The U.S. Army is considering bringing back an iconic uniform from its past – the pinks and greens. First introduced in the 1920s, the pinks and greens were the service uniform worn by Army officers and NCOs up until the 1950s, when they were phased out in favor of the current Army Green Service Uniform. However, with the Army preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday in 2026, bringing back a classic uniform from the past could be a way to celebrate the occasion. There has been much debate around the potential pros and cons of returning to pinks and greens, with strong opinions on both sides. This article will examine the background behind the iconic pinks and greens uniform, look at the arguments for and against its return, and analyze whether the Army is likely to bring it back in the next few years.
Background on the Army pinks and greens uniform
The Army pinks and greens uniform has a long and distinguished history. It was first introduced in the early 1920s as a service uniform for officers and senior NCOs. The name came from its distinct color scheme – a khaki coat paired with light green trousers or skirt. It replaced older blue and white dress uniforms, providing a more practical and comfortable option for daily wear. The pinks and greens were worn for office work, public engagements, and informal events. They were not intended for field use or combat deployment.
The uniform became symbolic of the Army during World War II, with iconic figures like Eisenhower and Patton wearing pinks and greens. Officers and NCOs prided themselves on their smart, professional appearance in the uniform. It gave a sense of heritage and tradition to the Army during a time of massive growth and change. By the end of the war, almost every senior NCO and officer in the Army owned a set of pinks and greens.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1920 | Pinks and greens first introduced |
| 1926 | Officially named Army Green service uniform |
| 1939-1945 | Heavily worn by officers and NCOs in WWII |
| 1954 | Army announces plans to phase out pinks and greens |
| 1956 | Final pinks and greens uniform issued |
However, in the early 1950s, the Army decided to move away from pinks and greens. The thick wool material was hot and uncomfortable in warmer climates. Maintaining such tailored uniforms was expensive. And some wanted a more modern, streamlined look. The Army began issuing a new Army Green uniform in 1956, which completely replaced pinks and greens by 1960. For six decades since, the green service uniform has been the Army’s signature look. But now, bringing back pinks and greens is under consideration once more.
Arguments for bringing back the pinks and greens
Many voices within the Army have expressed support for a return to the pinks and greens uniform in some form. There are several main arguments put forward:
Heritage and tradition
With the Army’s 250th birthday approaching, pinks and greens would be a way to celebrate the Army’s distinguished history. The uniform calls back to key eras like WWII and evokes a sense of tradition. This could help inspire today’s soldiers with the service’s legacy.
Professional, soldierly appearance
Many argue that pinks and greens present a more professional and soldierly look than the current Army service uniform. Troops would have greater pride in their appearance, boosting morale and discipline. It provides a clear visual distinction from combat uniforms.
Recruiting appeal
The iconic, classic uniform could help spark interest in joining the Army. Photographs of officers in pinks and greens are still used in recruiting materials. The distinctive look stands out from other service branches.
Morale booster
Bringing back such a well-regarded uniform from history would be broadly popular with Army troops. It would provide a sense of elite status for those able to wear the uniform.
Arguments against bringing back the pinks and greens
There are also several counter-arguments put forward by those opposed to the return of the pinks and greens uniform:
Cost and practicality
Issuing an all-new service uniform to hundreds of thousands of troops would be enormously expensive. The tailored coats and trousers would also be more expensive to maintain than the current uniforms. More uniforms means greater cost.
Loss of tradition
To some, bringing back an obsolete uniform breaks Army tradition. The service uniform has been the standard for over 60 years – this is the modern Army tradition, which should be upheld.
Different requirements
The thick woolen pinks and greens were suitable for office duties, but not for modern field service. A complex mix of uniforms
