Do you believe that all Military Services should do away with the skirt and high heels for Female Service Members?

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 11:27:19 -0400

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 11:30 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 11:30:24 -0400

Pragmatically it could save money albeit not much overall, and simplify regulations. But I don't have a dog in this fight.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 11:32 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 11:32:11 -0400

In my opinion, no don't do away with the skirt and heels. If a female service member wanted to wear her service uniform to a military function, I feel that she should have the option to either wear the skirt or wear the pants.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made May 12 at 2016 11:35 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Thu, 12 May 2016 11:35:04 -0400

Yes. To the extent physically possible the male and female uniforms should be identical. After all, it's called a UNIFORM. I don't see guys wearing a skirt (with deference to my Scottish ancestors), so it appears more practical for women to wear the pants.

Response by TSgt Dawn Premock made May 12 at 2016 11:37 AM

TSgt Dawn Premock — Thu, 12 May 2016 11:37:46 -0400

Don't do away with the skit. I enjoyed the times I was able to wear it.

Response by SGT David T. made May 12 at 2016 11:39 AM

SGT David T. — Thu, 12 May 2016 11:39:10 -0400

From a purely cost and logistics perspective it would save money only having one uniform.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 12:01 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 12:01:26 -0400

I think female Soldiers should 'always' have the option to wear a skirt and high heals.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 12:04 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 12:04:38 -0400

I feel it is an unnecessary cost to tax payers and for Female officers to purchase slacks AND a skirt. In the past my SROTC PMS ordered me to wear my Class A uniform with skirt and high heels, to go do a JROTC site visit. It was impractical to do an in ranks inspection in the grass at the high school with the Cadets. Also, the only person that I believe can give me a lawful order to wear a skirt and high heels in Baldwin 6.

Now that women are integrating into the combat arms, when Female Soldiers are authorized spurs how exactly are they going to be able to attach them onto their high heels? I have no idea how that is going to work out.

Since 2012 I have done an unscientific study into how female Soldiers feel wearing their skirt as opposed to the slacks. I have heard the reply "sexy" numerous times attached to the skirt, and "professional" with the slacks. So what do we want Service members to feel while in uniform?

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 12:12 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 12:12:33 -0400

I'll defer to what appears to be the predominant opinion among the ladies...keep the skirt.

While we're at it...can we plz make the Polaris tartan kilt official Mess Dress? LOL

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 12:22 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 12:22:30 -0400

No, but don't make that uniform combination mandatory for functions. Give them the choice to wear it of the pants uniform.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made May 12 at 2016 12:22 PM

MCPO Roger Collins — Thu, 12 May 2016 12:22:49 -0400

Right, while we are at it lets go with unisex underwear, also. That would solve all the problems associated with uniforms and the transgender, male, female, cross dressers and so forth. NO, our service members look excellent in the uniforms that they have, including all regulation shoes and skirts. When deployed in a hostile environment, applicable wear for all should be used. Sorry, I like the way our women warriors look, as it is today. JMHO

Response by SFC Alfredo Garcia made May 12 at 2016 12:24 PM

SFC Alfredo Garcia — Thu, 12 May 2016 12:24:05 -0400

This is why you have different uniforms. There are no skirts for BDUs as it would be as practical as the beret. However, a dress uniform is about aesthetic and non battle functions it should be permitted as an option for those who choose it. So my answer is NO. They should keep it. I will not be surprised that the PC world will eventually infect the services and demand them gone or worse yet, permit men to wearing them. Wait a minute! I think I can do a skirt some merit...I'll get back to you later, I am going to try one on right now.

Response by CPO John Best made May 12 at 2016 12:27 PM

CPO John Best — Thu, 12 May 2016 12:27:11 -0400

I think ALL service members should have the same hair standards. That would create unity.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 12 at 2016 1:38 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Thu, 12 May 2016 13:38:13 -0400

No, I think the trousers and skirts look equally professional on women and since they have a choice between the two, more power to them. The only time I think female Marines would opt to wear the trousers over the skirt is when it comes to the Dress Blues because everyone loves showing off the blood stripe.

Personally, if there was any female uniform I would do away with, it would be the Service Maternity uniform. It's basically an apron looking thing, but it looks so hideous. It looks like you're wearing a trash bag or a shopping bag. When all Marine Corps uniforms are all tight and form fitting, this loose fitting piece of fabric is just an eyesore.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 1:49 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 13:49:23 -0400

Maybe keep it optional for the formal uniforms like the dress mess for the army or the whites for the navy, but for the service uniform I think it should be eliminated.

