wear my standard, last name only, name tag.

The Coast Guard Uniform Regulations, COMDTINST M1020.6 (series) authorize active duty and Reserve personnel to wear name tags that display first and last names in lieu of the standard name tag (last name only). An individual’s first and last name and the “U.S. Coast Guard” legend letter sizes must be the same as for the standard name tag. This applies only to name tags of Bakelite or similar material, not to cloth name tapes. Commands have the authority to require the standard name tag when a higher level of uniformity is necessary. Auxiliarists are similarly authorized to wear name tags with first and last names displayed in accordance with these guidelines. A displayed first name must be the Auxiliarist’s full common first name or conventional shortened derivative (e.g., Mike instead of Michael). Nicknames or parenthesized names are not authorized (e.g., Doc, Mac, “Lefty”). Auxiliarists must also have a standard name tag for when a higher level of uniformity is necessary. - COMDTINST M16790.1G Auxiliary Manual, Ch.10.F.3.

Tucked ODUs

By Daren Lewis

Shipmates, We discussed tucked ODUs at the Flotilla meeting. To clarify, tucked ODUs remain authorized until no longer serviceable:

Auxiliarists shall pay particular attention to appearance while wearing the ODU. It shall be serviceable, well-maintained, clean, and not faded or discolored. In addition to the following general provisions, proper wear and maintenance shall be as prescribed in the Uniform Regulations, COMDTINST M1020.6 (series), or other relevant, interim Coast Guard policy. The untucked version of the ODU has black Coast Guard emblems embossed on them in several locations. Untucked ODUs are not produced without the emblems. Therefore, Auxiliarists are authorized to wear the untucked ODU version with the embossed Coast Guard emblems. Moreover, although the untucked ODU is the prescribed version, Auxiliarists are authorized to wear the tucked ODU version until no longer serviceable. - COMDTINST M16790.1G Auxiliary Manual Chapter 10, H.4.

As a reminder we have been requested to make all possible effort to wear un-tucked ODUs while aboard MSU Portland.

Windbreaker and Trench Coat insignia placement

Shipmates,

The insignia worn on our Coast Guard windbreaker and Trench Coat are a special large size. The placement of these devices is not clearly defined in the Auxiliary Manual but it can be found in the Coast Guard Uniform Manual COMDTINST M1020.6G.

In Chapter 3.D.3. "Officer Rank Insignia Placement" the placement is described as follows:

"Larger metal shoulder rank insignia are worn on outerwear epaulets so that the outer edge of the insignia is parallel to and 3/4 inch from the straight side of the epaulet."

December 31 Uniform Changes

From D13 EXCOM

Shipmates,
Each of us takes pride in wearing the Auxiliary uniform. The new year will bring a number of changes to our Auxiliary uniform as announced in the Auxiliary Manual published in August 2011 (COMDTINST M16790.1G). Many of these changes are to little used uniforms and uniform items and have little impact on the majority of members. A few are significant and we'd like to assure all members are aware of the changes to avoid inadvertent violation of the uniform rules.

Please take this opportunity to review the changes and assure that you are in compliance as of 2013.

Thank you for your attention to these changes and your commitment to the Core Values of the Coast Guard as shown by your proper wear of the uniform.

If you have any questions please submit them via your chain of leadership and management.

Note: All letter references are to the Auxiliary Manual, COMDTINST M16790.1G, Chapter 10


Authorized Uniforms After 31 DEC 2012 (subject to wear dates and other limitations)

