CHAPTER 1: GENERAL

1000. GENERAL
1. The purpose of this Manual is to define Marine Corps uniform policies and provide regulations for the proper wear of the uniform.

2. Commanders may interpret the provisions of this Manual to address specific concerns whenever necessary. However, authority for local interpretations does not extend to the institution of policies or practices which are in contradiction to the provisions of this Manual. Exceptions to this Manual are only granted in writing by the Commandant of the Marine Corps (Marine Corps Uniform Board (MCUB)).

3. The Marine Corps uniform, with appropriate insignia, is designed primarily to show at a glance the branch of service and grade of the individual authorized to wear it. The uniform represents visual evidence of the authority and responsibility vested in the individual by the United States Government.

4. The title "Commander," as used in these regulations, includes those Marine officers titled as Commanding General, Commanding Officer, Director, Officer in Charge, or Inspector-Instructor.

5. When official references are made to the uniform by any person in the Marine Corps, or its official publications, the terms in these regulations will be used.

6. Wearing the uniform should be a matter of personal pride to all Marines. Marines will maintain their uniforms and equipment in a neat and serviceable condition and will, by their appearance, set an example of neatness and strict conformity with these regulations.

a. Marines are known not just for their battlefield prowess, but for their unparalleled standards of professionalism and uncompromising personal conduct and appearance. It is a Marine's duty and personal obligation to maintain a professional and neat appearance. Any activity which detracts from the dignified appearance of Marines is unacceptable. The use of chewing gum, chewing tobacco, cigarettes or the consumption of food while walking in uniform or while in formation, are examples of activities that detract from the appearance expected of a United States Marine.

b. Good judgment will govern the application of this policy in the field environment.

c. The purpose of this policy is to ensure Marines present the best possible image at all times and continue to lead the way in military presence. (ALMAR 299/97)

7. Components of one uniform will not be worn with components of another except as authorized by these regulations.

8. The commander may authorize Marines participating in athletics, range instructions, field exercises, and similar activities to wear clothing and equipment other than that prescribed in these regulations.

9. Chapter 1 of these regulations is a punitive order. Violation of the specific prohibitions and requirements in chapter 1 by Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve personnel and those of other services who wear the Marine Corps uniform may result in prosecution under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

1001. RESPONSIBILITY FOR UNIFORM MATTERS
1. Permanent Marine Corps Uniform Board (PMCUB). The PMCUB acts as the principal advisor to CMC on all uniform matters, coordinates approval of all clothing allowances, and oversees development and coordinates testing of new and redesigned uniform items. PMCUB implements the Commandant's guidance or "vision" in regard to uniforms. The Uniform Board functions as advocate for the individual Marine (user) and develops field concerns (as expressed in official correspondence) into decision issues for the Commandant. Also, the PMCUB sponsors MCO P1020.34, Marine Corps Uniform Regulations (MCUR), which details uniform policies and prescribes how uniforms are worn.

2. Deputy Commandant for Installations and Logistics, Logistics Capability Center (LPC). LPC addresses problems/inquiries relative to the issue and supply status of standard uniform items, and coordinates with the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP) on supply system and standardization issues. LPP sponsors MCO P10120.28, Individual Clothing Regulations (ICR), which contains guidance and instruction covering administration of individual clothing for enlisted personnel. This manual provides guidance for granting civilian clothing allowances. LPC publishes annually MCBul 10120, Individual Clothing Allowances for Enlisted Personnel, which contains all authorized allowances and minimum requirement lists. Also, LPC administers Retail Clothing Outlets (RCO's) that stock, manage and sell standard issue or "system" items exclusively.

3. Commanding General, Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany (Clothing Design Office (837). The Clothing Design Office develops new or redesigned uniform items as directed by the CMC and PMCUB, monitors quality control of uniform items through field submission of Product Quality Deficiency Reports (PQDR's), and manages the quality control program for optional items. The Clothing Designer is responsible for preparation and maintenance of detailed specifications and drawings of all authorized uniform items. Also, his office sponsors TM-10120-15/1, Technical Manual for Fitting and Alteration, which provides detailed guidance on the correct fitting of uniforms.

4. Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Marine Corps Exchange. The Fiscal Branch (MRF) administers all Military Clothing Sales Stores (MCSSs) that sell both standard issue and optional items. MRF assists with stock management of supply system items at the MCSSs. The Retail Operations Branch (MRX) administers all uniform shops co-located with Marine Corps Exchanges that sell optional or non-supply system items exclusively. MRX ensures that sufficient quantities of optional uniform items (to include officer uniforms) are procured and stocked at both uniform shops. MCO P1700.27, MWR Policy Manual, details procedures for uniform clothing for all exchange activities. Also, MWX sponsors the Marine Corps Exchange Commercial Sources Manual for Approved Marine Corps Uniform Items, which lists all authorized optional uniform items and accessories with their Marine Corps approval identification serial numbers.

5. Commander, Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM), Deputy Program Manager, Marine. MARCORSYSCOM is responsible for research, development and acquisition of both individually retained and organizational items of individual field clothing and equipment. It coordinates with the U.S. Army
Natick Research, Development and Engineering Center as well as other DoD laboratories on all joint service tests of uniform items.

6. Commander, Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM). The Director, Navy Uniform Program, is responsible for providing mail-order support to Marine Corps personnel worldwide for system uniform clothing items. The Commander, Marine Corps Logistics Bases and the Commander, Navy Exchange Service Command will continually coordinate this program.

7. Commander, Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES). AAFES administers the MCSS in Okinawa an ensures that both standard issue and optional uniforms are procured and stocked in sufficient quantities.

1002. UNIFORM OF THE DAY

1. The uniform of the day will be as prescribed by the commander, per guidance provided in Chapter 2. [ALMAR 015/02]

2. In prescribing the uniform of the day, commanders will consider the duty to be performed and the weather conditions.

3. The order prescribing the uniform of the day will be conspicuously posted.

1003. RESTRICTIONS ON WEARING UNIFORMS
1. Members of the Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserve, including retired Marines, are prohibited from wearing the Marine Corps uniform while engaged in any of the following activities, functions or circumstances unless specifically authorized by the CMC (Public Affairs(PA):

a. Soliciting funds for any purpose from the public outside of a military base or establishment.

b. Participating in any type of show or event which is commercially sponsored for advertising purposes, where it could be implied or construed that the Marine Corps "endorses" the product advertised.

c. "Endorsing" commercial products in such ways as to involve the uniform, title, grade or rate, or in any way establish or imply their military affiliation with such products.

d. Appearing or participating in any event in public that would compromise the dignity of the uniform.

2. Whenever any doubt exists as to the propriety of wearing the Marine Corps uniform under circumstances similar to those enumerated above, specific requests should be directed to the CMC (MCUB/PA).

3. For further information on those laws and directives which govern the authority to wear the uniform, refer to Chapter 11.

1004. PERSONAL APPEARANCE
1. The Marine Corps uniform regulations for standards of personal appearance and grooming are as specific as practicable in order to establish the parameters with which Marines must comply. Marine Corps uniform standards of grooming do not allow eccentric or faddish styles of hair, jewelry, or eyeglasses. Eccentricities in individual appearance detract from uniformity and team identity. Because it is impossible to provide examples of every appropriate or unacceptable style of "conservative" or "eccentric" grooming and attire, the good judgement of Marines at all levels is key to enforcement of Marine Corps standards in this issue, as in other issues.

2. Articles that are not authorized for wear as a part of a regulation uniform will not be worn exposed with the uniform unless otherwise authorized by the Commandant or higher authority. Examples of such articles include but are not limited to the following: pencils, pens, watch chains, fobs, pins, civlian backpacks/bags, jewelry (except as authorized herein), handkerchiefs, combs, cigarettes, pipes, barrettes, hair ribbons/ornaments, flowers (corsages/boutonnieres, etc.) or other similar items. Except for the authorization contained in paragraph 7000, articles such as cellular phones, pagers, etc. are not authorized for wear on a regulation uniform.