Nothing to do with rights or being politically correct, just that I believe (always have) that uniform means UNIform, as in one. With the exception of how the pants, shirts and jackets are cut, men and women should have the same uniform, the same medals, the same everything. We are, after all, all equals here.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 2:02 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 14:02:21 -0400

Just don't require me to wear starched white skirts and dresses in hot humid tropical ( jungle ) environments - between red dust in the summer and red mud in the winter - not to mention the body fluids - the desired effect of perfection is ruined beyond repair within a few minutes.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made May 12 at 2016 2:07 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Thu, 12 May 2016 14:07:43 -0400

I believe we need to listen to the women on this one. I don't want a vote. Nothing more dangerous than male dinosaurs trying to muck with it.

Response by PO2 Robert Aitchison made May 12 at 2016 2:09 PM

PO2 Robert Aitchison — Thu, 12 May 2016 14:09:49 -0400

It should continue to be an option for those who want to wear it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 2:32 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 14:32:59 -0400

I think the uniform should be based on the mission and if the Military is paying the cheapest way possible. If your mission is in an office and someone wants to pay for there own uniform then give them options. I believe ALL people in uniform should wear the same BDU and just have different name tapes. Office/Garrison could be different depending on the climate. The current ASU is great for parties but daily will be pretty pricy for continued dry cleaning. Should have changed the green to the IKE Jacket more practical for daily class A, B wear.

Response by MSgt James Mullis made May 12 at 2016 2:52 PM

MSgt James Mullis — Thu, 12 May 2016 14:52:40 -0400

No!

Response by MCPO Katrina Hutcherson made May 12 at 2016 3:18 PM

MCPO Katrina Hutcherson — Thu, 12 May 2016 15:18:38 -0400

CSM Private RallyPoint Member YES, get rid of them!! I was forced to wear it twice, once when graduating from "A" school where we had to march up a rather long hill afterwards and once during an Admirals change of command in an aircraft hangar at Air Station Miami, Florida in the stifling heat and humidity of July. Both times it was contradictory to the uniform regulations which state at ceremonies all personnel will wear slacks. I found the pumps extremely agonizing to wear and especially so when standing in formation for an hour and marching. There is no need to torture our female members and I know I'm not The only tomboy who finds skirts and pumps awkward at best. There is also nothing uniform about a uniform item that only 15% of service members can wear. I'm in favor of standard everything, including head gear and ties...I always felt like I was in the Salvation Army while wearing my combination cap!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 3:56 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 May 2016 15:56:40 -0400

No. *next question*

Response by CW3 Dylan E. Raymond, PHR made May 12 at 2016 3:58 PM

CW3 Dylan E. Raymond, PHR — Thu, 12 May 2016 15:58:06 -0400

No I don't think so....

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made May 12 at 2016 4:03 PM

COL Jean (John) F. B. — Thu, 12 May 2016 16:03:48 -0400

CSM Private RallyPoint Member No .. I do not. Despite all the gender-bender efforts by clueless "progressive" idiots, we have females in the military and males in the military. Uniforms should be authorized that recognize that simple fact.

Response by SFC Alfredo Garcia made May 12 at 2016 4:08 PM

SFC Alfredo Garcia — Thu, 12 May 2016 16:08:06 -0400

My second statement. This time I will address the picture. What I saw first: Five professionals and and a civilian. What I saw second: Their pride in what they accomplished whatever it may be. Third: The question-"Do you believe..." Fourth: I look down again and see they are all women. Still professional and proud. Fifth: 3 skirts and 3 slacks only because of the title. Didn't care before that. Finally: They are beautiful, respectable, and accomplished. They are all leaders and/or supporters of the greatest military this world has ever known past and present. Oh yeah, what was this about again? Skirts? Give me a break. Long tradition, they are professional enough to chose for themselves.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made May 12 at 2016 5:13 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Thu, 12 May 2016 17:13:09 -0400

CSM Private RallyPoint Member I personally don't think it is necessary - women should be proud to be women in the military and dress accordingly based on the environment they working in. If they are in the field or combat zone they have a uniform and standards, if they are in garrison they have a uniform and standards, and if they are at a military social event they have a uniform and standards. I believe they are appropriate and should remain the same. Just my opinion!

Response by SSG Wesley Peck made May 12 at 2016 5:25 PM

SSG Wesley Peck — Thu, 12 May 2016 17:25:42 -0400

No! Please, God, no. I believe that women should be able to look, act, feel, like women if they choose. I have always felt the regs were a bit too stringent regarding women's appearance.

Response by 1stSgt Eugene Harless made May 12 at 2016 5:50 PM

1stSgt Eugene Harless — Thu, 12 May 2016 17:50:21 -0400

No.

