Navy authorizes new uniform rank tabs after reports of ‘uncomfortable gaze’

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U.S. Navy
Image source: U.S. Navy

The navy has authorized new uniform rank tabs that stand out better than the earlier woodland camouflage design.

This change came into existence after sailors complained about having to stare at each other’s chests to determine their pay grades or ranks.

“Your concerns have been heard,” Navy Personnel Command posted when introducing the new policy. “The Navy has now authorized a new and more recognizable rank tab for optional wear.”

The new policy authorizes the cold weather park rank insignia for optional wear along with the navy working uniform items.

The new rank insignias that are in red, silver, or gold colors are sewn into black rectangles making it easily stand out from the woodland camouflage patterns.

However, the camouflage variants will still remain authorized for wear and are required in some cases.

“Camo must be worn in tactical and training environments when camouflage protection is needed,” Navy Personnel Command noted.

Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. John Nowell wrote about the change in a service-wide message after receiving feedback from the fleet. Other sailors have also told Nowell about the awkward unintended glances that were required to determine the rank, due to the placement and background obscurity.

“I am uncomfortable staring at a female’s chest to see her rank,” the sailor said. “It’s hard to identify even from just a few feet away… Why can’t we go back to ranks on eight-point covers or somewhere different on the uniform blouse?”

With the new authorization, the Navy personnel can now easily swap the camouflage rank tab with that of the cold weather one on their uniforms.

“Slide the insignia right side up on the rank tab of the NWU Type III parka, black fleece liner, and shirt rank tab,” the message from Nowell states.

Sailors can provide feedback on other uniform policies through the MyNavy portal.