3. Articles that may be worn while in uniform include inconspicuous wrist watches and rings. Sunglasses may be worn on leave, liberty, and in garrison but not in formation with troops, unless the need to wear sunglasses has been certified by medical authorities. When authorized for wear in formations, sunglass lenses will be of standard green or dark green shade or may be the type commonly referred to as "photosensitive." Sunglasses that do not have "photosensitive" lenses will not be worn indoors. Eyeglasses/sunglasses, when worn, will be conservative in appearance. Eccentric or conspicuous eyepieces are prohibited. Chains, bands, or ribbons will not be attached to eyeglasses; however, eyeglass restraints are authorized for safety purposes, but must be of conservative style/design. (IGMC)

4. Subject to temporary revocation due to health, safety, or mission requirements, Marines may wear neat and conservative:

a. Articles of religious apparel which are not visible or apparent when worn with the uniform.

b. Visible articles of religious apparel with the uniform while attending or conducting divine services or while in a chapel or other house of worship.

c. Visible articles of religious apparel with the uniform which do not interfere with or replace required uniform articles.

5. Grooming Regulations

a. No eccentricities in the manner of wearing head, facial, or body hair will be permitted. If applied, dyes, tints, bleaches and frostings which result in natural colors are authorized. The hair color must complement the person's complexion tone. Color changes that detract from a professional image are prohibited. Fingernails will be kept clean and neatly trimmed so as not to interfere with performance of duty, detract from military image or present a safety hazard. Nail polish for male Marines is not allowed. Nail polish as it applies to female Marines will fall under standards in subparagraph 1004.5.c(5). (ALMAR 256/96)

b. Men will be well groomed at all times and will abide by the following:

(1) Hair will be neat and closely trimmed. The hair may be clipped at the edges of the side and back; will be evenly graduated from zero length at the hairline in the lower portion of the head to the upper portion of the head; and will not be over 3 inches in length fully extended on the upper portion of the head; the back and sides of the head below the hairline may be shaved to remove body hair. Sideburns will not extend below the top of the orifice of the ear, as indicated by the line A-A' in figures 1-1 and 1-2. Sideburns will not be styled to taper or flare. The length of an individual hair of the sideburn will not exceed 1/8 inch when fully extended.

(2) Head hair will be styled so as not to interfere with the proper wear of uniform headgear. Hair which protrudes from beneath properly worn headgear in an unsightly manner is considered excessive, regardless of length.

(3) No male Marine will be required to have his hair clipped to the scalp except while he is undergoing recruit training or when such action is prescribed by a medical officer. This does not prohibit a male Marine from having his hair clipped to the scalp if he so desires.

(4) Members of the Selected Marine Corps Reserve will comply with these regulations, except that wigs are authorized for periods of inactive duty for training. If worn, wigs will comply with the above grooming regulations.

(5) The face will be clean shaven, except that a mustache may be worn. When worn, the mustache will be neatly trimmed and must be contained within the lines of B-B', C-C', D-D' and the margin area of the upper lip, as shown in figures 1-1 and 1-2. The individual length of a mustache hair fully extended must not exceed 1/2 inch.

(6) Except for a mustache, eyebrows, and eyelashes; hair may be grown on the face only when a medical officer has determined that shaving is temporarily harmful to the individual's health. In these cases, the current edition of MCO 6310.1 applies.

(7) No male Marine will be required to have his chest hair clipped except that which is so long as to protrude in an unsightly manner above the collar of the long sleeve khaki shirt. Figure 1-1.--Male Grooming Standards (Front View) Figure 1-2.--Male Grooming Standards (Side View).

c. The requirement for hair regulations is to maintain uniformity within a military population. Women's hairstyles require non-eccentric styles. Female Marines will be well groomed at all times and when in uniform will abide by the following:

(1) Hair may touch the collar, but will not fall below the collar's lower edge. Hair that would fall naturally below the collar's lower edge will be neatly and inconspicuously fastened or pinned. During physical training periods in which physical training clothing is worn, hair will be allowed to fall naturally, without being fastened or pinned. This does not apply when conducting physical training in the utility uniform.

