Rules for a Marine Uniform

Members of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) have rules about how their uniforms must be worn. The Marine uniforms are distinctive uniforms that are a source of pride and honor for those that wear it. Both federal law and the Department of Navy mandate who can wear the uniform and how it must be worn.

Authorized Personnel

Only in-service Marines are allowed to wear the USMC uniforms. Former members of the Marine Corps who are not active duty are still authorized to wear the uniform during military funerals, weddings, parades and memorial services. Marine veterans are allowed to wear their uniforms, only if they have been discharged honorably. Marines can only wear insignia of the highest grade or rank they reached in the service before they separated.

Exceptions

Actors portraying USMC members in a film or a theatrical production may wear Marine uniforms. Actors can wear the uniforms, but they cannot disgrace or bring a bad name upon the USMC. Former Marines who have been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor can wear their uniform whenever they choose to, regardless of the event.

Approved Locations

USMC states that uniforms can only be worn under certain circumstances and are strictly reserved for those in the course of military duties. No member of the USMC (retired, active or reserve) can wear the uniform to a partisan, religious or economic event, unless it is an official USMC event or religious service. USMC members cannot wear the uniform during job interviews, business deals or to political events.