Chapter 5

Chapter 5

UNIFORMS, EQUIPMENT, BOOKS, AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE

SECTION A -- ACCOUNTABILITY, CADET RESPONSIBILITIES, AND GENERAL POLICIES

5.1. Cadet Uniform. The AFJROTC cadet uniform is, with certain exceptions, the same one that is worn by active duty Air Force members. Thus, wear it proudly and correctly! Cadets must keep the uniform clean, neat, and in good condition always, with badges, ribbons, insignia, and other metallic devices properly maintained. UNIFORM DAY FOR TX-20016 IS WEDNESDAY! Only the SASI or ASI will grant exceptions to this policy. All cadets will wear the uniform the entire school day from when the first bell rings until the final bell rings dismissing students. Students involved in work-study or shop classes must get an exception to the uniform wear policy from the SASI or wear the uniform as required.

5.2. Receipt for Uniform, Books, and Other Equipment. When a cadet is issued a uniform, they will sign a Custody Receipt Form. Cadets will also sign for books and course materials that are issued to them. Each item then becomes the property of the cadet, who is responsible for its care. If the item is lost or willfully or negligently destroyed, beyond normal wear and tear, the cadet must pay for it at current replacement cost. The ASI will provide a price listing, as required, for all accountable items. Any item substitution must be authorized by the ASI prior to purchase.

5.2.1. Except for those cadets in the elite teams (Color Guard and Drill Team), cadets will be issued one complete, clean uniform with all accessories and insignia. Color Guard and Drill Team members may be issued an additional pair of trousers and a short sleeve blouse/shirt.

5.3. Turn-In of Uniforms, Books, and Other Equipment. Cadets will return all items issued except for shoes and socks or pay for them at the end of the school year or upon disenrollment during the school year. Books must be returned in the same condition that they were issued, minus normal wear and tear. CERTIFICATES OF COMPLETION OF MILITARY TRAINING, REPORT CARDS, TRANSCRIPTS, AND/OR ANY OTHER OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS WILL NOT BE RELEASED UNTIL ALL JROTC UNIFORMS, COURSE MATERIALS, AND EQUIPMENT ARE RETURNED OR PAID FOR BY THE STUDENT. COLLECTION ACTION CAN ALSO BE INITIATED THROUGH THE APPROPRIATE AGENCIES.

5.4. Recommendations to Prevent Paying for Items. To prevent paying for uniforms, books, and equipment, we ask cadets to:

5.4.1. NOT leave items unattended or in unlocked or shared lockers

5.4.2. NOT lend items to other cadets

5.4.3. NOT allow others to turn in accountable items

5.4.4. NOT carry flight caps with books but tuck them under the belt properly on the left side

5.4.5. PLACE their name in their hat

5.4.6. TURN IN any found uniform items to an AFJROTC instructor or to the school’s Assistant Principals’ office

5.4.7. RETURN uniform items that become worn or otherwise unserviceable to the ASI. If unserviceable due to normal wear and tear, item will be replaced at no cost. If a uniform item does not fit, return promptly for replacement.

5.4.8. NOT launder the service dress pant, flight cap, service dress jacket, and light weight all-purpose jacket in the standard washer and dryer. These items must be DRY CLEANED only. The blue short sleeve shirt may be laundered at home or dry cleaned.

5.5. Uniform Wear Standards. Cadets will wear the uniform as prescribed by AFI 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance, and this handbook. Refer to Figures 5.1 through 5.10 for proper uniform wear and combination standards. When participating in orientation flights or field trips, the SASI/ASI will prescribe the uniform to be worn in a memorandum.

5.6. Uniform (Day) Policies and Shoulder Cords. On the Wednesday mandatory uniform day, cadets will wear the uniform combination designated by the SASI/ASI. Cadets will be inspected on uniform wear and personal appearance on uniform days using an inspection sheet that evaluates proper uniform wear and grooming standards. The ASI will prescribe who can wear specialized uniform items such as cords, berets, shoulder tabs/arc pins, and ascots and when they can be worn, and how they will be worn and maintained.