• Blue Blazer Outfit [E.2.]
• Auxiliary Jump Suit [E.3.]
• Auxiliary Operations Polo Shirt [E.4.]
• Dinner Dress Blue Jacket Uniform [G.1./I.1.]
• Dinner Dress White Jacket Uniform [G.2./I.2.]
• Service Dress Blue [G.3./I.3.]
• Dinner Dress Blue [G.5./I.4.]
• Service Dress White [G.6./I.5.]
• Winter Dress Blue - 01NOV-31MAR each year [G.7./I.6.]
• Tropical Blue [G.8./I.7.]
• Undress Blue Winter [G.9./I.8.]
• Hot Weather Uniform [H.3. / see also Operational Polo (E.4.) & VE Polo (A.2.) options]
• Operational Dress Uniform (Tucked and Untucked) [H.4. / see also Operational Polo (E.4.) & VE Polo (A.2.) options]
• Auxiliary Flight Suit [H.5.]
• Auxiliary Chef (AUXCHEF) Uniform [H.6.]
• Organizational clothing (e.g. Anti-exposure PPE for Air & Surface Operations)

Discontinued Uniforms as of 31 DEC 2012

• Undress Blue - Summer (Alpha) [G.10.]
• Undress Blue - Summer (Bravo) [H.1.]
• Working Blue [H.2.]

Changes in wear as of 31 DEC 2012

• Cardigan Sweater is no longer authorized with the ODU [D.6.]
• Wooly-Pully Sweater is no longer authorized with the ODU [D.6.]
• Windbreaker is no longer authorized with the ODU [D.10.a.]
• Auxiliary Ball Caps WITH silver embroidered visor ornamentation are no longer authorized [D.3.b]
• Auxiliary Ball Caps WITH mesh backs are no longer authorized [D.3.b]
• Auxiliary Ball Caps WITH embroidered/sew-on devices are no longer authorized [D.3.b.] (metal devices are required as of 31 DEC 2012)
• Trench Coat is no longer authorized with the ODU [D.10.e.]
• Garrison Cap is no longer authorized with Service Dress Blue, only the combination cap may be worn [G.3.j./I.3.j.]

Individual Uniform Items Discontinued After 31 DEC 2012

• Blue Working Utility Cap [D.3.a.]
• Work Jacket [D.10.b.]
• Foul Weather Jacket WITH Service Dress Blue [D.10.c.]
• Reefer Coat [D.10.d.]
• Overcoat [D.10.f.]

In addition please note the three following areas of particular concern:

• Wear of Coast Guard Unit Ball Caps have very specific wear requirements and allowable circumstances for wear by Auxiliarists. If you have the privilege of supporting a Coast Guard unit and have the Command's authorization to wear the Unit Ball Cap please be sure to know, understand and follow these requirements. [D.3.c.]
• Soft shoulder boards/shoulder loops have not been authorized on Tropical Blue for a number of years and are no longer authorized on any uniform item including sweaters [D.5.].
• For District 13 the Active Duty Chief of Staff has put the period for winter uniforms as 01 November - 31 March. Tropical blue is always authorized for the D13 Staff for office wear. Between 01 November - 31 March ODUs will be worn with sleeves rolled down. If you work with a Coast Guard unit follow the Command direction of sleeves when aboard that unit.

Very respectfully,
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, District 13 EXCOM

December Meeting Highlights

Post by FSO-PB Jonathan James

FC John Poulson, thank you sir for your outstanding dedication and hard work to this flotilla and your shipmates. You pulled us through some confused seas the last couple of years and the flotilla is stronger then ever and thriving because of your leadership.

Last Wednesday was your last meeting as Flotilla Commander and probably the quickest of all the meetings in which you were the Chair. Was this you, ready to give up the Gavel, or was it because you had something planned for after the meeting? Well of course you had something planned for after the meeting, it was a fun and non-violent gift exchange and party to allow us all to have some great fellowship and food. And what better way to go out than with a party.

Some quick highlights from the meeting before you get to see some pictures.

* If you plan on participating in the crew and coxswain academy this year, please contact John Poulson and Kevin Thiel FSO-OP 2012 with your intentions. They will work with you to see that your squared away for the academy.

* Congrats to Lynn Easton. Your a Grandaddy to another Granddaughter . Another lucky one to spoil.