(2) Hair will be styled so as not to interfere with the proper wear of the uniform headgear. All headgear will fit snugly and comfortably around the largest part of the head without distortion or excessive gaps. Hairstyles which do not allow the headgear to be worn in this manner are prohibited.

(3) Faddish and exaggerated styles to include shaved portions of the scalp other than the neckline, designs cut in the hair, unsecured ponytails and styles which are distinctly unbalanced or lopsided are prohibited. Multiple braiding is authorized. If hair extensions are used in the braiding of the hair, the extensions must have the same general appearance as the individual's natural hair. Braided hairstyles will be conservative, and conform to other guidelines listed herein.

(4) Barrettes, combs, rubber bands, etc. are authorized, if concealed by the hair. Inconspicuous hair pins and bobby pins, if required, are authorized. Hair nets will not be worn unless authorized for a specific type of duty. Wigs, if worn in uniform, must look natural and conform to the above regulations.

(5) Cosmetics, if worn, will be applied conservatively and will complement the individual's complexion tone. Exaggerated or faddish cosmetic styles are inappropriate with the uniform and will not be worn.  If worn, nail polish and non-eccentric lipstick will harmonize with the scarlet shade used in various service and dress uniform items (i.e. scarlet cord on green service cap, scarlet trim on blue dress uniform, and scarlet background on enlisted insignia of grade), in shades of red, and may be worn with the service, blue dress, blue-white dress and evening dress uniforms.  Colored nail polish will not be worn with the utility uniform.  Fingernails with multiple colors and decorative ornamentation are prohibited.  Nail length will be no longer than 1/4 inch from the tip of the finger.  (MARADMIN 199/01)

(6) No female Marine will be required to remove leg hair except where considered unsightly and cannot be covered with appropriate hosiery as described in subparagraph 3027.5.  (ALMAR 352/96)

1005. CIVILIAN CLOTHING
1. Authority

a. The CMC has extended the privilege of wearing civilian clothing to officers and enlisted Marines within the limitations of these regulations.

b. The possession and wearing of civilian clothing by Marines may be prescribed by commanders for military reasons. In prescribing civilian clothing, commanders will be guided by the current edition of MCO P10120.28 and directives of higher authority.

2. Within the United States

a. Marines may wear civilian clothing when in an off-duty status, when directed by competent authority, and as otherwise authorized herein.

b. Within the confines of a military base, civilian clothing will be worn subject to local regulations.

3. Aboard Ship and Aircraft

a. Officers and enlisted Marines are permitted to possess civilian clothing when assigned duty aboard ship. Unless otherwise prescribed by competent authority, such clothing may be worn while leaving or returning to the ship, while awaiting transportation after being given permission to leave the ship, while on authorized leave of absence, liberty, or in any off-duty status ashore.

b. Officers and enlisted Marines will wear appropriate military uniform when traveling as passengers aboard MSC ships. However, all Marines traveling aboard Category B military air charters or government-owned aircraft (including AMC category M) are authorized to wear appropriate civilian attire, unless otherwise directed by the individual's orders or for unit deployment.

c. Civilian clothes will reflect in style and quality the service "C" uniform. Non-inclusive examples of appropriate civilian attire:

(1) shirt with a collar/blouse,

(2) trousers/slacks with a belt (if applicable), and

(3) socks and shoes.

d. Examples of inappropriate civilian attire:

(1) beach or swim wear,

(2) gym or sweat gear,

(3) tank tops,

(4) short shorts,

(5) ripped or torn clothing,

(6) garments designed as underwear,

(7) clothing with designs of an obscene or suggestive nature, and

(8) shower shoes/flipflops.  (ALMAR 123/96)

e. The activity issuing travel orders will refer to the current editions of the USAF Foreign Clearance Guide and MCO 4650.30, to determine whether uniform or civilian attire should be prescribed.

