The U.S. Army recently brought back an iconic uniform that was once worn by soldiers in World War II and the Korean War. This uniform, known as Army pinks and greens, has a history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some quick answers about Army pinks and greens:
When were Army pinks and greens first introduced?
Army pinks and greens were first introduced in the early 20th century, around 1920. They replaced older olive drab wool uniforms worn by soldiers during World War I. The distinctive pink trousers and green jackets became iconic symbols of the U.S. Army during World War II and the Korean War in the 1940s and 1950s.
Why are they called “pinks and greens”?
The uniform gets its nickname from the contrasting pinkish hue of the trousers and green shade of the jacket. The pinkish color comes from the khaki shade used for the pants while the green comes from the olive drab shade of the coat. This distinctive two-tone color scheme led to the nickname “pinks and greens.”
What was the purpose of bringing back the uniform?
The Army decided to bring back the pinks and greens uniform in 2018 to provide a formal dress uniform that connects today’s soldiers to their heritage and history. The iconic pinks and greens hearken back to the days of the Greatest Generation and America’s victories in WWII and Korea. The Army felt this classic, professional uniform could boost esprit de corps.
When did the Army start wearing pinks and greens again?
The Army began phasing in the pinks and greens uniform again in 2020, with a target roll-out completion date of 2028. Enlisted soldiers were given priority to receive the new uniform first. Female and male versions of the uniform were designed and tested. As of 2022, over 100,000 sets of Army greens had been issued.
What are the components of the pinks and greens uniform?
The revived Army greens uniform consists of:
– An olive green belted jacket
– Light brown khaki trousers
– A khaki shirt
– Brown leather oxfords
– Olive green garrison cap
– Khaki necktie
– Brown leather belt
There are also olive green service caps and sweaters that can be worn optionally. The colors match the original WWII era pinks and greens.
How is the new version different from the old pinks and greens?
While maintaining a classic look, the modern Army greens uniform was updated in several ways:
– The fabric is higher quality than the old wool version
– The uniform fits closer to the body for better appearance
– Trouser cargo pockets were removed to streamline the look
– The jacket length was shortened for a modern fit
– There are both male and female versions designed for proper fit
– Soldiers now wear brown leather oxfords rather than brogue shoes
Who wears the Army pinks and greens uniform?
The Army pinks and greens are authorized as a formal dress uniform for all soldiers to wear. Enlisted soldiers received the uniform first in 2020, with a focus on recruiting battalions. In 2021, junior officers were given the uniform next. The Army expects the uniform to be issued to all active duty, reserve, and National Guard soldiers for special occasions by 2028.
What are the regulations for wearing pinks and greens?
Army Regulations 670-1 governs the proper wear of the pinks and greens uniform. The coat is buttoned and belted at all times when worn. Trousers must be hemmed to avoid cuffing. Only authorized accessories like belts, ties, shirts, and caps may be worn. Correct placement of ribbons, name plates, and insignia is mandated.
How much does the new pinks and greens uniform cost?
The total cost of the Army greens uniform is about $400 per set. Because enlisted soldiers are issued the uniform, they typically do not have to pay unless they want additional sets. For officers who purchase the uniform, the jacket costs approximately $200, trousers $100, shirt $30, hat $115, and shoes $75.
What occasions can the pinks and greens be worn for?
Army Regulation 670-1 allows the green dress uniform to be worn for:
– Formal occasions like balls, banquets, weddings, formal dinners
– Office business when dress uniforms are appropriate
– On duty when uniform of the day is dictated as dress uniform
– Off duty for social occasions after retreat
– When traveling in an official capacity on public transportation
It is not normally worn for field duty or combat operations. Parades, ceremonies, and official events are common wear occasions.
Can the uniform be customized or altered?
The pinks and greens must be worn to regulation standards. The only alterations allowed are hemming trousers and taking in or letting out coats and shirts up to 2 inches total. No modifications like adding pockets, rolling sleeves, or dying the uniform are authorized. Some customization like service stripes and insignia are allowed if regulations are followed.
Conclusion
The Army’s pinks and greens dress uniform provides a way to connect today’s soldiers to the Greatest Generation of WWII and Korea. The iconic two-tone green and pink khaki look was brought back in 2020 to give soldiers a professional, formal uniform that represents their heritage. Worn for special occasions, the revived Army greens follow a new design with a classic appearance. Over the next few years, it will become a standard sight across all units of the Army.
Here is an example table comparing the old and new pinks and greens uniforms:
| Component | Old Uniform | New Uniform |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | Wool | High-tech synthetic |
| Fit | Loose baggy fit | Trimmer, tailored fit |
| Coat Length | Long, below the knee | Shorter, above the knee |
| Trousers | Two cargo pockets | No cargo pockets |
| Shoes | Brogues | Brown leather oxfords |