Cadets on special teams and senior cadet staff will be issued shoulder cords to wear on the left shoulder. The shoulder cord will be worn only on the light blue shirt and the service dress coat. Colors to denote different honors or leadership positions will be used. Colors will be as follows (not all inclusive):

Cord Designator

Rope Colors

Group Commander: Double Red

Deputy Group Commander: Single Red

Command Chief: Blue w/single citation

Inspector General/Stan Eval: Single Black

Director of Training: Single Orange

Operations Commander: Single Blue/White

Support Commander: Single Blue/White

Communications Commander: Single Blue/White

Logistics Commander: Single Blue/White

Flight Commanders: Single Yellow

Flight Sergeants: Single Light Blue

Flag Security Detail Commander: Single Green

Armed/UnArmed/Color Guard: Single Silver

Marksmanship/Rocketry Commanders: Blue/Yellow

Element Leaders: Single White

5.6.1. Each cadet will ensure their uniform is ready for inspection upon entering the classroom on the designated uniform day or for other mandatory uniform formations. PLANNING AHEAD is the key. Assemble the uniform, iron shirts, and polish shoes the night before. "The uniform is in the cleaners, is too small, or I am missing uniform items" are not reasons for not wearing the uniform. Cadets must coordinate beforehand with Logistics if they need replacement items from the supply room. Cadets not wearing the uniform on scheduled uniform days or events will receive a zero if they do not present a legitimate reason from their parent or guardian. The reason must state why the cadet was not in uniform which must then be approved by the SASI or ASI. If a cadet is absent and is excused in accordance with school policies, there is no penalty on grading. Cadets may make up any missed uniform day by wearing the uniform and being inspected the first day of their return (during the same grading period). Cadets must present an excused absence admission form to the SASI/ASI upon their return to school. SASI will consider disenrollment after three failures to wear the uniform during any grading period.

5.7. Uniform and Civilian Clothing. Cadets will not mix uniform and civilian clothing. No portion of the blue service uniform maybe worn with civilian clothing. If a cadet has a legitimate reason not to wear the uniform or any uniform item due to medical conditions, he/she must present medical documentation and receive a SASI/ASI waiver.

5.7.1 Physical Training Gear (PTG) / Uniform. All cadets are issued Physical Training Gear (shorts and shirt) and must dress out and participate on the Physical Training day as established by the academic schedule. Failure to dress out or participate will negatively impact their grade. Cadets will wear either the unit issued PTG or the Air Force issued PTG. The short sleeve shirt will be tucked into shorts or running pants always. Do not roll up, remove or cut sleeves. Short and long sleeved white, black or light gray form fitting undershirts, (i.e. spandex, lycra or elastic material) may be worn and visible under the short-sleeved PTG shirt. Undershirt must be tucked in. The optional Air Force long sleeved sleeve shirt will be tucked into the shorts or running pants always. Do not push up, remove, or cut sleeves. The optional Air Force sweatshirt will extend no lower than six inches below the natural waist line. Do not push up, remove, or cut sleeves. The running Short/Running Pants waistband will rest at or within two inches of the natural waistline (NO SAGGING). Both pant legs will extend below the ankles and will be zipped to within one inch of the bottom. The shorts’ (with reflective material) and optional running shorts’ (without reflective material) waistband will rest at or within two inches of the natural waistline (NO SAGGING). The lining in the Air Force shorts may be removed. Short, mid and full-length solid black, white or dark blue form fitting sportswear (i.e. spandex, lycra or elastic) may be worn and visible under both the running shorts.

5.7.1.1. Athletic Shoes and Socks. Socks are mandatory with footwear. Socks will be white or black and may have small trademark logos. Athletic style shoes are mandatory to safely participate in physical training and to receive a participation grade.

5.7.1.2. Civilian Clothing. Physical Training Gear items are authorized for wear with conservative civilian/personal attire during individual/personal PT or while not participating in formal AFJROTC physical training (e.g. PT shirt with personal shorts/pants, PT jacket with personal shirt/pants/shorts, etc.). No civilian/personal items with offensive wording, graphics or photos are to be worn with the PT items at any time.

5.7.1.3. Grooming Standards. All personal grooming standards (i.e., males must be clean shaven, etc.) apply while participating in physical fitness activities with one exception; long female hair will be secured but may have loose ends and may extend below the collar; i.e., ponytails.

5.8. Name Tag. Cadets will wear the standard Air Force blue name tag, with white, block style letters engraved on the plastic, secured with clutch-type fasteners on their short or long sleeved blue shirt. Name tag size is 3 3/16 x 5/8 inches with 1/4-inch lettering. Males wear the blue name tag over the right breast pocket, flush, centered and even with the top seam of the pocket. Females place it on an imaginary line parallel to the ground, centered, even with to 1½ inches higher or lower than the first exposed button on the wearer’s right. The Brushed Satin Silver finish name tag must be worn on the Service Jacket by all cadets. The Satin Silver name tag for the Service Dress jacket is worn centered on the wearer’s right, between the sleeve seam and lapel and the bottom of name tag will be parallel with bottom of ribbons. The name tags will be provided at no cost when a cadet joins JROTC. If the name tags are damaged or lost the cadet must replace them at their own cost.

