Wearing the garrison cap in the Army requires precision and adherence to strict uniform regulations, ensuring a sharp and professional appearance. The cap should sit squarely on the head, with specific insignia placement for officers and enlisted personnel.
General Principles for Wearing the Garrison Cap
The garrison cap, also known as a flight cap or "piss cutter," is an integral part of the Army's service uniform. Proper wear is essential for maintaining military bearing and conforming to established standards.
- Position: The cap must be worn squarely on the head, with the front crease centered on the forehead. The bottom of the cap should be parallel to the ground, and it should sit comfortably without tilting to either side or to the front or back.
- Fit: It should fit snugly but not too tightly, ensuring it doesn't fall off easily while also avoiding discomfort.
- Condition: The cap must always be clean, uncreased (except for the prescribed creases), and free of lint, stains, or damage.
- Hair: When wearing the garrison cap, hair should not protrude from under the cap in an unkempt manner. Regulations typically require hair to be neatly groomed and contained.
Insignia Placement on the Garrison Cap
The placement of insignia is crucial and varies depending on rank. The reference specifies distinct requirements for officers and enlisted personnel.
For Officers
Officers will wear nonsubdued grade insignia on the garrison cap centered on the left curtain 1 inch from the front crease. This ensures their rank is clearly visible and correctly positioned according to Army standards.
For Enlisted Personnel
Enlisted personnel will wear their DUI (Distinctive Unit Insignia) on the garrison cap on the left curtain 1 inch from the front crease. The DUI represents the soldier's specific unit and is a point of pride, worn with precision.
Here’s a summary of insignia placement:
| Personnel Type | Insignia | Placement on Left Curtain |
|---|---|---|
| Officers | Nonsubdued Grade Insignia | Centered, 1 inch from the front crease |
| Enlisted Personnel | DUI (Distinctive Unit Insignia) | 1 inch from the front crease |
Step-by-Step Guide to Wearing Your Garrison Cap
- Inspect the Cap: Before wearing, ensure your garrison cap is clean, free of wrinkles, and undamaged. Check that all insignia are correctly placed and secured.
- Position on Head: Place the cap on your head so that the vertical crease in the front is centered on your forehead.
- Align Horizontally: Adjust the cap so that the base of the cap (the "curtain") is parallel to the ground. It should not be tilted forward, backward, or to either side.
- Check Fit: Ensure the cap fits securely and comfortably. It should not be so loose that it easily falls off, nor so tight that it causes discomfort or leaves marks.
- Verify Insignia: Double-check that your grade insignia (for officers) or DUI (for enlisted personnel) is precisely positioned on the left curtain, 1 inch from the front crease, as specified by regulations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Tilting: Avoid wearing the cap tilted to the side, back, or front. It must sit squarely.
- Incorrect Insignia: Ensure you are wearing the correct type of insignia (nonsubdued grade for officers, DUI for enlisted) and that it is properly secured and oriented.
- Dirty or Damaged Cap: A soiled, faded, or damaged cap is not authorized for wear.
- Wearing Indoors (Unauthorized): Unless specifically authorized by a commander or for official ceremonies, the garrison cap is typically removed when indoors.
When to Wear the Garrison Cap
The garrison cap is primarily worn with the Army Service Uniform (ASU) and other service uniforms when outdoors or when transiting between locations. It is generally not worn with combat uniforms, which typically use the patrol cap or advanced combat helmet. Always consult current Army uniform regulations, such as DA PAM 670-1, for the most up-to-date guidance on uniform wear and appearance. For further details on Army uniform standards, you can refer to official Army publications available through sources like the Army Publishing Directorate.