4. Outside the United States

a. Marines stationed outside the United States will wear the appropriate uniform when on duty unless civilian clothing is required by the laws of a foreign country, prescribed by competent authority, or necessary in performing specialized duties.

b. Personnel on leave and traveling in a foreign country should normally wear civilian clothing. When civilian clothing is worn, it will be in good taste and not in conflict with accepted attire in the country visited. The guidelines in subparagraph 1005.3c apply.

c. In Mexico, official visits will always be made in the appropriate uniform. Unofficial visits to the interior should always be made in civilian clothing. Unofficial visits to border towns may be made in either civilian clothing or the appropriate uniform.

5. Special Assignments/Requirements

a. Marines in special billets whose offices are separate from other naval activities, and whose duties require them to associate principally with civilians, may wear civilian clothing when so stated in their orders or as otherwise authorized by the CMC.

b. Officers under instruction at civilian educational institutions and in civilian industrial establishments may wear civilian clothing for such duty.

6. White House. Civilian attire may not be worn to the White House, except as follows:

a. While attending or participating in conferences, working group sessions, etc., at the Executive Office Building when the President or his senior advisers will not be present.

b. When explicitly called for in an invitation.

c. When an assigned billet requires civilian attire be worn.

d. While visiting the White House as a tourist.

7. Standards of Dress

a. Marines are associated and identified with the Marine Corps in and out of uniform, and when on or off duty. Therefore, when civilian clothing is worn, Marines will ensure that their dress and personal appearance are conservative and commensurate with the high standards traditionally associated with the Marine Corps. No eccentricities of dress will be permitted. Marines are prohibited from:

(1) wearing earrings (applicable to male Marines), and;

(2) attaching, affixing or displaying objects, articles, jewelry or ornamentation to or through their skin, tongue or any other body part.  Female Marines, however, may wear earrings consistent with paragraph 3009.  (MARADMIN 199/01)

b. Tattoos or brands on the neck and head are prohibited. In other areas of the body, tattoos or brands that are prejudicial to good order, discipline and morale or are of a nature to bring discredit upon the Marine Corps are also prohibited.

c. This regulation does not prohibit necessary medical or surgical procedures conducted by licensed, qualified medical personnel.  (ALMAR 194/96)

d. When civilian clothing has been authorized by competent authority for wear in a duty status in lieu of a uniform, the civilian clothing will be of the same comparable degree of formality as the uniform prescribed for such duty. Standards of dress and appearance will be conservative and meet the same high standards established for personnel in uniform.

e. When wearing civilian headgear it will be removed when indoors, except that women may wear headgear in accordance with established social norms. The wear of clothing articles not specifically designed to be normally worn as headgear (e.g. bandannas, doo rags...) are prohibited.

f. No part of a prescribed uniform, except those items which are not exclusively military in character, will be worn with civilian clothing.

(1) Items authorized for wear with civilian clothing by men are restricted to the gold cuff links, studs, tie bar, mourning band, footwear, socks, gloves, undergarments, black bow-tie, green wool scarf, general purpose trunks, and crew neck service sweater, the all-weather coat, tanker jacket, dress blue sweater and personally owned extreme cold weather jackets (gortex) without grade insignia, watch caps, and cold weather physical training uniforms.  

(2) Uniform items authorized for wear with civilian clothing by women are restricted to the white shirt without insignia of grade, footwear, gloves, handbag, clutch purse, mourning band, crew neck service sweaters, green wool scarf, general purpose trunks, and the all-weather coat, extreme cold weather jacket (gortex), tanker jacket or the dress blue sweater without insignia of grade, watch caps, and cold weather physical training uniforms..

(3) Uniform items that have been declared obsolete may be worn with civilian clothing, when appropriate, provided such items contain no distinctive insignia or buttons.

1006. UNIFORM PROCUREMENT AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS. There are two distinct categories of uniforms and therefore two separate systems for procurement and management.

