Marine Corps Adapts Uniform Policy Amid Camouflage Shortage

The Marine Corps has temporarily relaxed its uniform standards due to a prolonged shortage of the standard camouflage uniform. Leaders of the Marine units are now allowed to permit their service members to wear alternative uniform items, including the desert-colored camouflage combat utility uniform or flame-resistant gear. The shortage is expected to continue until at least the summer or fall of 2024, leading to this unprecedented move in a service branch known for its strict uniform regulations.
  

Key Points: 

1. Due to a shortage of the woodland-pattern camouflage combat utility uniform, the Marine Corps has permitted the use of nonstandard uniform items.
2. The alternative attire includes the desert-colored camouflage combat utility uniform and the flame-resistant organizational gear.
3. Commandant Gen. Eric Smith emphasized the importance of Marines not wearing unserviceable uniforms and indicated that corrective measures are underway.
4. The primary manufacturer, American Apparel Inc, has faced challenges producing the uniforms at fixed prices amid rising inflation and wage demands.
5. While desert cammies were once the standard summer attire until 2016, the Marine Corps made woodland cammies the year-round standard, with some exceptions.

Source: https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2023/09/29/camouflage-uniform-shortage-prompts-marine-corps-to-soften-attire-rules/