Response by SFC Wade W. made May 12 at 2016 5:52 PM

SFC Wade W. — Thu, 12 May 2016 17:52:34 -0400

No. Women should be able to decide for themselves, according to the event, which to wear.
If we are going to go this far when are we going to do away with the restrictions on women's hair? As of today women have to maintain a feminine appearance with their hair. If we get rid of the skirt then let's have all soldiers be required to have the "MILITARY HAIRCUT". I am sure there are plenty of folks who would resist that requirement with all fervor.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made May 12 at 2016 6:53 PM

CW4 Angel C. — Thu, 12 May 2016 18:53:34 -0400

Well if Liberals would have their way females won't be the only ones with the option to wear skirts!

Response by MAJ Bill Darling made May 12 at 2016 8:06 PM

MAJ Bill Darling — Thu, 12 May 2016 20:06:22 -0400

Yes. If we're going to be egalitarian, do away with those items, which will also save money (for the armed forces and the individual).

But don't stop there, expect the same standards across the board, so get rid of any extra items that aren't completely necessary (based on sex). And maybe we should consider disallowing jewelry and makeup. And at the very least, the services should do something that VMI and even Ranger School couldn't bring themselves to do and shave women's heads if men are required.

Response by Maj Kim Patterson made May 12 at 2016 10:10 PM

Maj Kim Patterson — Thu, 12 May 2016 22:10:05 -0400

No, I liked having options. What I didn't like was when I was pregnant the first time, no maternity uniform existed. It is difficult to present a professional appearance and be taken seriously in ruffles and Peter pan collars. Uniforms will be forever in evolution. I had the necessary judgement to pick the right combo for the task. Needless to say, I was thrilled when they finally gave us pants and skirts with pockets. I have my original pair of steel toe boots (well worn and well polished.) My pumps were more comfortable than my flats. It is an option. I don't have a problem with an option. Mandatory in so many specialties would be ludicrous.

Response by SN Greg Wright made May 13 at 2016 12:33 AM

SN Greg Wright — Fri, 13 May 2016 00:33:38 -0400

CSM Private RallyPoint Member Yes. They hinder combat-readiness. No one goes to battle in high heels.

I would be interested in your answer to this, CSM.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 3:10 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 03:10:56 -0400

The Armed Forces are full of customs and courtesies and tradition. I look at skirts and heels as part of tradition, at least when it comes to Class A's. For combat, uniformity and practicality rule the day.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made May 13 at 2016 11:00 AM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Fri, 13 May 2016 11:00:32 -0400

I would let only women decide on this one since, as a man I don't have to wear them. Personally, I think the design of the current skirts and dresses (except the long mess dress) look horrible on most female members.

But if the majority of the female members of the military find the skirts and dresses suitable, then keep them. If not, dump skirts and dresses.

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made May 13 at 2016 11:03 AM

SrA Matthew Knight — Fri, 13 May 2016 11:03:12 -0400

I see no issues with it. I'm not sure about the other branches but in the Air Force it's not a required item anyway, completely optional for those women that feel they'd rather wear that than the slacks and it looks just as professional.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 3:56 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 15:56:48 -0400

No. There is something very classy and feminine about a woman in a well-tailored skirt or dress. Why everyone wants to make everyone "gender neutral" boggles my mind. Leave female Servicemembers the choice (within commander's uniform of the day) to wear either one.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 5:24 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 17:24:03 -0400

I don't think it's worth all the engery in doing away with them. I however so believe it's another example of hypocrisy within the service. We preach dress right dress and uniformity yet we have a so many exceptions

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 5:42 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 17:42:02 -0400

Should we have common hair and grooming standards as well?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2016 9:16 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 May 2016 21:16:53 -0400

I Strongly believe that, if our women of uniform wants a change... We should listen & learn what they want!

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made May 14 at 2016 8:26 AM

MSgt Wayne Morris — Sat, 14 May 2016 08:26:02 -0400

Wouldn't this outrage the transgender troops?

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2016 9:35 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 May 2016 09:35:16 -0400

No -- not least because many women like to wear the skirt and heels for their more formal uniforms. Men and women are biologically different, folks. There's a maternity uniform and no paternity uniform for a reason. Also, do you /really/ want to force every woman wear pants to a Mess Dress event? Some of the comments are essentially stating, "We're going to be uniform. That means you have to dress like a guy." How is that fair to them?

Response by LTC Donell Kelly made May 14 at 2016 6:43 PM

LTC Donell Kelly — Sat, 14 May 2016 18:43:04 -0400

Force the men making these decisions about skirts & heels wear them every day for a week. The question will answer itself.

Response by SFC Terry Murphy made May 15 at 2016 10:22 AM

SFC Terry Murphy — Sun, 15 May 2016 10:22:50 -0400

Will the transgender males be issued them?