5.9. Prohibited Activities When Wearing the Uniform. Cadets may not hitch hike, perform labor, engage in sports activities, or do anything that would dishonor the uniform. Furthermore, questionable behavior in school or in public while wearing the uniform creates an unfavorable impression of the AFJROTC program, our school, and the Air Force. Conversely, proper conduct and pride reflects favorably upon the cadet and enhances the corps’ image throughout the community. Thus, wear the uniform PROUDLY and constantly strive to present a neat, clean, and well-groomed appearance always. Cadets will not wear headphones while in uniform nor talk and walk on their phone while in uniform. Cadets may be able to wear head phones while performing physical activity at the approval of the SASI or ASI.

5.9.1 PDA: When in uniform or civilian clothes (in an official capacity), cadets must not engage in public displays of affection (PDA) including, but not limited to, holding hands (except when holding a young child’s hand), walking arm-in-arm, embracing, caressing, and kissing. Public displays of affection are inappropriate as they violate a long-standing custom of the service and may be service discrediting since indiscriminate displays of affection detract from the professional image the Air Force intends to project to the public.

Brief displays of affection, such as a modest kiss or embrace, may be permitted in situations where physical contact is commonly accepted etiquette such as weddings, graduation, promotion, or retirement ceremonies; and upon departure for or return from deployments.

5.9.2 When in uniform or civilian clothes (in an official capacity) the following actions are prohibited while walking or in a formation, including organized or unit PT. Do not stand or walk with hand(s) in pocket(s), except to insert or remove an item. Do not smoke or use smokeless products. Do not consume food and/or beverage while walking in uniform. Exception: Beverages may be authorized during wear of PT uniform and the SASI/ASI may authorize food and/or beverage consumption during special functions. Note: While walking in uniform, use of personal electronic media devices including ear pieces, speaker phones or text messaging is limited to emergencies or when official notifications are necessary. Military customs and courtesies take precedence.

5.9.3 Eyeglasses/Sunglasses/Contact Lenses. Will be worn in the manner for which they are made. Eyeglasses and sunglasses will not be worn around the neck or on top/back of head or exposed hanging on the uniform.

Eyeglasses and sunglasses may have conservative ornamentation on non-prescription sunglasses or eyeglasses, frames may be black or brown material or gold or silver wire. Brand name glasses may be worn with small logo on frames or lenses. Logo may contrast with frame color or lenses. Conservative wrap-around sunglasses may be worn. Conservative, clear, slightly tinted or photosensitive lenses are authorized. Faddish styles and mirrored lenses are prohibited. Sunglasses (to include darkened photosensitive lenses) are not authorized in formation. Exception: Sunglasses are not authorized in formation, unless for medical reasons, e.g., PRK/lasik surgery and when authorized by a commander or commandant on the advice of a medical official.

Contact lenses will be natural looking in shape and design. They will be clear in color and not change the color of the cadets’ natural eye color.

SECTION B -- MALE UNIFORMS

5.10. General Policy. There are two combinations of male cadet uniforms. The Service Dress Uniform which includes the coat, shirt, trousers, and accessories; and the Service Uniform which includes the short/long sleeve light blue shirts, trousers, and accessories. See this handbook and the Leadership 100 textbook for proper placement and maintenance of authorized uniform accessories.

5.11. Belt. Dark blue with silver tip, 1¼ inch wide and worn by threading through the belt loop to the wearer's left. The silver tip extends beyond the buckle to the wearer's left with no blue fabric showing. The male cadet "gig" line is the straight line formed by the front edge of the shirt, the belt buckle, and the trousers fly. Check frequently to ensure the "gig" line is straight.

5.12. Coat, Service Blue. With arms hanging naturally, sleeves should end ¼ inch from the heel of the thumb. Bottom of the coat should be fingertip length when hands are slightly cupped. All buttons must be buttoned and NOTHING is carried in outside pockets. Flat items may be carried in the inside pockets. The coat may be removed in classrooms to avoid binding or wrinkling, or in the media center when it becomes uncomfortably warm, or when a lab coat must be worn. It will NOT be unbuttoned or removed in public areas (hallways, common areas, or cafeteria). When removed it will be hung up or carefully draped over the back of a chair. The coat must be put back on and BUTTONED before leaving the classroom. The coat will have the unit patch on the right sleeve and the AFJROTC patch on the left sleeve.

5.13. Cap, Service (Round). May be worn by 3^rd or 4^th year cadet Officers ONLY. It is purchased by the cadet for their own personal use.

