News

Blue Monday doesn't have to be so blue

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jake Chappelle
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Most Reservists don't work at McChord on Monday, and the ones that do aren't used to wearing blues. However, in October the chief of staff of the Air Force mandated that Airmen wear their blue uniform each Monday. 

According to Master Sgt. Todd Lamphere, first sergeant of the 446th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, wearing blues once a week has its advantages. 

"I think the concept of wearing the blues uniform takes us back to our heritage," said Sergeant Lamphere. "It's real easy to wear the battle dress uniform everyday and get used to it. Wearing blues every Monday reminds me of the pride of the Air Force." 

Proper wear of the uniform is important when keeping that pride. Sergeant Lamphere refers to Air Force Instruction 36-2903. 

"According to the AFI, men should ensure that the name tag is centered on the edge of the right pocket of the shirt," said Sergeant Lamphere. "Women center the name tag on the right side, even with to 1 ½ inches higher or lower than the first exposed button of the shirt." 

Ribbons are optional, but if you wear them you wear them all. For men, they should be resting on the edge of the left pocket like a bookshelf. Specialty badges are worn ½ inch above the ribbons. If you're not wearing ribbons, then the badge should be ½ inch above the top edge of the pocket. 

For women, the ribbons should be on the left side parallel with the ground, said Sergeant Lamphere. 

"Align the bottom of the ribbons with the bottom of the name tag," said Sergeant Lamphere. "A tie tab is mandatory for long and short-sleeve shirts. 

Sergeant Lamphere believes proper maintenance of the uniform is as important as the proper wearing of it. 

"The moment I get home, I take off my name tag, badge, and ribbons and send my blues to the dry cleaners," said Sergeant Lamphere. 

Another way to stay within regulations and be comfortable is through alterations. 

"Make sure your pants are properly tailored or altered and that your shirts are the correct size," said Sergeant Lamphere. 

"In order to stay up to date on any uniform regulation updates, refer to AFI 36-2903 or refer to www.e-publishing.com. 

Sergeant Lamphere links the pride of the uniform with the pride of the Air Force Reserve. 

"Have pride in your blues uniform because this is why you're here and this is what we represent."