* DIRAUX notes are being sent once a month highlighting activities in DIRAUX's office. This is a great source of information from DIRAUX and the staff that helps keep the auxiliary running.

* Uniform of the day at the boat show will be Tropical Blue. Please see that your uniform is squared away when attending the boat show.

* The UDC has an excess of the untucked ODU which means you may now purchase more then 1 set of the ODU from the UDC.

*Commanders remarks were short due to the Change of Watch where FC Poulson will grace us with his last Commanders Comments before passing the Gavel to FC elect Rick Williams.

*If you have not sent your check in for the Change of Watch, please do so as soon as you can. Its going to be a memorable COW.

Stay tuned for more on the meeting in the December meeting minutes.


Here is a slideshow of the meeting and party.


Photos by FSO-BP Jonathan James

Change of Watch Uniform Preperation for the Tropical Blue Long.

Here are some tips to help prep your Tropical Blue Uniform to give it a more formal look for those members who don’t own Winter Dress Blue or Service Dress Blue uniforms. In this article, we will look at pressing your uniform, adding military creases, and tricks for installing your attachments.

PRESSING AND CREASING YOUR UNIFORM SHIRT.

Step 1. Pressing the Shirt.

a. Iron with steam and let cool.

b. Starch with no steam to get wrinkles out (do a panel at a time).

c. The Yoke (figure 1) will need two be starched twice at this step as well as the epilates and collar. This will not be starched later and will help pop your military creases on the back.

Step 2. Adding the military crease to the front on the shirt.

a. The crease will run right through the shirt pocket button. Measure this distance from the edge of the shirt to the button (see figure 2) This will be the distance from the top to the bottom of the shirt.

b. With no steam very lightly press the crease from the button down to the bottom of shirt.

c. If you feel the crease is right, press with steam.

d. Now starch and iron twice to set the crease.

e. With no steam very lightly press the crease from the button up to the top of shirt and repeat steps C and D.

f. Repeat step 2 for the other side.

Step 3. Sleeve creases.

a. Fold the sleeve in half with the seam at the bottom of the shirt.

b. Lightly crease the shirt with no steam.

c. If you feel the crease is right, press with steam.

d. Starch twice and flip the shirt and starch the backside twice.

e. Repeat steps A, B, C, and D for the other sleeve.

Step 4. Back Creases (DO NOT CREASE ABOVE THE BOTTOM SEAM OF THE YOKE, SEE FIGURE 3)

a. Fold the shirt in half to find where the middle crease will go. This step should be taken with care. This will make your creases straight or angled. (Align the side seams to get the straight crease). (See figure 4).

b. Once the middle is found, lightly crease with no steam.

c. Press middle crease with steam to set temporarily.

d. If you have a DVD case, you can use it to set the width of the other two creases along the back.

e. Use the DVD case width to find your crease and slowly press the crease with the dry iron.

f. Press side crease with steam.

g. Repeat steps E and F for other side crease.

h. Start from one side and starch each side of the crease twice.

i. Work your way to the middle and then the other side by following step H.

Now your shirt is squared away and you’re ready to install your attachments.

ATTACHING YOUR INSIGNIA AND DEVICES.

Set you’re ironing table up with a towel folded a couple of times laid on top. Have some white cardboard, a pair of scissors and a ruler (I like to use a clear ruler).

Cardboard will be used behind the attachments to suck them to the shirt which will stop the drooping appearance. A good starching job to the shirt helps keep this from happening as well.

Step 1. Nametag (If you have an AUXOP device follow step 2)

a. First cut a piece of cardboard the same size as your nametag and set aside.

b. A quick method of finding the general area is to align the name’s middle letter (JAMES would be “m”) with the crease and place your name tag so the clutch posts are parallel with your uniform and the bottom of the name tag is against the top of the pocket. (Clutches pointing towards the top of your shirt).

c. Roll the name tag and push the clutch posts through the shirt. This should be close to the ¼ inch spacing from the top of the pocket.

d. Now fine tune the spacing with the ruler.

e. Place the cardboard piece you cut earlier inside of the shirt and align with your name tag and push the clutch posts through the cardboard and secure the clutches to the posts.

f. Check for alignment.

