News Search

319th ABW commander rescinds ‘Blues Monday’ following CSAF decision

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ashley N. Taylor
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N. D. --  Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. Mark A. Welsh III, has rescinded the policy on the wear of blues on Mondays and delegated the decision on uniform wear to wing commanders.

Col. Tim Bush, 319th Air Base Wing commander, has mandated the Air Force blues uniform is no longer required to be worn on Mondays here. Per this guidance, the uniform of the day for Air Force personnel assigned to Grand Forks AFB is the Airman battle uniform, flight suit or equivalent.

This unexpected change in uniform policy has generated positive reactions from local Airmen.

"It is more convenient due to the climate we have here because it lowers the risk of illness," said Airman 1st Class Micah Thomas, 319th Logistics Readiness Squadron material manager. "We need our Airmen in their best shape possible."

"Financially, it is easier to deal with and it saves time; I am able to focus on other activities besides dry-cleaning, ironing, and placing accoutrements" added Airman 1st Class Austin Denigan, 319th Air Base Wing Honor Guard.

The new uniform policy does not mean Airmen will stop wearing their dress blues altogether. Airmen participating in ceremonial events such as promotion ceremonies, award presentations or special observances will wear the Air Force blue uniform throughout the year as deemed appropriate by commanders.

Despite the new policy, military personnel are reminded of their responsibilities in accordance with Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel, to ensure all uniform items, to include blues, are maintained in a clean and serviceable condition at all times, correct in fit, design and specifications.