Winter Dress Blue returns 01 November

By Daren Lewis

Shipmates,
With the new Auxiliary Manual issued last year we finally have clear information on the wear period for Winter Dress Blue.

Winter Dress Blue is authorized from 01 November to 31 March each year.

Now is a great time to send your WDB shirts to the cleaners in preparation for November.

I always look forward to Halloween because it means my favorite uniform is authorized the next morning.

If you don't currently have Winter Dress Blue and would like to obtain this uniform you will find details in the Auxiliary Manual (COMDTINST M16790.1G). Details for men are found in Chapter 10 - G.7. on page 10-64. Details for women are are found in Chapter 10 - I.6. on page 10-96.

Adding Winter Dress Blue to your uniform set is only moderately costly if you already have Tropical Blue as your cover (hat) options, trousers, shoes, socks, undergarments and most devices are shared with Trops. You will need:

• Dress Blue Winter Shirt
• Male Neck Tie
• Appropriate Auxiliary metal colar insignia
• Tie clasp (optional)

The shirt can be ordered from the Uniform Distribution Center. The sizing is the same for men and women.

DRESS BLUE WINTER SHIRT (DBWS) $25.74 - http://www.uscg.mil/hr/udc/MensDressShirts.asp DRESS BLUE WINTER SHIRT (DBWS) $25.74 - http://www.uscg.mil/hr/udc/WomensDressShirts.asp

The men's neck tie is worn for men and women:

Neck Tie Male (NTM) $4.32 - http://www.uscg.mil/hr/udc/BeltsBuckles.asp

Appropriate metal colar devices are available from our District Staff Officer - Materials or the District Materials Store on http://www.shopauxiliary.com

UPDATE 07OCT2012: DCDR(e)/SO-MT asked me to remind members that these collar insignia are worn parallel  to the inner collar edges as show in Chapter 10 - Page 10-38 of the Auxiliary Manual.

The tie clasp is optional and the appropriate clasp can be purchased at the  District Materials Store on http://www.shopauxiliary.com

See you in Winter Dress Blue!