The Navy has authorized Sailors the option to wear the black Cold Weather Parka (CWP) sleeve-style rank insignia with the Navy Working Uniform Type III (NWU Type III) in non-tactical environments.
Effective immediately, the change was announced Oct. 29 in NAVADMIN 292/20. It allows wearing of the black CWP rank insignia with the NWU Type III parka and shirt as well as with the black fleece liner for all ranks, E-4 through O-10.
The black tab is not authorized in tactical environments, or where training requires complete camouflage protection, the message said.
"This policy change is based on the feedback received from the fleet via the rank insignia wear evaluation, Question of the Day video responses regarding insignia options, and ongoing complaints regarding the limited visibility of the camouflage pattern NWU Type III rank insignia," Vice Adm. John B. Nowell, the Navy's chief of personnel, wrote in the message.
Opting for the solid black parka tab was the best decision because fleet feedback showed it provides quick and easy identification of the wearers rank at the greatest possible distance with just a glance.
In addition, the items are already approved, in production and available at the Navy Exchanges, both in select uniform stores and can be ordered online at the Navy Exchange website.
Though metal insignia are authorized for wear with the cold-weather parks, the authorization is only for the sleeve-style rank insignia. The message describes the insignia as being of "solid black fabric with color thread (gold, silver, scarlet) denoting the wearers rank," the message states.
"The back of the insignia is sewn together in the center to form a loop which facilitates placement on the NWU Type III rank tab."
Feedback and recommendations regarding uniform policy, uniform components and uniform availability are welcome and can be provided via MyNavy Portal at https://www.mnp.navy.mil/. Select Professional Resources, U.S. Navy Uniforms and *Ask The Chiefs.* Feedback can also be provided via the MyNavy UNIFORMS Mobile App.
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