Air Force's latest Virtual Uniform Board results released

Uniform changes announced

The Air Force recently released the results of its 98th Virtual Uniform Board. Among other changes and updates, Battle Dress Uniform and Airman Battle Uniform trousers must be tucked into boots and present a bloused appearance at all times. Boot laces may be wrapped around the boot and tucked in. For more in-depth information, go to http://www.peterson.af.mil/shared/media/document/afd-090612-129.doc. (Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Ray Bowden)

Published June 16, 2009
By Tech. Sgt. Ray Bowden
21st Space Wing Public Affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Peterson Airmen will be tweaking their uniforms and overall dress and appearance as the Air Force recently released the results of its 98th Virtual Uniform Board, which convened in 2008 and consisted of Airmen from all major commands and functional communities.

While most of the changes are slight, there are numerous adjustments Peterson Airmen will find themselves making to maintain uniform compliance.

"Our Airmen will have quite a few questions, so I expect the NCOs to be familiar with these changes, educate their people and lead by example," said Chief Master Sgt. Tim Omdal, 21st Space Wing command chief. "We owe it to ourselves and to the profession of arms to wear our uniforms properly and with pride."

One noticeable change, effective immediately, is that Battle Dress Uniform and Airman Battle Uniform trousers must be tucked into boots and present a bloused appearance at all times. Boot laces may be wrapped around the boot and tucked in.

Other changes include allowing Airmen walking in uniform to use a cell-phone while walking - within certain constraints - and the elimination of wear of metal rank by enlisted Airmen on the lightweight blue jacket. According to the uniform board, the only enlisted rank to be worn on the jacket is the sewn on chevron insignia worn on the sleeves.

All changes recommended by the Virtual Uniform Board were approved by the Air Force Chief of Staff and will be reflected in updated versions of Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel. For more in-depth information, go to http://www.peterson.af.mil/shared/media/document/afd-090612-129.doc.