5.14. Cap, Blue Garrison ("Flight Cap"). Worn at all times when outdoors and in uniform. The cap must be placed in the proper position on the head when exiting and going outdoors and removed when entering indoors at the time you pass through the door. It will be worn slightly to the wearer's right with vertical creases of the cap in line with the center of the forehead and in a straight

line with the nose. The cap extends approximately 1 inch from the eyebrows in the front and the opening of cap is to the rear. If not worn, tuck under the belt on wearer’s left side, between the first and second belt loops (cap will not fold over belt or be visible

below service coat). The crown will not be crushed. Flight caps will not have an officer silver braid. Cadet officers will wear the cadet officer rank on their flight cap to differentiate between enlisted and officers.

5.15. Jacket, Light Weight, Blue Windbreaker. Must be zipped up at least one-half way up and may be worn indoors. Sleeve cuff, collar, and side sizing tabs on lower side hems must be buttoned. The windbreaker will not be worn over the service dress jacket or with civilian clothing. The jacket will have the unit patch on the right sleeve and the AFJROTC patch on the left sleeve.

5.16. Shirt, Light Blue, Short Sleeve with Epaulets. With arm bent at a 90-degree angle, the bottom of the sleeve should barely touch or come within one inch of the forearm. This shirt may be worn with a tie, the shirttail is pulled down into the trousers tightly and tucked at the sides to make it nearly form fitting. Shirt garters are highly recommended! The only creases on the shirt are down the sleeves. Nothing may be carried in the shirt pockets.

5.17. Socks. Socks must be BLACK dress (not athletic). Other dark colors are not authorized.

5.18. Tie, Blue. The tie is secured by either a Windsor or four-in-hand knot. The tip of the tie must cover a portion of the belt buckle and not extend beyond the belt buckle. Cadets are authorized to wear a tie tack or clasp bearing the official Air Force Coat or emblem. See Figure 5.7.

5.19. Trousers, Dark Blue. Trim fitted with no bunching at the waist or bagging at the seat. The bottom of the trousers will rest on the front of the shoes with a slight break in the creases. The back of the trouser leg will extend approximately 7/8 inch longer than the front. The trousers must be of matching material to the service coat and the cap. The rear pocket of the trousers will always be buttoned and articles should not be bulky and visible. The zipper tab will be pressed down to permit the fly to be neatly closed.

5.20. Shoes. Black oxfords. Shoes will be laced to the top and highly shined. The soles and heel edges may be coated with sole and heel dressing. Optional high gloss black shoes or patent leather are authorized at the cadet's own expense for eligible 3rd or 4th year cadets only. Corfram low quarters may be worn by 3^rd or 4^th year cadets if purchased at their own expense. AFJROTC issued corframs may only be worn for Team performances or Color Guard presentations.

5.21. Undergarments (T-Shirts) will be worn with the uniform and will be conservative, commercial style, white in color with no writing on them. The white undershirt must be a V-neck and will be worn with all service and dress uniforms; the white crew-neck style undershirt is authorized ONLY when wearing closed collar service and dress uniforms. Undershirt will be tucked into trousers.

SECTION C--MALE PERSONAL APPEARANCE

5.22. Hair must be clean, neat, and trimmed always, not just in uniform, well-groomed, present a professional appearance, allow proper wear of headgear and conform to safety requirements. Will not contain excessive amounts of grooming aids (e.g. gel, mousse, pomade, and moisturizer), appear lopsided, touch either eyebrow, or end below an imaginary line across the forehead at the top of the eyebrows that is parallel to the ground. If applied, dyes, tints, bleaches and frostings must result in natural hair colors. The hair color must complement the member’s complexion and skin tone. Examples of natural hair colors are brown, blonde, brunette, natural red, black or grey. Prohibited examples (not all inclusive) are blue, purple, maroon, orange, fluorescent or neon colors.

5.22.1. Wigs/Hairpieces/Extensions. Are authorized and will meet the same standard required for natural hair, be of excellent quality, fit properly, and comply with safety, functionality and professionalism. (Note: Extensions are still prohibited for males.) Wigs/Hairpieces/Extensions will not be used to cover unauthorized hair styles. Synthetic hair or other materials are not authorized when prohibited by safety and mission requirements.

It must have a tapered appearance on both sides and the back of the head, both with and without headgear. A tapered appearance is one that when viewed from any angle outlines the member's hair so that it conforms to the shape of the head, curving inward to the natural termination point without eccentric directional flow, twists or spiking. A block-cut is permitted with tapered appearance. Hair will not exceed 1¼ inch in bulk, regardless of length and ¼ inch at natural termination point; allowing only closely cut or shaved hair on the back of the neck to touch the collar. Hair will not touch the ears or protrude under the front band of headgear. Cleanly shaven heads, military high-and-tight or flat-top cuts are authorized. Prohibited examples (not all inclusive) are Mohawk, mullet, cornrows, dreadlocks or etched design. Men are not authorized hair extensions. See Figure 5.8 for sideburns, mustache and beard and for graphic examples of male hair standards.

