Pink and greens refer to the iconic pink and green uniform worn by officers in the U.S. Army from the 1920s to the 1950s. The pink and green uniform has recently been reintroduced for Army officers and NCOs to wear for business or office wear. The distinctive pink and green color combination offers a way to connect today’s soldiers to the history and traditions of the Army.
History of Pink and Green Uniforms
The pink and green uniform has its origins in the late 1800s and early 1900s when Army officers began wearing more formal uniforms for parades, social events, and office work. The iconic pink and green uniform emerged in the 1920s as a service uniform for officers.
The distinctive color combination of a pink coat or shirt with green trousers or skirt was inspired by the red coats and dark pants worn by British officers. However, the U.S. Army adopted pink and green as the official colors to distinguish American officers from the British.
The Army’s pink and green service uniform became synonymous with officers and leadership through World War II. The below table outlines when the pink and green uniform was worn:
| Date Range | Pink and Green Uniform Use |
| 1900s-1920s | Emergence of pink & green uniform pieces |
| 1920s | Official adoption of pink & green service uniform |
| 1930s-1940s | Widespread wear during peacetime and WWII |
| 1950s | Phase out in favor of Army green uniform |
In the 1950s, the Army began shifting away from pink and greens in favor of a simplified green service uniform for all soldiers. The iconic pink and green uniform faded away for several decades.
Return of Army Pink and Greens
In 2018, the Army announced it would be bringing back pink and greens as an official service uniform, intended for wear in office settings, business engagements, formal events, and other special occasions.
The modernized pink and green uniform retains key elements that make it recognizable while incorporating newer materials and features. Key components include:
| Piece | Details |
| Coat | Single-breasted, pinkish-tan coat reminiscent of the original pink coat |
| Trousers | Green gabardine wool trousers with heritage brown shade |
| Shirt | Light green, dress shirt style |
| Accessories | Brown leather belt, light brown shoes and socks |
The Army began rolling out the new pinks and greens in 2020, first to current and retired general officers. In 2021, captains and above could purchase the uniform. By 2028, the Army expects to fully phase it in as an authorized uniform for all soldiers to wear when appropriate.
The pink and green comeback aims to inspire greater pride in the Army’s history and heritage. While Army Green service uniforms will still be worn in the field, pinks and greens provide a formal uniform that connects today’s soldiers to past generations.
Who Can Wear the Pink and Green Uniform?
The modern Army pink and green service uniform is authorized for the following soldiers:
– Commissioned officers: All officers from 2nd lieutenant to general may purchase and wear pinks and greens. Female officers may wear a skirt instead of slacks.
– Warrant officers: As commissioned officers, all warrant grades from WO1 to CW5 may wear the updated pink and green uniform.
– Enlisted soldiers: Sergeants Major, First Sergeants, and Master Sergeants are authorized to wear the Army pink and green service uniform.
– ROTC cadets: Cadets may be issued pinks and greens to wear at ROTC functions or when authorized by their Professor of Military Science.
– Retirees: Retired officers and NCOs eligible to wear the uniform are authorized to purchase and wear pinks and greens for appropriate events.
The below table summarizes who can wear pink and greens:
| Soldiers Authorized | Ranks/Positions Eligible |
| Commissioned officers | 2nd Lieutenant through General |
| Warrant officers | WO1 through CW5 |
| Enlisted | Sergeants Major, First Sergeants, Master Sergeants |
| Cadets | ROTC cadets |
| Retirees | Eligible retired officers and NCOs |
The pink and green uniform is optional for authorized soldiers to purchase and wear. As a service uniform, it is not currently issued to every new officer or NCO.
Wear Regulations for Pink and Greens
The Army has issued wear regulations to guide when and how to properly wear the pink and green service uniform. Key regulations include:
– Authorized for wear year-round for business or social occasions when wearing a service uniform is appropriate.
– Prohibited for field environments, deployments, combat missions, or daily office wear. Army green service uniforms are still standard for these contexts.
– Only authorized headgear includes the green service cap and black beret. No patches or insignia on the cap.
– Brown leather shoes, socks, belt, and gloves required as accessories.
– Ribbons centered above left pocket, nameplate above right pocket. Insignia and badges worn according to regulations.
– Conservative jewelry and accessories permitted for females but must be tasteful. No earrings for males.
– Commanders may further restrict or clarify wear regulations according to needs.
Proper wear and care for the uniform is important for projecting a professional military presence and preserving the legacy of the iconic Army pink and greens.
Reactions to the Return of Pink and Greens
The decision to bring back Army pink and green service uniforms was met with mixed reactions across the military community.
**Positive reactions:**
– Greater symbolic connection to Army history and heritage
– Distinctive uniform for formal and business occasions
– Option for variety beyond just Army greens
**Negative reactions:**
– Costly to roll out across the force
– Limited wear opportunities compared to versatile OCPs
– Potential backlash for overly formal or “fancy” uniform
Despite some skepticism, overall reactions from Army leaders, veterans, and soldiers have been largely positive. The uniform engenders nostalgia and pride in the Army’s traditions. Soldiers appreciate having the option for a formal uniform steeped in meaning.
Costs of Pink and Green Uniforms
One frequent criticism of the pink and green service uniform involved the costs of purchasing and tailoring the new uniforms. Here are some estimated costs to outfit soldiers in pinks and greens:
| Uniform Piece | Estimated Cost |
| Coat | $580 |
| Trousers | $190 |
| Shirt | $50 |
| Belt | $40 |
| Shoes | $100 |
| Hat | $140 |
| Insignia | $20 |
| Tailoring | $100-$200 |
| Total | $1,220-$1,320 |
At roughly $1,200-$1,300 per set, purchasing pink and greens represents a significant upfront investment for soldiers required to maintain multiple uniforms. Costs may limit some junior soldiers from acquiring them.
The Army has explored options to help defray costs. Ideas include a clothing allowance stipend, loans through the Central Issue Facility, and partnerships with military clothing suppliers. Spreading out costs over time can help make pink and greens more affordable long-term.
Significance of Pink and Green Uniforms
Beyond just a sharp new uniform, the return of Army pinks and greens carries deeper meaning for soldiers and veterans.
**Key aspects of what pinks and greens symbolize:**
– Pride in the Army’s distinguished history and legacy
– Appreciation for traditions that connect generations of soldiers
– Formal uniform suitable for occasions requiring professionalism and military bearing
– Option for visual distinction from other branches’ uniforms
– Morale boost from wearing an iconic, respected uniform
The reaction from World War II veterans upon seeing soldiers in modern pinks and greens has been extremely positive. The uniform immediately conjures up memories of their service.
While the Army is focused on the future, pinks and greens help strengthen its ties to the past. The uniforms keep traditions alive through visible symbols that instill pride and respect.
Conclusion
The Army’s decision to bring back iconic pink and green service uniforms after a 60+ year absence is about more than just fashion. The distinctive uniforms reconnect today’s soldiers to the history, heritage, and traditions that make the Army special. While maintaining a modernized force, pinks and greens provide visible continuity with the past. Their return underscores the Army’s respect for traditions that have shaped generations of soldiers. For officers and NCOs, wearing the iconic uniform is a meaningful privilege that comes with great professionalism and pride.