USMC Corporal Dress Blues Uniform Guide

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) is renowned for its impeccable uniforms, and the Corporal Dress Blues uniform is a staple of this tradition. This iconic uniform is a symbol of excellence, honor, and pride for Marines who have earned the right to wear it. As a guide, we will walk you through the history, components, and proper wear of the USMC Corporal Dress Blues uniform, ensuring that you understand the significance and nuances of this esteemed attire.

History of the Dress Blues Uniform

The Dress Blues uniform has its roots in the early 19th century, when Marines began wearing a formal, dark blue uniform with red trim. Over the years, the design has undergone several changes, with the current version being introduced in the 1950s. The uniform is a testament to the USMC’s rich history and tradition of excellence. The Corporal Dress Blues uniform, in particular, is reserved for non-commissioned officers (NCOs) who have achieved the rank of Corporal, signifying their leadership role and dedication to the Corps.

Components of the Corporal Dress Blues Uniform

The Corporal Dress Blues uniform consists of several key components, each with its own specific guidelines for wear:

• Coat: The coat is a dark blue, single-breasted garment with a standing collar and a scarlet lining. It features a distinctive eagle, globe, and anchor (EGA) emblem on the sleeves, which signifies the Marine’s branch of service.
• Trousers: The trousers are made of the same dark blue material as the coat and feature a scarlet stripe running down the outside of each leg.
• Shirt and Tie: A white, starched dress shirt with a wing-tip collar is worn with a black bow tie.
• Belt and Buckle: A white web belt with a gold-colored buckle is worn around the waist.
• Shoes: Highly polished, black leather oxfords are worn with the uniform.
• Cover: A white dress cover, also known as a “barracks cover,” is worn on the head.
• Ribbons and Medals: Corporals may wear authorized ribbons and medals on their uniform, which are displayed on the left side of the coat.

Proper Wear of the Corporal Dress Blues Uniform

To ensure that the uniform is worn correctly, follow these guidelines:

• Fit: The uniform should fit snugly, with the coat and trousers breaking slightly on the shoes.
• Coat: The coat should be buttoned, with the top button undone.
• Trousers: The trousers should be worn with the belt at the natural waistline.
• Shirt and Tie: The shirt should be starched and worn with the bow tie properly tied.
• Belt and Buckle: The belt should be worn snugly, with the buckle centered.
• Shoes: Shoes should be highly polished and worn with the laces tied in a bow.
• Cover: The cover should be worn squarely on the head, with the brim parallel to the ground.
• Ribbons and Medals: Ribbons and medals should be worn in the authorized order, with the most senior award on the right.

Inspection and Maintenance

To maintain the integrity of the uniform, regular inspections and maintenance are essential. This includes:

• Pressing: The uniform should be pressed regularly to maintain its crisp, sharp appearance.
• Cleaning: The uniform should be dry-cleaned only, with any stains or spots addressed promptly.
• Polishing: Shoes should be polished regularly to maintain their high-gloss finish.
• Ribbons and Medals: Ribbons and medals should be inspected regularly to ensure they are properly aligned and secure.

Conclusion

The USMC Corporal Dress Blues uniform is a revered symbol of the Marine Corps’ tradition of excellence and pride. By understanding the history, components, and proper wear of this uniform, Marines can ensure that they represent their branch of service with dignity and honor. Remember, the uniform is a reflection of the individual Marine and the Corps as a whole, and it is essential to maintain its integrity and appearance at all times.

In conclusion, the USMC Corporal Dress Blues uniform is a iconic symbol of the Marine Corps’ tradition of excellence and pride. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, Marines can ensure that they wear their uniform with dignity and honor, reflecting the values of the Corps and upholding its rich history and tradition.