5.22.2. Sideburns. If worn, sideburns will be straight and even width (not flared), and will not extend below the bottom of the orifice of the ear opening. Sideburns will end in a clean-shaven horizontal line. See Figure 5.8, orifice of the ear opening is at reference point A.

5.22.3. Mustaches. Male Cadets may have mustaches; however, they will be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) and will not extend downward beyond the lip line of the upper lip or extend sideways beyond a vertical line drawn upward from both corners of the mouth. See Figure 5.8, reference points B, C, and D.

5.22.4. Beards. Beards are not authorized unless for medical reasons, when authorized by the SASI on the advice of a medical official. If the SASI authorizes, cadets will keep all facial hair trimmed not to exceed ¼ inch in length. Individuals granted a shaving waiver will not shave or trim any facial hair in such a manner as to give a sculptured appearance. If necessary for medical reasons, facial hair will be kept neat and conservative (moderate, being within required limits (not more than ¼ inch); not excessive or extreme), as defined by the SASI.

5.23. Jewelry: Earrings/Gauges/Facial Piercings are not authorized while in uniform. Males will not wear earrings or gauges anywhere in the AFJROTC area and during practices. Optional piercings and tattoos will not be visible anywhere in the AFJROTC area and during practices or in uniforms.

5.23.1 Watches. Must be conservative and only one can be worn around the wrist while in uniform, PTG, or civilian attire in an official capacity. Conservative examples (not all inclusive) are solid color black, brown, silver or gold. Prohibited examples are diamond-covered, neon, bright colors, and bands that exceed 1-inch width.

5.23.2 Rings. Cadets may wear a total of no more than three rings. Rings will be worn at the base of the finger, and will not be worn on the thumb.

5.23.3 Necklaces. Will not be visible at any time. If worn, they will be concealed under a collar or undershirt.

5.23.4 Bracelets. Ankle bracelets are not authorized. Cadets may wear one bracelet around their wrist. If worn, the bracelet will be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) (which is defined as plain, not drawing attention or faddish) in design, no wider than ½ inch, gold or silver in color, and will not have any inappropriate pictures or writing. Medical alert/identification bracelets are authorized; however, if worn, they will be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) (which is defined as plain, not drawing inappropriate attention or faddish). Gemstones/tennis bracelets may only be worn with the mess dress uniform. Bracelets espousing support for cause, philosophy, individual or group are not authorized (Exception: Traditional metal POW/MIA/KIA bracelets, which come in colors besides silver, bronze, or gold, remain authorized).

SECTION D--FEMALE UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS

5.24. General Policy. There are two combinations of female cadet uniforms. The Service Dress Uniform which includes the coat, blouse, slacks, and accessories and the Service Uniform which includes the short/long sleeve light blue blouses, slacks, and accessories. See this handbook and the Leadership 100 textbook for proper placement and maintenance of authorized uniform accessories. Female cadets may wear the male version of the lightweight blue jacket, belt, and flight cap.

5.25. Service Coat, Blue. Coat should follow the contours of the figure but allow ease of movement without pulling in the back of the waist. The sleeves should come to the base (heel) of the hand. The coat and slacks or skirt must match in color shade and material. Items will not be carried in the jacket pockets. Coat may also be taken off in the classroom to avoid binding or wrinkling. It will not be removed in school public areas such as hallways, common areas, or the cafeteria. The coat will be put on and buttoned before leaving the classroom.

5.26. Flight Cap, Blue. Worn at all times when outdoors and in uniform. The cap must be placed in the proper position on the head when exiting and going outdoors and removed when entering indoors at the time you pass through the door. It will be worn slightly to the wearer's right with vertical creases of the cap in line with the center of the forehead and in a straight line with the nose. The cap extends approximately 1 inch from the eyebrows in the front and the opening of cap is to the rear. If not worn, tuck under the belt on wearer’s left side, between the first and second belt loops (cap will not fold over belt or be visible below service coat). The crown will not be crushed. Flight caps will not have an officer silver braid. Cadet officers will wear the cadet officer insignia on their flight cap to differentiate between enlisted and officers. The top of the female flight cap does not have to remain in a closed position. The top of the cap may be spread apart to accommodate the head and hair.

5.27. Hose. Commercial sheer, nylon hose in black or off-black, dark blue, dark brown, or neutral color that complements the uniform and the cadet's skin color. Patterned hose is not allowed. Hose must be worn only if wearing skirt.

5.28. Socks. Black, socks without design will be worn with slacks and oxfords.

5.29. Jacket, Light Weight, Blue Windbreaker. Should fit loosely over the hips when zipped. Cuffs of the sleeves should cover the wrists but not extend beyond. Over blouse is not exposed below the jacket. Jacket must be zipped up at least half way and may be worn indoors.

