OutServe & SLDN Issue Uniform Guidance for 9/18 NYC Event
September 20th marks the one-year anniversary of the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law. No longer are our gay and lesbian men and women in uniform forced to serve in silence or risk being discharged for simply being who they are.
To commemorate the day, SLDN, OutServe, and others will be hosting celebrations around the country, and we expect that service members will attend many of these celebrations.
This will be kicked off on September 18, 2012 with a celebration aboard the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum to honor the career of Admiral Mike Mullen, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, as well as ALL our nation's brave service members. The proceeds of the event will benefit SLDN. Service members are encouraged to attend and follow the following guidance:
- Service members speaking as part of the formal program (you would know if you are) are prohibited by regulation from wearing the uniform. Civilian attire is required.
- All other service members, including those on active duty and retirees, may attend the event as a spectator and wear their uniform if they so choose.
- Service members attending the event on orders must confirm whether they may wear the uniform at the event with the command that issued the orders to attend.
- Veterans (who are not retired) may wear their uniform.
We look forward to an exciting celebration! Hope to see you there.
UPDATE:
A number of service members attending Celebrating Our Heroes on September 18, 2012 have asked for clarification regarding which uniform is appropriate for the event. The following guidance sets forth SLDN’s recommended uniform selection.
United States Army
• The Army Service Uniform (ASU), or equivalent Class A (“greens”) if you do not have the ASU.
United States Navy
• For Officers, Warrant Officers or Enlisted E-7 and above: Service Khaki or Service Dress Summer Whites
• For Enlisted E-6 and below: Service Dress Summer Whites
United States Air Force
• Service Dress Uniform
United States Marine Corps
• Blue Dress “B” (Despite the summer season, the Blue-White "B" is not appropriate for SNCOs and officers as there will be junior Marines and NCOs in attendance in uniform.)
United States Coast Guard
• Service Dress Blue
All uniforms should be worn with appropriate ribbons and badges, if permitted.
09-04-12 By David McKean, SLDN Legal Director |