Step 2. Ribbons and Insignia/devise (if you only have ribbons, follow steps A through F of step 1)

a. Start with your ribbons and follow steps B, C, and D of step 1.

b. If you have any other insignia/devise follow steps B, C, and D of step 1 using the ribbons like you would the top of the shirt pocket.

c. This step is a little trickier then with your name tag. Take a piece of cardboard (this piece should be white) and place on top of your ribbons and device. Cut cardboard to the general size and then attach like step E and trim as necessary.

d. Once cut to size, attach clutches and check for alignment.(See Figure 5)

I hope these steps will help you ready you’re uniform for the Change of Watch. If you have any questions about getting your uniform ready or any general uniform question, please send me an email.

District Store in our own backyard

The District Staff Officer - Materials, Matt Epstein, is a member of Flotilla 78 and maintains the District store here locally.

My inventory includes garrison hats, shoulder boards, most of the ribbons, medals, D13 logo shirts, patrol signs, patrol & Aux ensigns, various metal insignia, the new black A sew-on insignia for ODU's, and various other items. You can include this link to the D13 Store on the web http://a130.uscgaux.info/dso-ma/index.htm that includes info on how to contact me to order.

Matt's contact information is on the D13 site and in our directory. Matt is often willing, with some reasonable notice, to bring materials to the Division meetings.

Official sew-on devices for your ODUs at the on-line District Store

The on-line District store at shopauxiliary.com now has the official sew on devices for the Operational Dress Uniform.

These include:

• Auxiliary Trident Device
• Past Officer Device
• AUXOP Device
• Past Officer Device
• Recreational Boating Safety Device
• Auxiliary Aviator Wings
• Auxiliary Aircrew Wings

...as well as the officer devices with black "A" to replace the red and blue "A"s used to date. We don't know much about this change yet but I'm sure we'll find out.

Untucked Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) update II

MCPOCG Bowen passes along an ODU update from the Uniform Program Manager. The bottom line is that the Auxiliary may be able to order untucked ODUs as soon as September. Please keep in mind that new members, for whom sizes of the tucked ODU are not available, can order a single set of untucked ODUs. Talk to me if you fall into this situation.

Untucked Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) update

The USCG Uniform Distribution Center reports:

New Untucked Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) - We are now accepting regular orders for the new Untucked ODUs for active duty Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve personnel only. All outstanding pre-orders will be given precedence and will be filled as stock becomes available. The Uniform Program plans to open up sales to Auxiliary members in the near future. Your continued patience is appreciated.

So it looks like we'll be seeing the new ODU soon. Please do not attempt to order the untucked ODU until the UDC announces Auxiliary availability. The UDC does a great job and I'm sure they are working hard to prepare stock for us.

ALAUX: COAST GUARD UNIT BALL CAP CLARIFICATION -011/09

Shipmates,
Here is the official clarification on unit ball caps - as I indicated at our last meeting we are to wear Auxiliary caps while on patrol. Please comply if you are not already doing so. If you need any assistance please let me know. I fully understand the wearing of our unit ball caps is a point of pride, one I share. Please continue to wear your Sector cap aboard Sector Portland and to fellowship events if you desire to do so. 


Remember, it does not matter what cap you are wearing... you are a Guardian.


- Daren


To:    ALAUX
From:  CHDIRAUX
Subj:  COAST GUARD UNIT BALL CAP CLARIFICATION -011/09


1.  ALAUX 33/08 of 10 November 2008 dealt with several Auxiliary uniform matters.  One of these involved the wear of ball caps, specifically Coast Guard unit ball caps.  Section 1.C.2. stated:

   "If an Auxiliarist is authorized to wear a Coast Guard unit ball cap, such wear shall not extend to activities involving public interaction.  This is to ensure that an Auxiliarist is not mistaken by the public as an active member of a Coast Guard unit with commensurate authority.  For example, an Auxiliarist may not wear a Coast Guard unit ball cap when performing VSCs."