1. Marine Corps Supply System/Standard Issue Clothing

a. The first category is standard issue or "seabag" clothing items which constitute minimum required uniforms and accessories for enlisted Marines. These items are known as "system" items because they are procured and managed by the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP) and are available through the Marine Corps Supply System.

b. The DSCP is responsible for procuring standard uniform items for all services. They use the "best value" concept to evaluate contractor clothing samples in order to make cost-saving multi-year buys. DSCP is responsible to the Secretary of Defense through the Commander, Defense Logistics Agency.

c. Retail Clothing Outlets (RCO's) and Military Clothing Sales Stores (MCSS's) buy standard issue items from DSCP using normal Marine Corps Supply System procedures per MCO P4400.150. Commands can purchase authorized organizational and/or supplemental clothing using these same procedures.

d. RCO's are managed by the Marine Corps Supply System to sell standard issue uniform items to Marines at cost. MCSS's are managed by the Marine Corps Exchange to sell "system" clothing at cost and to sell "non-system" or optional uniform items at cost plus a reasonable retail mark-up. Base commanders pay a management fee out of their operating funds to their base MCSS to cover overhead costs.

e. The procurement and inspection of Marine Corps clothing are matters under the cognizance of the DSCP; therefore, the entry of defective clothing into the Marine Corps Supply System is not recognized until received at the RCO or MCSS. In this instance, commanders will ensure that clothing outlets:

(1) Inspect all uniform clothing prior to issue or sale.

(2) Submit a Product Quality Deficiency Report (PQDR) in accordance with the current edition of MCO 4855.10 upon receipt of defective clothing which affects the desired appearance and/or functionality. No repairs to defective items are authorized until repair/disposition instructions are received from the CG, MCLB Albany, GA because all uniform items procured are covered by various contractual warranties.

f. All system clothing and accessory items are available to Marines stationed world wide via a mail order program managed by the Navy Exchange Services Command. Submit orders by mail to Mail Order Program, 1545 Crossways Blvd., Suite 200, Uniform Support Center, Chesapeake, VA 30320. The following information is required with each order: full name, grade, social security number, sex, telephone number, shipping address, duty station, items desired, size, color, fabric, type, and quantity. Orders may be placed toll free to an
operator on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The number is 1-800-368-4088.

g. All standard issue or "system" items can be identified as such by the National Stock Number (NSN) on the garment label. Labels will contain the garment's fiber content and proper care and cleaning instructions.

2. Non-Supply System/Optional Clothing. The second category of uniforms is commercial "non-system" or optional clothing items. These items are not available through the Marine Corps Supply System and therefore must be procured from commercially available sources. Optional uniforms and accessories to include all officer uniform items are procured and managed by the Marine Corps Exchange and/or commercial vendors.

a. Exchange-Operated Uniform Shops and Military Clothing Sales Stores (MCSS's)

(1) The Marine Corps Exchange manages the retail sale of non-supply system clothing through branch exchanges in a decentralized manner. Each branch's uniform shop or MCSS orders, stocks, and prices non-supply system clothing as they see fit. Retail mark-up on individual items is not restricted and will vary at each base. Mark-ups should be reasonable. Management fees for MCSS's are calculated on a percentage of sales. Base commanders can have a significant impact on their local exchanges management priorities in determining reasonble mark-ups and the availability of uniform items.

(2) Items listed as approved for purchase from sources other than the Marine Corps Supply System may be procured from approved commercial vendors. All items purchased must bear the USMC Approval Identification to indicate that they meet Marine Corps standards (See figure 1-3). Items of hardware must have a USMC approval serial number stamped on the reverse side. The Wool Products Labeling Act and Textile Products Fiber Identification Act require that all clothing manufactured or sold in the U.S. contain a label specifically stating the fiber content of the garment. The military specification for all Marine Corps clothing garments requires this labeling and that proper care and cleaning instructions be included. It is the individual's responsibility to ensure that his or her purchases are properly labeled.

(3) Only those items approved and authorized by the CMC will be sold to personnel through the Marine Corps exchange-operated uniform shops and MCSS's.

