JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
How many times have you found yourself wondering, 'Is that Sailor wrong for wearing or looking that way in uniform?' Or how many times have you been told what a current standard is and walked away wondering if the source was correct?
The best way to help correct this type of misinformation is to get educated and find the source! Go to the Navy Personnel Command website and conduct a quick search for grooming standards. Select U.S. Navy Uniforms/Uniform Regulations and the information found under Chapter 2, Section 2, Article 2101 General Information, and Article 2201 Personal Appearance, will answer most commonly asked questions.
Some of the most glaring violations of uniform regulations that I see around Joint Base Charleston - Weapons Station are addressed below:
Uniform smartness. No articles shall protrude from or be visible on the uniform, including such items as, pencils, pens, watch chains, key chain fobs, pins, jewelry, combs, large wallets, cigars, cigarettes, pipes or similar items (jewelry, tie clasps, cuff links, shirt studs and earrings shall be worn as prescribed elsewhere in these regulations).
Conservative sunglasses are permitted that have no mirrored tint on the lenses. They may be worn at anytime except in military formations. Retainer straps are authorized for foreign object debrie prevention and safety only. If retainer straps are required, they shall be plain, black and worn snugly against the back of the head.
Women's cosmetics may be applied in good taste so that colors blend with natural skin tone and enhance natural features. Exaggerated or faddish cosmetic styles are not authorized with the uniform and shall not be worn. Care should be taken to avoid an artificial appearance. Lipstick colors shall be conservative and complement the individual. Long false eyelashes shall not be worn when in uniform.
These are just a few examples of everyday violations seen throughout the installation. Please be a proper shipmate and help enforce proper U.S. Navy standards.