2.  Questions have arisen as to whether or not the conduct of Auxiliary patrols (e.g. - surface patrols on vessel facilities) constitutes "...involving public interaction."  The short answer is "Yes, Auxiliary patrols involve public interaction."  As further clarification, the following involve public interaction:

   a.  Performance of Vessel Examiner (VE) activities involving Vessel Safety Checks (VSC) and Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Exams (CFVSE).
   b.  Performance of Program Visitor (PV) activities.
   c.  Performance of Instructor (IT) activities.
   d.  Performance of patrol activities (surface, air, shoreside including missions involving mobile radio facilities).
   e.  Performance of Marine Safety, Security, and Environmental Protection
       (MSSEP) activities.
   f.  Performance of public outreach, public affairs, and recruiting activities.

3.  Situations in which a Coast Guard unit ball cap may be worn, if authorized, include:

   a.  Wear of the cap to, at, and from the unit in the course of providing the direct support for which it is      authorized (appropriate for commuting, stops for gas, and drive-thru services).
   b.  Wear of the cap to, at, and from flotilla meetings (appropriate for commuting, stops for gas, and drive-thru        services).
   c.  Wear of the cap to, at, and from flotilla fellowship events (appropriate for commuting, stops for gas, and drive-thru services).

4.  If there is any doubt about the propriety of wearing a Coast Guard unit ball cap due to potential interaction with the public, then the Auxiliary ball cap shall be worn.

5.  These guidelines will be included in the next change to the Auxiliary Manual.

6.  The purpose of this list is to keep Auxiliarists as well as all other interested parties abreast of current developments, policies, manuals, etc. All information contained herein and linked is OFFICIAL policy and information.

7.  Internet Release and Distribution is Authorized.

8.  CG-542, sends

Uniforms: Utility Jacket

Just a reminder the shopauxiliary.com site still has stock of some sizes of the discontinued Coast Guard Blue Utility Jacket for $10. While this item is no longer issued to the active duty it is appropriate wear with the tucked ODU for Auxiliarists until no loner serviceable. This is not appropriate for wear with the untucked ODU.

If you don't want to spend the money on a Foul Weather Parka this is a good short term alternative to have a piece of uniform outwear.

To use the shopauxiliary.com you will need your member number and a eDirectory password. If you do not have an eDirectory password please go here to get one.

As of 17FEB2009 the following sizes are available.

Coast Guard Blue Utility Jacket
Coast Guard Blue Utility Jacket Discontinued All Sales Final

PRICE:

Our Price: $10.00 $10.00 XXSM/XXSHORT $10.00 XXSM/XSHORT $10.00 XSM/XXSHORT $10.00 XSM/XSHORT $10.00 XSM/REG $10.00 SM/XXSHORT $10.00 SMXSHORT $10.00 SM/SHORT $10.00 SM/REG $10.00 MD/XXSHORT $10.00 MD/XSHORT $10.00 MD/XLONG $10.00 LG/SHORT $10.00 LG/XLONG $10.00 XLG/LONG $10.00 XLG/XLONG

Un-tucked ODU supply update

The un-tucked ODU will likely not be available to Auxiliarists until sometime after June 2009 when active duty pre-orders are expected to be complete.

Please remember that if and when you do procure the un-tucked ODU you may not mix and match uniform pieces with the current tucked version (ODU 1.0). Also the current ODU must not be worn un-tucked.

