Airmen and even civilians can now recommend Air Force of any changes or improvements for future uniforms.
According to the Military.com, the suggestions can be made for the overall uniform appearance standards, badges, patches, and even jewelry.
The suggestions can be submitted on the Air Force’s ‘Airman Powered by Innovation’ website through a Common Access Card (CAC).
“If we want an environment in which Airmen feel valued, we need to create transformative opportunities to foster a culture of innovation and then listen to their ideas,” Lisa Truesdale, Air Force military force policy deputy director, said in a release. “Additionally, wearing the uniform and having pride in your personal appearance enhances esprit de corps.”
According to the release, recommendations can be made for the below categories.
Grooming and appearance: such as hairstyles, beards, shaving, etc.
Dress uniforms: service dress, mess dress, and accessories (e.g. hat, shoes, shirt, belt, tie, ribbons, medals, insignia, etc.)
Utility uniform: Operational Camouflage Pattern Uniform & associated accessories (e.g. hat, boots, belt, t-shirt, insignia, etc.)
Accessories: jewelry, earrings, rings, purses, backpacks, gym bags, phone, headphones, etc.
Outer garments: pullover sweater, cardigan sweater, lightweight blue jacket, fleece, etc.
Physical Training gear: shorts, pants, jacket, shoes, socks, shirt, etc.
Flight Duty uniforms: Two-piece Flight Duty Uniform, Flight Duty Uniform, Desert Flight Duty
Uniform and associated accessories (e.g. hat, boots, t-shirt, patches, insignia, etc.)
Badges and specialty insignia: organization badges, unit patches, duty identification patches, tabs, etc.
Maternity uniforms: service dress, utility, accessories, etc.
Once the recommendations are submitted, a uniform board will review them before presenting them to the Chief of Staff. However, a timeline for rolling out the uniform changes was not confirmed.
This decision was made as part of their effort to create a more inclusive culture and sense of care and belonging among all the ranks.