5.30. Blouse, Light Blue, Short Sleeve, and Pointed Collar. Blouse is worn tucked in and may be worn with a tab.

5.31. Slacks, Blue. Will fit naturally over the hips with no bunching at the waist or excess fullness in the seat. Bottom of slacks will rest on the front of the shoes with a slight break in the creases. Back of the slacks will extend approximately 7/8 inch longer than the front. Slacks are tailored to straight hanging and any alterations to modify the leg shape must be approved by the ASI. Articles carried in the pockets will not be visible or present a bulky appearance.

5.32. Skirt, Blue. Will be free hanging with zipper closure on the left hip. Length will be no shorter that the top of the kneecap and no longer than the bottom of the kneecap. Hose will be worn with the skirt.

5.33. Undergarments will be worn with the uniform and will be conservative, style, and white or skin tones in color. Sports bras must be a neutral color as to not be seen through the physical training uniform shirt. Neon and bright colors are prohibited.

5.34. Shoes. Cadets will be issued black oxford shoes to be worn with uniform. Shoes will be laced to the top and highly shined. Optional scotch grain black leather or high gloss finish pumps are authorized for female cadets at their own expense for 3^rd or 4^th year cadets only. Corfram low quarters may be worn by 3^rd or 4^th year cadets if purchased at their own expense. AFJROTC issued corframs may only be worn for Team performances or Color Guard presentations. Heel height must not exceed 2 1/2 inches. Shoes will have plain closed toe and heel, and will not have any ornamentation such as bows, buckles, or straps.

5.35. Purse. May carry a small, black purse. The standard Air Force purse may be purchased and carried at the cadet's expense. A backpack may be carried but will not interfere with the proper wearing of the uniform.

SECTION E--FEMALE PERSONAL APPEARANCE

5.36. Jewelry. Gauges/Facial Piercings are not authorized while in uniform. Optional piercings and tattoos will not be visible anywhere in the AFJROTC area and during practices or in uniforms. Female cadets will not wear or carry exposed on the uniform, pencils, pens, handkerchiefs, or jewelry to include ankle bracelets. One bracelet is permitted if it is neat and conservative and not wider than one inch. No rubber bands or the popular colored (i.e., yellow) cause bands will be worn in uniform. Female cadets may wear wristwatches, identification bracelets, and pearl, silver, diamond, or gold stud earrings if they do not extend or dangle below the bottom of the ear lobe.

5.36.1 Earrings. Female Cadets may wear small (not exceeding 6 mm in diameter), round or square, conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) white diamond, gold, white pearl, or silver earrings as a set with any uniform combination. If a cadet has multiple holes, only one set of earrings are authorized to be worn in uniform and will be worn in the lower earlobes. Earrings will match and fit tightly without extending below the earlobe unless the piece extending is the connecting band on clip earrings.

5.36.2 Bracelets. Ankle bracelets are not authorized. Cadets may wear one bracelet around their wrist. If worn, the bracelet will be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) (which is defined as plain, not drawing attention or faddish) in design, no wider than ½ inch, gold or silver in color, and will not have any inappropriate pictures or writing. Medical alert/identification bracelets are authorized; however, if worn, they will be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) which is defined as plain, not drawing inappropriate attention or faddish. Bracelets espousing support for cause, philosophy, individual or group are not authorized (Exception: Traditional metal POW/MIA/KIA bracelets, which come in colors besides silver, bronze, or gold, remain authorized)

5.36.3 Watches. Must be conservative and only one can be worn around the wrist while in uniform, PTG, or civilian attire in an official capacity. Conservative examples (not all inclusive) are solid color black, brown, silver or gold. Prohibited examples are diamond-covered, neon, bright colors, and bands that exceed 1-inch width.

5.36.4 Rings. Cadets may wear a total of no more than three rings. Rings will be worn at the base of the finger, and will not be worn on the thumb.

5.23.5 Necklaces. Will not be visible at any time. If worn, they will be concealed under a collar or undershirt.

5.37. Hair. Must be clean, neat, and trimmed always, not just in uniform, well-groomed, present a professional appearance, allow proper wear of headgear and conform to safety requirements. Will not contain excessive amounts of grooming aids (e.g. gel, mousse, pomade, and moisturizer), appear lopsided, touch either eyebrow, or end below an imaginary line across the forehead at the top of the eyebrows that is parallel to the ground. If applied, dyes, tints, bleaches and frostings must result in natural hair colors. The hair color must complement the member’s complexion and skin tone. Examples of natural hair colors are brown, blonde, brunette, natural red, black or grey. Prohibited examples (not all inclusive) are blue, purple, maroon, orange, fluorescent or neon colors.