(4) Marine Corps exchanges and MCSS's that purchase items of approved, regulation uniforms and/or accessories from a vendor will require, in addition to the approval identification, a certification on the receipt, invoice or statement that the item was manufactured according to approved Marine Corps standards and of Marine Corps approved materials.

(5) Marine Corps exchanges which purchase uniforms or accessories of inferior quality or workmanship from approved manufacturers, distributors, or tailors will immediately notify the Marine Corps Exchange, Retail Operations Branch (MWF/C-2) by letter. These reports will specifically detail the nature of the complaint and forward a sample item to the CMC (MWF/C-2) for further submission to the CG, MCLB Albany for examination and evaluation according to the Quality Control Program. Ensure the following information is contained in the report: name and address of manufacturer, item and date purchased, USMC approval serial number, and detailed description of defects. Articles forwarded should be charged to the Marine Corps Exchange Fund and be accompanied by an invoice showing the description of the article, unit cost price, name of the manufacturer, and of the distributor or tailor if not purchased direct from the manufacturer. After examination and evaluation, the CG, MCLB Albany will return and reinvoice the article or direct other disposition.

(6) Marines who purchase defective uniform clothing items from Marine Corps exchanges should report the purchase of defective clothing by letter to the Marine Corps exchange officer at the base where they are stationed, enclosing the defective item. Ensure that the following information is contained in the letter: name and address of exchange from which item was purchased, description of article, price, date purchased, name of manufacturer, USMC approval serial number, and description of defect.

(7) Marines stationed at bases where there is no Marine Corps exchange in the immediate vicinity and who purchase defective clothing from the Marine Corps exchanges should report the purchase of the defective item by letter to the CMC (MWF/C-2), enclosing the defective item. Ensure that the letter contains all of the information required by subparagraph 1006.2a(6), above.

(8) The Marine Corps Exchange operates a mail order program for standard issue and commercial/optional uniform items. The CMC (MWF/C-2) publishes and distributes the "Mail Order Catalog for Commercial Uniforms." Mail order service is provided for male and female Marines by the MCCDC Quantico exchange and for male Marines by the exchanges at Marine Corps Bases, Camp Pendleton and Camp Lejeune.

(9) The Marine Corps Exchange (MWF/C-2), Quantico, VA maintains a toll-free uniform hotline, which may be accessed internationally, to facilitate the resolution of inquiries/complaints pertaining to the availability and quality of commercial uniforms and uniform items. The number for the hotline is 1-800-386-USMC (8762) or DSN 278-6310. Calls may be placed 24 hours a day, seven days a week but will be answered by a machine outside of normal working hours and when the office staff is otherwise occupied. When leaving messages include the caller's name, duty station, toll or DSN number along with operator number if available, and timezone or best CONUS time for return calls. Calls should be confined to non-supply system uniform items which are sold exclusively for officer wear or as optional enlisted items.

b. U.S. Commercial Vendors

(1) Marine Corps activity commanders will prohibit vendors from entering the confines of their activities for the purpose of displaying and/or selling uniform items/accessories without proper identification to indicate that specific uniform items/accessories have been approved by the CMC. All clothing items must be properly labeled to include USMC approval identification, the fiber content of the garment and proper care and cleaning instructions. Instances of nonconformance by an approved source will be reported to the CMC (MWX).

(2) Unless specifically authorized by these regulations, items purchased outside the Marine Corps Supply System and which do not bear approval identification are nonregulation, and wearing such items is prohibited. If an emergency makes it necessary to temporarily wear nonregulation clothing obtained from other sources, such clothing will be procured at the commander's direction and conform as closely as possible to items prescribed herein.

(3) Marines who purchase defective clothing items (containing the USMC approval identification) from authorized commercial vendors, other than the Marine Corps Supply System and Marine Corps exchange system, are urged to report the purchase of defective clothing directly to the CG (855), MCLB Albany. When desirable, forward a sample defective item by registered mail. Ensure that the following information is contained in the report: name and address of authorized vendor from which the item was purchased, description of the article, price, date purchased, name of manufacturer, USMC approval serial number, and description of defects. After examination and evaluation, the CG, MCLB Albany will return the article via registered mail, annotated with the action taken on behalf of the individual.

c. Purchase Outside the United States

(1) Personnel ordered overseas for a normal tour of duty will possess not less than the minimum required items of uniforms and accessories, unless otherwise prescribed in the individual's orders or in the current edition of MCO P3000.1.

