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Great Sage of the Sea
Posts: 557
| Subject: Troops Speaking Out Against New Working Uniform (NWU)
Troops Speaking Out Against New Working Uniform (NWU)
NWU, RULES GET IT WRONG
As a Navy commander operating “behind enemy lines” as an instructor at the Air Force Academy, my current assignment allows me to insert deck-plate leadership, the chiefs’ mess and global presence in the context of our contribution to the joint fight. I take great pride in exposing future Air Force officers to Navy and Marine Corps methods, heritage, culture and tradition as a contrast to their service norms.
I applauded former Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Joe Campa’s complete revision of CPO fitness reports to start evaluating on what a chief should be.
Not only do we do things differently in the naval services, but I can usually make a solid case that we do it better. This is not the case with the recent uniform changes [“NWU uproar,” Jan 5].
Each service has struggled with the adoption of new uniforms and has failed to learn from the others’ mistakes. Jointness should not imply a lowest common denominator mentality. The three most obvious failures [of the uniform] go well beyond financial, physical and fashion missteps and serve as indictors of the recent atrophy of our cherished culture and traditions: ¦
Why adopt a camouflage uniform that only allows you to blend into the environment when you fall overboard? A camouflaged working uniform that supposedly hides paint spots better than utilities is counter to the warrior ethos that we should be instilling in our sailors.
¦ The more restrictive wear rules for the Navy Working Uniform demonstrate a senior leadership that is out of touch with the average sailor. Loosened wear restrictions were part of the initial sales pitch made by leadership — policy flip-flops are bound to be met with a backlash. Other service members proudly (and smartly) wear their NWU-equivalent uniform when commuting to and from work and even on official travel; it is a source of pride in their service. If an individual sailor ’s appearance is not up to standards, a little intrusive leadership can take care of that. Speaking of which ...
¦ The khaki shirt being introduced for E-6 and below should be an affront to every member of the current khaki leadership. It erodes one of the most visible and enduring symbols that makes our service unique — the transition to the rank of chief petty officer. This stylistic change will have operational ramifications and sets back Campa’s efforts to reaffirm the chiefs’ proud and proper role.
What is at risk here is not merely a fiscally and fashion-flawed social experiment but an abandonment of centuries of tradition and heritage. It may be too late to stop
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Old Salt
Posts: 402
| Subject: RE: Troops Speaking Out Against New Working Uniform (NWU)
You would think that a working coverall would be better for paint duty. Maybe something disposable and recyclable. |
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Master and Commander
Posts: 1814
Location: Boydton, Virginia | Subject: RE: Troops Speaking Out Against New Working Uniform (NWU)
I was down at Norfolk last weekend and took the Navy Base tour. There were a couple cute female type sailors there and I struck up a conversation about the new uniform. (They had yet to convert). One said that it was going to be very expensive, and the uniform allotment would not cover it. I would have asked more questions but they were busy ( and my CINCHSE was giving me the eye).
BTW, if anyone has thought of taking that tour, save your time and money.... they only take you by a couple piers and then onto the base to see the Admirals quarters and the administrative bldgs. Did see the GHW Bush from a distance, but no subs.
As far as my opinion on the uniforms, why doesn't the Navy leave well enough alone.... if it ain't broke, don't fix it!! You would think that the service branch most steeped in tradition would realize that.
Steamboat sends |
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Great Sage of the Sea
Posts: 561
Location: Belleview, Fl | Subject: RE: Troops Speaking Out Against New Working Uniform (NWU)
Steamboat,
had I known you were down in this area I would have been more then happy to take you to see the boats, let me know the next time you are in the area and I will see what I can do  |
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Master and Commander
Posts: 1814
Location: Boydton, Virginia | Subject: RE: Troops Speaking Out Against New Working Uniform (NWU)
Darrin,
Wow!! That sounds GREAT! I have a sister that lives in Yorktown that I visit semi-occasionally. I live in Mecklenburg Co., about 150 miles due west of you.
I am looking forward to meeting you at Ron's funeral.
Green Board,
Steamboat sends |
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Troops Speaking Out Against New Working Uniform (NWU)
