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NEWS | May 5, 2011

"Diamond Compliance Corner" - week of May 6 - May 13

By Master Sgt. Michael Cole 89th Communications Squadron first sergeant

In accordance with AFI 36-3014, enlisted personnel are authorized to receive a supplementary clothing allowance to purchase maternity uniforms. This allowance can only be authorized once every three years if the need exists. There is no set time frame when pregnant members are authorized to wear these items, but members should be comfortable and take into consideration the safety of themselves and their unborn child. Personnel should begin wearing the maternity uniform when wear of other service uniforms is impractical. Because our bodies require time to heal and most women gain a few extra pounds during pregnancy, maternity uniforms may be worn up to 6-months after delivery.

Generally, the same standards apply to proper wear of the maternity uniform and the regular Air Force uniforms with a few exceptions. The main difference is that pregnant members (officer and enlisted) are authorized to wear the maternity jumper or maternity long sleeve shirts. When wearing the service uniform, members may wear the blue jumper with the short sleeve blue shirt. Officers will place shoulder mark insignia as close as possible to shoulder seam and button epaulets of blouse over jumper. Enlisted will wear 3 1/2 stripes as usual.

The same standards apply to the wear of the service dress uniform except the long sleeve blue shirt will be worn with the blue satin polyester herringbone twill tie tab. In reference to the maternity mess dress and semi-formal uniform (enlisted only), the long sleeve white shirt is worn and the tie tab is mandatory. The wear of all ribbons, badges, devices and nametags remain the same as regular uniforms IAW AFI 36-2903.

As far as footwear and the ABU/BDU are concerned, all standards remain the same except for a few minor changes. The ABU/BDU requirements remain the same except the pants may or may not be bloused. If not bloused, tie straps will be removed and trousers will be ankle length and hang naturally.

Of course I do not have the time to discuss every detail that pertains to the maternity uniform, but I chose to cover the most common everyday items. If you have questions that pertain to the proper wear of the uniform, please refer to the previously mentioned AFIs and as always, feel free to contact your First Sergeant.