Cammies and Training Question

[Marxman]

I've heard many differing views on wearing military (specifically Marine) attire ranging from never wear them to only wear with permission to do what you want - all from Marines. When I finish my schooling (degree) I'd like to apply for OCS, and I have every intention of joining no matter what, come hell or high water.

I know the law regarding impersonation, and I have no wish to impersonate a Marine; however, I bought a full set of cammies solely for training a while ago and I haven't used them at all out of respect. I have loved the fit and comfort of the uniform since I was a boy (and knew nothing of impersonation, only of eager imitation and hopeful dreams), they're the best clothing I've ever worn, they're extremely durable, and I would like to use them while running drills. I understand the uniform is more than simple clothing, and my first and foremost consideration is respect. I talked to a couple Marines who said that they would be fine with me using them for training, or as long as I promised to join up. I've talked to a couple Marines that said it was a touchy subject and to talk to someone else.

So, finally my question is this: can I wear my cammies with NO insignia, badges, rank, or anything for training on a private range with nobody in the immediate vicinity? A couple considerations are:

I will not pose as a Marine, or attempt in any way to dishonor or disrespect our Marines or the USMC.

I am actively attempting to practice and hone my skills so that I might be a better recruit.

I am sorry if its been covered before, and I don't mind being a FNG as long it keeps me from disrespecting our Marines. Thank you in advance, and to our veterans and active duty thank you for your service.

[Requiem]

I will not pose as a Marine, or attempt in any way to dishonor or disrespect our Marines or the USMC.

I am actively attempting to practice and hone my skills so that I might be a better recruit.

I am sorry if its been covered before, and I don't mind being a FNG as long it keeps me from disrespecting our Marines. Thank you in advance, and to our veterans and active duty thank you for your service.

It sounds like you're planning on joining soon... why would you buy a pair of cammies before you left for boot camp when you know they're gonna issue you some there?

[rromeo]

Yes, you may wear any uniform item as long as all insignia are removed.

[develown]

I'm not a marine. However, I do work with quite a few; but as long as you don’t claim to be a marine I would imagine you can.

That being said, the Navy and marines keep an interesting view on the wear of their uniform by stating that "it is not suitable for the civilian environment" or something along those lines. IE, they can’t wear their uniform off duty. However, the army and air force have a different view being that we can wear our uniform off duty as long as we don’t participate in things such as political protests, ETC.

My advice, wear them. If your serious about signing up than once you sign up you wont be able to legally wear them in your free time. So take advantage while you’re not subject to the UCMJ.

[The Director]

No insignia or name tapes = not a uniform.

Wear away.

[Grassninja]

So, finally my question is this: can I wear my cammies with NO insignia, badges, rank, or anything for training on a private range with nobody in the immediate vicinity?

If this is the case, who's going to notice you anyways?

[VictorFranko]

To the OP:
Train like you expect to fight for your life.
If you want to bet your life on a pair of swim trunks, a wife beater t-shirt and sandals, that's your choice, train that way.
Me? I train with the equipment I think will save me and mine.
It's not about the color or camo pattern, it's about the benefit your choice of clothing and equipment will give you.

[kwest10]

"Technically" no. The USMC digi cammies have a repeating EGA in the pattern.

[Tom Slick]

A few years ago when all branches wore BDU's, so did everyone else, and they were sold everywhere tacticool and surplus gear was sold. Times are no different now; no insignias = not a uniform.

[Marxman]

Thank you all for your responses. Requiem, I'm working through college right now so joining up is a couple years off - but I'm definitely joining. Grassninja, the reason I ask is still out of respect - it may sound stupid but if I thought I was doing wrong by wearing them even without anyone noticing I'd take them off.

[phroggunner]

No nametapes, no rank insignia, nothing to worry about.

For the sake of clarity, appropriate uniforms (Service uniform and Dress Blue C and D) are authorized out in town. Cammies are a field uniform and are not to be worn off base. Marines are authorized to commute to and from work in cammies, but cannot leave their vehicle unless it is an emergency (medical, car accident, vehicle breakdown, etc.)

[bodyarmorguy27]

You need to talk to a Marine officer recruiter. A lot of guys do their OCS while on summer break from college, their junior and senior years, I think. It is very competitive for officer slots.

[Marxman]

You need to talk to a Marine officer recruiter. A lot of guys do their OCS while on summer break from college, their junior and senior years, I think. It is very competitive for officer slots.

The Platoon Leaders courses are designed for students in college over the summer, and I was planning on going through the Officer Candidates Course but the timing/availability factors never dawned on me. Now I get to decide if I want a summer or not! Thanks.

Thank you to all our servicemen, servicewomen, veterans, those who gave their lives, and their families this Memorial Day.

[HskrVern]

"Technically" no. The USMC digi cammies have a repeating EGA in the pattern.

This ^^^^ I am not even a Marine and I wont buy the digi cammies for my father in law because of the EGA being apart of the actual pattern.

[todd2968]

Yes, you may wear any uniform item as long as all insignia are removed.

+1 as long as no insignias are present should be fine