A Note about Uniforms and Events

In some of the epistles that have been bouncing around concerning boat shows, et al, it has been suggested that wearing the uniform may not be appropriate.  Balderdash!

We are members of the UNIFORMED U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.  The uniform for boat shows and similar events is the prerogative of the senior Coast Guard or Coast Guard Auxiliary officer in the area.  When an individual is designated as the event coordinator by a DSO/ADSO, Division Commander, or Flotilla Commander, that person in consultation with gold and silver leadership will set the uniform.

Acceptable uniforms for events (boat shows) include ODU and Tropical Blue Long.  Note that since Undress Blue has been replaced by ODU, Undress Blue is no longer recommended.  If active duty members are participating in the event, Auxiliary members should wear the same uniform as worn by active duty people.  No matter what uniform is selected, the uniform should be clean, pressed, shoes shined, all insignia sewn or mounted properly, etc.  When life jackets are worn at events, it is permissible to remove the ODU blouse.

Please note that the forthcoming edition of the Auxiliary manual will state that ODU’s are acceptable for wear when dealing with the public.
Auxiliary ODU policy will be the same as the policy for wearing ODU’s by the active duty force.

Thomas Nunes
Deputy Chief, Public Affairs Department
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary