ACU Uniform Standards in the Army

The ACU (army combat uniform) is the standard dress of the United States army. It is now used in place of the battle dress uniform that was around from the 1980's to the mid 2000's. There are a few regulations when it comes to wearing an ACU.

Affiliation and Name Tape

These must be shown on the breast pocket of the army combat uniform. It must show the soldier’s name and the branch that they are associated with. Without having these, the uniform is basically useless on the base.

Tee Shirts and Belts

The only tee shirt color that is acceptable is tan or green depending on the branch regulations. Any other color is dismissed. Belts must be tan or black depending on the unit’s rules. Women must wear the belt on their right side, while men wear it on their left.

Insignias, Patches, and Combat Boots

The branches’ insignia must be next to the affiliation and name tape. The patch with the type of unit the soldier is in is on the left sleeve of the uniform. If a combat patch is given out as a reward, it is sewn onto the right sleeve. All special badges and the like are worn above or on the right breast pocket. Dog tags are also worn at all times around the neck for further identification. Combat boots must be worn at all types with the ACU, as it is part of the regulations. There are no exceptions to this rule unless it is due to injury.