Wigs/Hairpieces/Extensions. Are authorized and will meet the same standard required for natural hair, be of excellent quality, fit properly, and comply with safety, functionality and professionalism. Wigs/Hairpieces/Extensions will not be used to cover unauthorized hair styles. Synthetic hair or other materials are not authorized when prohibited by safety and mission requirements.

There is no minimum hair length to a maximum bulk of 3 ½ inches from scalp and allows proper wear of headgear (see Figure 5.8 and Figure 5.10). Hair will end above the bottom edge of collar and will not extend below an invisible line drawn parallel to the ground, both front to back and side to side. Bangs, or side-swiped hair will not touch either eyebrow, to include an invisible line drawn across eyebrows and parallel to the ground. (See Figure 5.8). When in doubt, assess correct length of hair with Cadet standing in the position of attention. Exception: While wearing the Physical Training Gear (PTGU), long hair will be secured but may have loose ends and may extend below the bottom edge of the collar

5.37.1. The intent is for pinned-up hair to be styled in a manner that prevents loose ends from extending upward on the head. For example, when using a clip or hairpins, hair will not present the appearance of a rooster tail. When hair is in a bun, the bun must be a single bun; no wider than the width of the head and all loose ends must be tucked in and secured. When hair is in a ponytail, it must be a single ponytail; that does not exceed bulk and length standards and does not extend below the bottom of the collar (except while in the PTG). As with all hairstyles, a neat and professional image is essential.

5.37.2. Hair accessories. If worn, black hair accessories like fabric scrunchies, hairpins, combs, clips, headbands, elastic bands and barrettes are authorized regardless of hair color. Hair must still comply with bulk and appearance standards. Headgear must fit properly. Headbands or fabric scrunchies will not exceed one-inch in width. Ornaments are not authorized (i.e., ribbons, beads, jeweled pins). See Figure 5.10 (photo of scrunchie)

5.37.3. Braids, twists, micro-braids, French braids, Dutch braids and cornrows are authorized. A braid or twist is two or more portions of interwoven hair. If adding additional hair, it must be a natural looking color, similar to the individual's hair color. It must be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) and not present a faddish appearance. Hair must not exceed bulk and length standards and must not extend below the bottom of the collar (see Figure 5.8 and Figure 5.10). Headgear must fit properly.

5.37.3.1. All braids/twists, when worn will be of uniform dimension, no wider than one inch, with natural spacing between the braids/twists and must be tightly interwoven to present a neat, professional and well-groomed appearance. When worn, multiple braids shall be of uniform dimension, small in diameter (approx. ¼ inches), show no more than ¼ inch of scalp between the braids and must be tightly interwoven to present a neat, professional appearance. A braid/twist must continue to the end of the hair without design and following the contour of the head and may be worn loose or in a secured style within hair standards in paragraph 5.37 above. Exception: Micro-braids or twists are not required to continue to the end of the hair.

5.37.4. Unauthorized: Mohawk, mullet or etched design.

5.37.5. Hair color, highlights, lowlights, and frosting will not be faddish or extreme and will be natural looking hair color, like the individual’s hair color (e.g. black, brunette, blond, natural red, and grey).

5.38. Cosmetics: Male Cadets are not authorized to wear cosmetics. Female Cadets may wear cosmetics; however, if worn, they will be conservative (moderate, being within reasonable limits; not excessive or extreme) and in good taste. Female Cadets will not wear shades of lipstick that distinctly contrast with their complexion, that detract from the uniform, or that are extreme colors. Some examples of extreme colors include but are not limited to, purple, gold, blue, black, bright (fire-engine) red, and fluorescent colors.

5.39. Finger nails: Male Cadets are not authorized to wear nail polish. If worn by females, nail polish will be a single color that does not distinctly contrast with the female cadet’s complexion, detract from the uniform, or be extreme colors. Some examples of extreme colors included, but are not limited to, purple, gold, blue, black, bright (fire engine) red and florescent colors. Do not apply designs to nails or apply two-tone or multi-tone colors; however, white-tip French manicures are authorized. Fingernails must not exceed ¼ inch in length beyond the tip of the finger and must be clean and well-groomed. Fingernails must not interfere with the performance of assigned duties. Fingernails must not hinder proper fit of prescribed safety equipment or uniform items.

SECTION F--GENERAL UNIFORM AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE COMMENTS

5.40. Replace buttons promptly. Buttons on the service dress are oxidized silver as are most of the insignia. DO NOT polish.

