Acu in public? is it allowed?

Question

can i wear my ACU uniform with my insigs out in public? I completed BCT , but was curious if im allowed to? Not that I want to go to the malls and shop around with it cause too much ppl will stare. I just want to know if i will be breaking any rules , if I wore the jacket and trousers in public , if its allowed? thank you so much to everyone that answers this question.

Answer 1

It is STRONGLY discouraged.  The ACUs are a  military work uniforms therefore are accustomed to getting dirty.  The army frowns upon wearing ACUs out in public since they are not a professional looking uniform.

There are some exceptions about going out in public:  quick stops (very quick stops) to the gas station, drug store, etc.  The other exceptions are recruiters and people on HRAP duty.

Now I'll admit, I got the same scare tactics when I came in.  I haven't seen a regulation on this but I haven't looked for it either.  If there's a reg for this ask the recruiters since they work with the public.

By the way, the other branches have similiar policies about this.

Welcome aboard

Answer 2

Your not really supposed to wear your uniform out and around after duty hours. If your home on leave I wouldn't wear it you have been released from duty and are not on duty orders. Nobody really ever says anything about it but it is somewhat against the rules. In my opinion it looks stupid and makes it look like your fishing for compliments. I dont like to wear my uniform in public after duty hours.

Answer 3

Yes - you're only allowed to make short trips in public however.  Like to stop at a gas station for gas is fine.  Walking around the mall and going in and out of the Buckle, Victoria's Secret, Express, and carrying shopping bags is not authorized.

Answer 4

If you have only completed BCT then you CANNOT wear your ACUs. For soldiers in AIT, civilian colths are the only authorized dress for public. However, once you have finished AIT, you may where the uniform in public. But that is usually only on work days. I mean seriously, would you really put your ACUs on during the weekend.

Also, wearing your uniform at airports is highly discouraged for security reasons, but not unauthorized.

Answer 5

im 99% sure its only BDUs that cannot be worn in public, i may be wrong though

Answer 6

YES, if you are in the army OF COURSE you can.

You may get in trouble if you are not in the army/ by impersonation of a government soldier.

just like you can't have a police uniform if you are not a cop.

Answer 7

You are only allowed to wear ACU during normal work hours off post, unless your on official business. If you're caught off post wearing ACU after duty hours you will be subject to UCMJ action. Hope that answer your question.

Army Strong !!!

HOOAH

Answer 8

The answer is no - unless you have a good reason to wear your ACUs.

The ACU is a combat - work uniform.  Sporting it at the mall and shopping while wearing it is not combat nor work.

If I were you, I'd let my character, my integrity and my bearing tell others that I am in the Army.  The uniform does not make the man!!

Answer 9

why would you want to be in acu's in the first place if you dont have to? its pointless, draws unwanted attention, and is uncalled for unless like its been stated that you are just gassing up your car. The last thing i want is to be at the wrong place at the wrong time and be in acu's. people will recognize if you are in the service regardless, mainly how you present yourself and your haicut. Then who's to say you wont run into a higher-enlisted person out of uniform ie; an officer and you are showing no bearing whatsoever. eff that, i like to be worry free. Ive seen soldiers out in public act dumb and im in civies just observing.  

Answer 10

You can wear it in public but you must continue to wear it the RIGHT way, as in you being clean shaved, proper haircut, no jewelery, headgear outdoors, no sunglasses indoors without a profile, proper patches, no Bluetooth in your ear, etc.  Also, you are not authorized to drink alcohol or go inside establishments that primarily serve alcohol in ACUs.  Showing affection in uniform (kissing, holding children, etc.) is unauthorized but usually overlooked.  Also, you can't wear your uniform while supporting any political event in favor of a certain candidate.  Look at the AR 670-1 for all of the rules.