Understanding the Army Service Uniform (ASU)
The Army Service Uniform (ASU) is the standard uniform worn by soldiers in non-field, non-deployed environments. It is also worn for formal occasions such as parades, change of command ceremonies, and official visits. The ASU is a symbol of professionalism and pride, and soldiers are expected to wear it with dignity and respect. In this guide, we will walk you through the proper wear and appearance of the ASU, including the various components, accessories, and grooming standards.
Components of the ASU
The ASU consists of the following components:
- Coat: The coat is the main garment of the ASU and is worn with the shirt and tie.
- Shirt: The shirt is a white, long-sleeved dress shirt with a stiff front and French cuffs.
- Tie: The tie is a black, silk necktie with a subtle sheen.
- Trousers: The trousers are matching the coat and are worn with a strip of gold braid or stripe.
- Shoes: The shoes are black, oxford-style dress shoes with a polished finish.
- Belt: The belt is a black, web belt with a silver or gold buckle.
- Headgear: The headgear is a garrison cap or a beret, depending on the unit’s dress policy.
- Badges and Insignia: Badges and insignia are worn on the coat and shirt to indicate rank, branch, and special skills.
Proper Wear of the ASU
Here are the general guidelines for wearing the ASU:
- The coat should be worn with the shirt and tie, with the sleeves rolled down and the cuffs fastened.
- The trousers should be worn with a strip of gold braid or stripe, and the belt should be worn with a silver or gold buckle.
- The shoes should be polished and worn with the laces tied in a neat bow.
- The headgear should be worn with the garrison cap or beret, depending on the unit’s dress policy.
- Badges and insignia should be worn on the coat and shirt, with the rank insignia on the sleeve and the branch insignia on the collar.
Accessories
The following accessories are authorized for wear with the ASU:
- Rank Insignia: Rank insignia are worn on the sleeve to indicate rank.
- Branch Insignia: Branch insignia are worn on the collar to indicate branch.
- Nameplate: A nameplate is worn on the right side of the coat to indicate the soldier’s name.
- Combat Badges: Combat badges are worn on the left side of the coat to indicate combat experience.
- Service Ribbons: Service ribbons are worn on the left side of the coat to indicate military service.
Grooming Standards
Soldiers are expected to maintain high grooming standards when wearing the ASU. Here are the guidelines:
- Hair: Hair should be neat and tidy, with no visible signs of wear or neglect.
- Facial Hair: Facial hair should be neatly trimmed and not exceed 1⁄4 inch in length.
- Nails: Nails should be clean and neatly trimmed.
- Uniform Cleanliness: The uniform should be clean and pressed, with no visible signs of wear or neglect.
Notes
👀 Note: Soldiers are responsible for ensuring their ASU is properly fitted and altered to meet the Army's standards.
💼 Note: The ASU is not authorized for wear in field or deployed environments.
Conclusion
The Army Service Uniform is a symbol of professionalism and pride, and soldiers are expected to wear it with dignity and respect. By following these guidelines, soldiers can ensure they are wearing the ASU correctly and with proper pride.
What is the purpose of the Army Service Uniform?
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The Army Service Uniform is worn for formal occasions such as parades, change of command ceremonies, and official visits.
What are the components of the ASU?
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The components of the ASU include the coat, shirt, tie, trousers, shoes, belt, headgear, and badges and insignia.
What are the grooming standards for the ASU?
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Soldiers are expected to maintain high grooming standards, including neat and tidy hair, facial hair, and nails, as well as a clean and pressed uniform.