5.41. Trim loose strings ("cables") and frayed seams on the uniform.

5.42. Necklaces, pendants, and other conspicuous adornments are prohibited.

5.43. Ribbons, Medals and Devices. All authorized ribbons and devices must be worn. Ensure they do not become frayed or soiled. Cadets may wear ribbons earned while enrolled in other JROTC programs. Four Civil Air Patrol ribbons (General Spaatz, Earhart, General Mitchell, and General Curry) may also be worn. Normal order of wear is AFJROTC, CAP, and then other service ribbons grouped by service and by year achieved. Medals and ribbons will not be worn together.

5.43.1. Ribbons will be worn in order of precedence as listed on the Ribbon Chart (Figure 5.9). Ribbons of the least importance are worn to the wearers bottom left. Ribbons are then added in ascending order till the most important ribbon is on the top row to the far right as worn (see figure 5.9). Ribbons will be centered, resting on, but not over the edge of the pocket on the wearer’s left.

5.43.2. Medals and ribbons may be worn simultaneously for formal, semiformal, and/or special occasions. Place medals on the mounting rack in the proper order of precedence. The top row of medals should be positioned ½ inch below bottom row of ribbons.

5.43.3. Devices will be worn and added to ribbons and medals to show each subsequent awarding of that ribbon/award. Wear regular devices on regular medals and regular ribbons. Wear all the same size devices. A bronze device will be added for each awarding of the ribbon. Replace the bronze device with a silver device after receipt of the fifth bronze device.

Place silver devices to the wearer’s right of bronze devices. Place clusters horizontally and tilt slightly downward to the wearer’s right to allow maximum number of clusters and other devices on the ribbon. Tilt all or none. (See Figure 5.9)

5.43.4. Methods of affixing devices on medals and ribbons. When affixing separate devices to a ribbon, center device

and space equally.

5.44. Gum chewing, SMOKING or use of any tobacco product, and playing of portable music players, or cellular phone are prohibited.

5.45. Umbrellas. Umbrellas will be plain, solid colored black and carried in the left hand.

5.46. Religious Apparel. “Religious apparel” is defined as apparel worn as part of the observance of a religious faith practiced by a Cadet. Religious items and apparel, other than head covering, may only be worn visibly during religious services. Plain, dark blue or black religious head coverings may be worn, indoors if approved by the SASI. Plain, dark blue, or black religious head coverings may be worn, concealed under the uniform/headgear, outdoors if approved by the SASI. Religious apparel will not be worn during parades, ceremonial details, ceremonial functions, or in official photos.

5.47. Handheld Electronic Devices. Electronic devices are small electronic equipment such as cellular phones, MP3 or similar players, radio, or hands-free devices (e.g. Bluetooth®), pedometers, Fitbits™ and other small, conservative size fitness trackers. Handheld electronic devices, if worn on the belt/waistband, or clipped to a purse will be plain black, silver, dark blue, or gray. Handheld electronic devices that are not worn on the belt/waistband/or clipped to a purse can be any color. Holster and other storage devices used to attach handheld electronic devices to the uniform or purse will be plain black, silver, dark blue, or gray. One handheld electronic device may be attached to a belt/waistband on either side or clipped to a purse. Pedometers can be worn on boots/shoes with uniform but must be dark blue or black in color and can attach without interfering with the work area or causing a safety hazard. Fitbits™ and other small conservative fitness trackers may be worn on the wrist in uniform but must be dark blue or black in color and bands may not exceed 1-inch width. Exception: Color and band width (may be up to 1 ½ inch width in physical fitness uniforms). Restrictions for Fitbits™, pedometers and other small, conservative size fitness trackers do not apply when worn with physical fitness uniforms.

5.47.1 Wear/use of an earpiece, any blue tooth technology or headphones, while in uniform, indoors or outdoors, is prohibited, unless specifically authorized for the execution of official duties. (Exception: Headphones and earphones (IPods, MP3 type players, etc.) are authorized during physical training, during individual or personal PT in the fitness center or on designated running areas unless prohibited by the SASI. Use of a hands-free device is authorized while in uniform operating a motor vehicle if local policy permits.

5.47.2 While walking in uniform, use of personal electronic media devices, including ear pieces, speaker phones or text messaging is limited to emergencies or when official notifications are necessary. Military customs and courtesies take precedence.

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THE UNIFORM MUST BE WORN PROPERLY ALWAYS. IT MUST BE CLEAN AND WELL PRESSED. THE CADET MUST PRESENT AN OVERALL APPEARANCE OF NEATNESS AND PRIDE. REMEMBER...WHEN IN UNIFORM, YOU BECOME A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE -- A PROUD SERVICE WITH AN OUTSTANDING REPUTATION AND A HISTORY OF SACRIFICES.

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