GDG- Army Blue (II)

[James Cameron]

<< I for one will not miss the post World War II
uniform combinations. A real low point in the
history of US Army attire (with the exception of
the short life of the Ike jacket).

Now we just need to get rid of the berets for all
except SPECIAL FORCES (and OPS) and the new
pajama-like fatigues/battle dress which seem to
be worn for just about every occasion.  As a
general officer said to me - "George C. Marshall
went all through World War II wearing a tie".  >>

For officers in particular, the Ike jacket with "pink" trousers was a very 
nice looking uniform.

I think the beret for general issue (i.e., other than Special Forces) is a 
rather silly affectation.  If it's meant to boost the morale of non-Special 
Forces troops, they should find another way.

The ACU is probably a fine combat uniform, and from what I've read, it's 
camo pattern is more effective than the older BDU's.  But it does look a bit 
floppy and casual for day to day, non-combat wear, even compared to the old 
fatigues.  Still, a non-dress, fatigue style uniform is needed, and as far 
as looks go I suppose it's more a matter of getting used to it than anything 
else.

Interesting how things change.  I doubt most people today, including those 
who have worn it, realize that the jacket of the Class A uniform was 
originally intended to be a field service uniform, for combat use.  That 
went by the board when the first field jackets began to appear in 1941, but 
US troops could otherwise have ended up in combat in what we now think of as 
suit jackets.

Jeff Davis hats would indeed make an interisting replacement for the beret. 
Although I imagine the Cavalry would want to hang on to their Stetsons!


Jim Cameron