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NavyMentor
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Uniforms, ribbons & medals

Uniforms & Awards

Plain-English guides to sea-service uniforms, ribbons and medals — what each one is, when it is worn and how to wear it correctly.

2 guides

Photo by Navy Medicine on Unsplash

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Uniforms & Awards: common questions

Where do the uniform rules come from?

Each service publishes its own uniform regulations. For the Navy that is the U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations on MyNavy HR; for the Coast Guard it is the Uniform Regulations manual, COMDTINST M1020.6. We link to the official text in every guide.

Is this official guidance?

No. NavyMentor is an independent publication. Regulations change and your command has the final say, so confirm with the current official regulation before an inspection.

Can civilians buy uniform items and medals?

Many items are sold openly, and veterans and families often buy them for displays. Wearing a uniform or decorations you have not earned is restricted by federal law.