Response by SSG Jeff Binkiewicz made May 15 at 2016 11:22 AM

SSG Jeff Binkiewicz — Sun, 15 May 2016 11:22:52 -0400

Honestly, no.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2016 6:08 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 May 2016 18:08:40 -0400

I think all uniforms will eventually be unisex - this is the direction America is going with eliminating roles and perceptions associated with sex, sexual orientation, race, religion, etc.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2016 10:08 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 May 2016 10:08:20 -0400

i believe we should stop with all this crap and focus on winning wars. ISIS could care less about this junk

Response by CPO Amb. Terry Earthwind Nichols made May 16 at 2016 10:27 AM

CPO Amb. Terry Earthwind Nichols — Mon, 16 May 2016 10:27:01 -0400

If you're going to be equal - be equal. One uniform from cover to boots. Loosen male hair standards and tighten up female so they are the same. Enforce proper size requirements - tight fitting clothes are not authorized. This is a place where people die everyday and not a place to be pretty... GOD that felt good. Thanks for letting me vent...

Response by SGM Frederic Smith made May 17 at 2016 12:06 PM

SGM Frederic Smith — Tue, 17 May 2016 12:06:29 -0400

NO! Don't change anymore Tradition!

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 6:00 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 18:00:29 -0400

I believe that as long as there's more than one standard then male/female will continue to be treated differently.

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Oct 27 at 2016 8:47 AM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 08:47:04 -0400

No, in fact bring back cords.

Response by SCPO Henry Malone made May 27 at 2017 5:36 PM

SCPO Henry Malone — Sat, 27 May 2017 17:36:42 -0400

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Jun 17 at 2017 9:14 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 21:14:05 -0400

No, they should not be done away with. IMO, the skirt, heels and jacket lend a formality to female dress that the pants suit does not.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Mar 6 at 2018 11:47 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 11:47:26 -0500

I don't see any problem with the women wearing uniforms that are designed for women, service uniforms with either skirt or pants isn't even out of line with the corporate world although not uniforms in that case fine for the office type settings or semi-formal functions. i would still expect men to look and dress like men and women to look and dress like women. In either case I see no problem with any of the service uniforms. The idea in either case with Men or women is to project a professional Military appearance and in both cases by keeping in compliance with proper standards of wear and Regulations that is what happens. Why make an issue out of something that isn't an issue ?

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Mar 6 at 2018 12:16 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 12:16:03 -0500

Absolutely not IMHO. Women should not be directed to not wear or to wear skirts if they so choose for the occasion as long as it is practical and is within regulations. As you stated in your thread to wear a skirt and heels on a parade ground isn't practical..a formal event..practical I think they are classy and show that proud women can still dress like a lady be feminine when they choose to (again within regulations) and within 5 minutes throw on Battle Dress and kick butt all over the globe. To me it says we have women that are on their way to bring pain to the enemy. I think the skirt should be left up to the individual...just don't take away the choice for females.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2018 3:03 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 15:03:56 -0500

Yes.

Response by LTC Thomas Tennant made Mar 6 at 2018 4:01 PM

LTC Thomas Tennant — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 16:01:07 -0500

Might help all around.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 11:32 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Mar 2018 23:32:02 -0400

It’s an optional uniform. Some women like wearing them. I know, I live with two of them. They actually say they would be pissed off if they did away with them. Especially the dress mess.

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Mar 14 at 2018 3:11 PM

PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM — Wed, 14 Mar 2018 15:11:54 -0400

NOT ALL CHANGES ARE GOOD! for instance, The Navy left bellbottoms Jumpers and Dixie Cups and went to Chief's Uniforms for everyone BAD IDEA! Changed back but added the Salt and Pepper Good Will outfit, then tried to make the Navy look like Grunts, and then put them in Smurf Puke Camo, Who the hell they hiding from??? They get washed over the side, they are invisible. STUPID! Tried to do away with Crossing the Line EVEN BIGGER MISTAKE now its no longer a test of stamina and fun, its a milk toast and tea luncheon. Did away with the Chief's initiation. Even worse idea! Someone needs to go through the Pentagon and get rid of every limp wristed liberal wimp (I do not mean Women) they find and make the NAVY capable of Kicking Ass again as well as every other Service, and give them the Equipment and Parts to do it with.

Response by SP5 Gary Perkins made Nov 25 at 2020 9:43 AM

SP5 Gary Perkins — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 09:43:57 -0500

I’m sure there are some “men” in uniform that would like to have two options of skirt or pants! Let’s be fair to all persons in uniform! It’s the O’Biden way! Oh!!! I didn’t just say that!