Can I wear ribbons on my suit for a parade?

SPC Matthew Gebhart — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 20:32:51 -0400

I'm escorting my father who served in the Korean war in a Memorial day parade. I was told I could wear my ribbons on my suit. Question is can I wear my medals, my beret, and my jump boots with my civilian suit? Thanks for any info i could get.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Apr 16 at 2018 10:17 PM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 22:17:23 -0400

If you are no longer in the military and you aren't throwing on a full uniform, there is no regulation that says that you cannot wear those things. I would just ensure that you wear everything correctly. With the medals, I advise wearing mini medals just because of the weight on a suit jacket but you can go for full size if you like. I pull out my medals for certain occasions like veterans day and certain professional functions.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2018 3:02 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 03:02:40 -0400

As SGT Joseph Gunderson said, you can wear all of that IF you are no longer in the service. If you are reserve or NG or active, you cannot. If you are out, then you can do whatever you want. I personally wouldn't wear my beret or boots with a civilian suit. Looks like you are trying to draw attention to yourself. The ribbons are enough to make a statement without looking like an attention hound.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 17 at 2018 9:18 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 09:18:26 -0400

NO,NO- if you are going to wear all that then just wear the entire uniform. I can get mini ribbons or mini- medals and wear them with the beret

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2018 9:47 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 09:47:14 -0400

Check into miniatures...if you're no longer affiliated, you'll get good mileage out of 'em.

Personally, I'd not do the beret and jump boots...I'd go full uniform if that's your pleasure.

Response by SGT David T. made Apr 17 at 2018 1:03 PM

SGT David T. — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 13:03:55 -0400

Assuming you are shielded by the power of mighty DD-214, you can wear whatever you want. Although boots and beret might look silly in a civilian suit.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2018 1:48 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 13:48:23 -0400

Wearing ribbons on your suit is fine. Do not wear your boots and beret.