(2) Marines are authorized to purchase uniforms outside the United States, provided such uniforms are manufactured from materials and findings purchased from the CG, MCLB Albany (876/MAU). Under this authority enlisted Marines may purchase only those uniform items listed in paragraphs 9202 and 9203.

(3) Commanders will ensure that uniforms purchased conform to Marine Corps specifications and these regulations. An appropriate entry will be made in the individual's service record book.

1007. MATERIALS, FINDINGS, PATTERNS AND SPECIFICATIONS
1. All uniform clothing, equipment, and accessories issued or sold by the Marine Corps Supply System are considered regulation. Non-supply system clothing items are regulation if they contain a USMC approval identification serial number, except as otherwise authorized in these regulations. Non-supply system uniforms must have proper content labeling unless fabricated under the provisions of subparagraph 1006.2(c)(2).

2. Figure 1-3 is a sample of the USMC approval identification label that all commerical or non-supply system items must have. The serial number is issued by CG, MCLB Albany to the manufacturer, fabricator or whosesale supplier after an item has been reviewed and approved per the latest edition of MCO 10120.56. The serial number will be unique to the manufacturer/wholeseller and uniform item or material fabricated. Retail outlets will not normally be issued approval numbers unless they fabricate a uniform item on their own.

3. The term "cloth of adopted standard" refers to the standard sealed samples of fabrics in the custody of the CG, MCLB Albany. All fabric used in standard issue and optional uniform clothing must be approved by the CMC. DPSC manages the supply support of all issue fabrics. Optional fabric samples submitted to CG, MCLB Albany by textile mills and/or distributors must be certified by an independent textile testing agency.

4. The MCLB Albany has been delegated the responsibility for the preparation and maintenance of detailed specifications and drawings for all articles of uniform, insignia, and accessories prescribed for wear by Marines. Standard samples of uniforms, fabrics, insignia, and accessories, as approved by the CMC, will be held by the CG, MCLB Albany. Articles procured, manufactured, or issued will conform in every respect to the standard samples, and no change will be permitted without CMC approval.

5. Marine Corps exchanges and individuals authorized to purchase uniforms from sources other than the Marine Corps Supply System may procure materials and findings upon direct application to the CG (876/MAU), MCLB Albany. Patterns and specifications may be obtained without cost upon request to the CG (855), MCLB Albany.

6. Sale of Marine Corps uniform materials for the manufacture of uniforms for enlisted personnel is not authorized, except when enlisted personnel are authorized to wear officer-type uniforms and then therefore are also authorized to procure officer uniform materials, findings, patterns, and specifications.

1008. ALTERATIONS
1. Alterations to uniform clothing to improve fit are authorized; however, such alterations will not change the intended appearance or function of the garment as designed.

2. Alterations to uniform clothing of enlisted personnel will be made at Government expense when authorized by organization supply officers according to instructions in the current edition of TM-10120-15/1, Technical Manual for Uniform Fitting and Alteration.

3. Care should be taken when contracting alteration services from a commercial vendor so that unauthorized or unneeded alteration procedures are not included in the contract. Uniforms are designed so as to minimize alteration costs. Alteration contracts can be reviewed periodically by contacting CG (855), MCLB Albany. Reports of an excessive number of fitting sessions are an indication that there may be problems with the alteration process.

4. Commanders will ensure that all alterations, either at Government expense or at the individual's expense, conform to the spirit and intent of these regulations. Every effort will be made to ensure that proper tailoring facilities are available to all personnel of the command. Personnel will be advised that alterations performed at other than designated military tailoring establishments will be the individual's responsibility and will conform strictly with these regulations and the current edition of TM-10120-15/1. 5. Wearing improperly altered uniform clothing is prohibited