Subject: ODU untucked status - Jan 09

In June 2008, an ALCOAST was issued announcing pre-ordering of the Un-tucked ODU. In late September 2008, thru size testing, the Uniform Program identified that a large percentage of the wear test members were not using the size prediction chart designed for the untucked ODU. Additionally, some members incorrectly used their tucked ODU's as a size reference. The tucked ODU and the untucked ODU are fitted and measured differently. The Uniform Program recognized the above as a potential issue prior to releasing any pre-orders. During the same time period, the Uniform Program identified a fabric shading problem. The actions taken to correct this problem effected a large amount of the untucked ODU inventory we had at the UDC; resulting in a need to remanufacture this inventory.

The UDC has filled 52% of the untucked ODU pre-orders and currently has approximately 3,000 more pre-orders to fill; representing 16,000 individual uniform items. The UDC continues to receive and enter approximately 50 to 60 untucked ODU pre-orders daily.

The Untucked ODU will be a mandatory uniform at the close of 2012. However, the Uniform Program understands that many members have a strong desire to immediately transition to the new uniform; therefore, we are aggressively working with CG-9 and the manufacturer to increase production. The UDC continues to ship pre-orders daily; we anticipate pre-orders will be shipped by June 2009.

The entire Uniform Program greatly appreciates your patience and we are personally committed to the successful and expedient fulfillment of your untucked ODU's orders.

[Mr.] Carol W. Brewton

Uniform Program Manager- USCG

Buying, preparing and wearing the ODU

UPDATE NOV2010: This document is focused on the tucked-ODU. There are a few items of policy that are not reflected in the document and require updates.2009.01.11 - ODU Uniform Presentation

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Other Presentations & Slid uscgaux odu

Ribbon precedence (order)

Correct wearing of the Coast Guard uniform includes correct wear of your awards. The proper order for your awards can be confusing for new members.

The Auxiliary Manual [COMDTINST M16790.1F] sets the precedence for awards received in the Auxiliary as well as prior service awards.

Luckily the Chief Director of Auxiliary provides an easy online tool to help you configure your ribbon bars, the ribbon checker .

Review the list, viewing awards using the "fx" button as required, and check off your Auxiliary awards and any prior service awards. Once you are finished the ribbon checker will display the proper order for you.

Finally, ask an experienced member to review your ribbon bar.

Uniforms: Foul Weather Parka II

The Foul Weather Parka II is a great optional uniform item. It:

• is Gortex for rain and spray protection
  
• is, with the optional liner, very warm
  
• looks sharp
• protects your uniform ribbons and attachments from the dreaded seatbelt when driving
• and can be worn with all the standard Aux uniforms including ODUs, Tropical Blue Long, Winter Dress Blue and in place of the Service Dress Blue coat for informal situations
  

The FWP II has two components, the parka itself and the optional Polartec Jacket/Liner II. There is also a set of matching Goretex trousers.

The FWP II is available from the USCG Uniform Distribution Center is 35 sizes. Currently $188.58

The liner and trousers available directly from the manufacturer, Propper (EPropper.com)

Polartec Jacket/Liner II (model number F5413) - $60

Foul Weather Trouser II (model number F5207) - $200

Obviously this is a very expensive ensemble, I recommend starting with the FWP II and then considering the liner and trousers. Please remember this is a 100% optional item. There are likely a number of other uniform purchases you will want to make first (ODUs AND Trops).

Some members consider getting a float coat instead of the FWP II but the float coat is PPE and cannot be worn except during operations and operations related training so the FWP II is much more flexible.

Note: The FWP II replaces the All Weather Parka (AWP) and is designed to fit over the new un-tucked ODUs. The AWP is still authorized as long as your un-tucked ODU shirt does not show. Propper still has the AWP listed as a closeout item online but the $30 savings is probably not worth the risk that you will be unable to wear the un-tucked ODU with your parka.

New Members: Tropical Blue Long uniform

In the choosing a first uniform post I suggested two uniforms as potential choices for your first uniform, the ODU and Tropical Blue, Long. The Tropical Blue Long, or Trops, uniform is the more formal of these uniforms and should be your first purchase if you plan to participate primarily in activities other than operations.

