Military Careers, Retirement - Air Force Times

Retireees: Uniforms and Insignia

Military retirees and veterans can wear uniforms and medals long after separation.

More than anything else, common sense and dignity govern when and where a military retiree can wear a uniform. For formal occasions, retirees and veterans can wear the current uniform or the last one worn on active duty. A local commander can authorize the wearing of other uniforms.

Active-duty enlisted members who retired as officers in the reserve or National Guard can wear the uniform and insignia of their commissioned ranks.

Retirees who teach military education can wear a uniform during the work day.

Wearing a uniform is forbidden for business or personal gain or while participating in an event that may cast the military in an unfavorable light.

Retirees should not wear uniforms overseas unless asked to do so. The customs and laws of many countries restrict or forbid foreigners from wearing uniforms or military insignia.

In uniform, retirees can wear any medal, campaign ribbon or decoration they were authorized to wear while on active duty or in reserve status.

Medals and miniature medals are appropriate with formal wear, such as a tuxedo. On other occasions, ribbons are suitable with uniforms.

Wearing a foreign decoration is appropriate only if at least one U.S. decoration also is on the uniform. Lapel pins that come with decorations for valor and service can be worn almost any time.