I am in the Air Force, is it out of order to wear my dress blues to a funeral out of respect for the person?

Question

even though he was never in the military?

Answer 1

No absolutely not! You should wear your blues to a funeral or anything formal like that. Even though he was never in the military he probably still supported you and I am sure if he were still alive he would be proud to see you there in your blues.

Answer 2

Isn't it great how many answers you get from people who are utterly unqualified to answer your question? I don't understand that. Anyhow, I'm sure the Air Force regulations aren't as strict as the Marine Corps' so yes it is authorized. For Marines we can wear any uniform except for camouflage utilities or dress blue "A" ("A" means ribbons, but no medals that is reserved for military functions) on leave or liberty which would include funerals, weddings, etc. You are strictly forbidden from wearing a uniform to any political events or to anything commercial where it could inadvertently appear that the military endorses a particular political party, product, or company.
If you have more questions you should be able to look up the Air Force uniform regulation order via a search engine that will have the specifics for your branch, or feel free to contact me. By the way though, I would personally wear a suit since the person wasn't in the military, but that is just personal preference.

Answer 3

There is a lot more to this question than whatever military protocol says. A funeral is about respect for the deceased and his family. It's not OK to show a lack of respect for the military, but a show of respect for the Armed Forces is secondary to respect for the deceased and the family.

I think you need to consider your own preference, military protocol, and the wishes of the family of the deceased--in ascending order of importance. I would argue that military protocol is not applicable anyway, as a funeral is not a public event.

If, for example, the deceased was a pacifist or a conscientious objector, it might be seen as disrespectful to wear a uniform. On the other hand, if he encouraged you and supported you in your goal to join the Air Force, it would be very respectful to wear a dress uniform.

You call it. You know the situation better than anyone answering your question.

Answer 4

I am sure you know how wonderful these USAF men look in their dress uniforms. They are a proper thing to wear at your wedding, and it would be an honor to stand beside the man you love admiring his dress blues. The tuxedos for the rest of the men are fine, but none will look as fine as your husband to be does. You can wear any dress that you select, and the two of you will blend in together as you exchange your vows. Good luck to you both and God Bless.

Answer 5

I don't think so. I went to a funeral yesterday and a marine was in his dress uniform and the person who died was never in the military.

Answer 6

Yes. Your dress blues are for military functions only, or if you want or plan to marry in them.You are not even supposed to travel in them unless it is a mandatory platoon function.
Ask the head of your division for full regulations of class dress.

Answer 7

its not out of order because your showing that you care about that person and that you show respect towards them so its alright if you wear them to a funeral

Answer 8

I am sorry for the loss of your friend.
My niece and nephew are both in the USMC and they wore their dress uniforms to my mother's (their grandmother's) memorial service last year and I along with everyone there thought it was wonderful. We appreciate all that you do to help keep this country safe. Thank you and good luck! :)

Answer 9

wear a suit. if it's not a military function, stick to civilian clothes. you can still be respectful without calling attention to yourself. he wasn't in the military, so you don't need to wear your dress blues.

Answer 10

I don't know about military protocols but I would view it as very respectful.