As with many of the choices you face as a new member choosing and aquiring your first uniform should be done in consultation with your mentor. This post will familiarize you with the terms and sources of supply so you can make the most of your conversation with your mentor.

Trops consist of a number of components, many of which are also worn with othe uniforms. Click here to see a full size version of the image to the right which describes the components of the uniform and the sources of each component.

Some of the components are general Coast Guard issue and are available at the Coast Guard Uniform Distribution Center (UDC) and at the Coast Guard Exchage at Sector Portland. The UDC is generally the cheapest source for the uniform items they carry.

• Garrison cap (UDC or Sector Exchange)
• Light blue short sleeve shirt (UDC or Sector Exchange)
• SDB trousers (UDC or Sector Exchange)
• Auxiliary belt and buckle (UDC)
• Black dress shoes (UDC, Sector Exchange, or commercial plain toe black oxfords)

A few items are Auxiliary unique and are only available from the Auxiliary District Store. Some of the uniform items above are also available from the District store but the prices can be substantially higher.

• Auxiliary garrison cap device
• Auxiliary member insignia or officer device (1 for cap)
• Auxiliary member of officer shoulder boards
• Auxiliary belt and buckle

There are two items from the commercial market:

• Black dress socks
• V-neck white undershirt. The undershirt should not show.

Finally, you will need an Auxiliary name tag - the flotilla provides these to all new members.

The assembly and wear, as well as various options, of the Trops uniform can be found in Chapter 10 of the Auxiliary Manual  

New members: Choosing a first uniform

Purchasing your first USCG Auxiliary uniform is a key milestone in becoming an Auxiliarist. The uniform identifies you as an Auxiliarist to the public and creates a sense of shared purpose with your fellow members.

Over time most members gather a fairly wide range of uniform items that are combined into various uniform ensembles. As a new member we encourage you to keep things simple and start with either the Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) or the Tropical Blue, Long uniform (usually called “Trops” or Tropical Blue). Eventually you will want both uniforms since owning these two uniforms, along with civilian clothing appropriate to formal occasions, will allow you to participate in any Auxiliary event.

Which uniform you choose is likely most influenced by your initial interests. If you plan on focusing on surface operations (boat crew) or vessel exams I suggest the Operational Dress Uniform (ODU). If you are more interested in teaching and public affairs I suggest Tropical Blue, Long.

A complete Tropical Blue, Long uniform including dress shoes ($60) costs around $175

A complete Operational Dress Uniform including boots ($60) costs around $145

We often have some donated uniform items available that can reduce this initial outlay.

Your mentor will guide you through the process of procuring the appropriate uniform items and we’ll discuss the elements of each uniform and proper wear in future posts.

Winter Uniforms are Authorized

01 October brings in the season of winter uniforms which, for the most part, means the Winter Dress Blue is authorized.

The Winter Dress Blue uniform is my favorite uniform as it is both formal and traditional while being 100% Coast Guard blue.

For our newer members the Winter Dress Blue is similar to Tropical Blue Long but substitutes the CPO shirt (found here at the UDC , scroll to the bottom) for the light blue shirt and adds the USCG tie (found here at the UDC )

ODU Availability at the Sector Portland Exchange

Shipmates,
Please be aware that the Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) may not be available at the Sector Portland exchange for some period of time.

All current ODUs are being returned to the Uniform Distribution Center (UDC) in preparation for the issuance of the new un-tucked ODU to the exchanges. See the ALCOAST on this issue.

While this ALCOAST seems to indicate that Auxiliarists can order the un-tucked ODU from the UDC but when you visit the UDC you will see that only active duty and reserve members can preorder. I’d ask that you wait until the UDC website indicates that the un-tucked ODU is available to Auxiliarists to order, the UDC staff is likely working long shifts making this transition.

The “old” ODU is available for order from the UDC, sizes may be limited.