Military

Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform

The new "Marine Pattern" Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform - featuring the "pixel" camouflage pattern - made its long-awaited debut on 17 January 2002 at the military clothing store at Camp Lejeune, NC. The new pattern was designed for a wide array of environments. It utilizes a pattern that takes into account optical physiology and the way the mind processes visual information. The colors of the woodland and desert patterns -- mixes of greens, tans, browns and black, depending on the environment -- are similar to those previously in use by the military. A new gray pattern for urban use is also being developed. Viewed up close, the Marine Pattern appears to have small digital blocks that look like large pixels from a video monitor, as opposed to the smooth-lined abstract shapes on current uniforms. However, at a distance, the Marine Pattern blends in with numerous backgrounds.

While the "digital" or "pixel" look of the new cammies may be the most noticeable feature, there are many more features that came out of the extensive design and testing work. The new uniforms have shoulder pockets and Velcro fasteners on the chest pockets. The sleeve cuffs fasten with inboard buttons instead of outboard buttons to prevent snagging. The new uniforms are made with a half-and-half blend of nylon and cotton. The wash-and-wear material means Marines can spend less time and money maintaining their cammies. To make the new uniforms more durable, there will be special reinforcement in the knees and butt. Also, there will be insert spaces so that Marines can use knee and elbow pads. The new uniforms have angled chest pockets and angled name/service tapes.