Priority Crisis: AF Ponders Uniform Change

Why are Air Force staff members designing and analyzing new uniforms? (Click link below to view article) Last I checked we are a nation at war. It seems to me all our efforts should be focused on winning it. Staffers that are spending their time redesigning uniforms are being improperly utilized while we are a nation at war. The Secretary and Chief of Staff of the Air Force do not need to be distracted by inquiries about the status of a new uniform at this critical time. WHERE ARE THE PRIORITIES?

First, our commanders, leaders and staffers need to be TOTALLY COMMITTED TO THE CRITICALLY IMPORTANT ISSUES we are facing now (like fighting and winning the War on Terror, maintaining our force, convincing our politicians to fund research and development of future aircraft and equipment, fixing our internal problems, welfare of our airmen, etc).

Second, new uniforms cost MONEY. Our budget has already been slashed beyond bare bones. How can our Air Force leaders even ponder shaving 125 MILLION DOLLARS from the mission in favor of "LOOKING STYLISH"? We could buy 15 MQ-9 Predator UAVs with that money to fight the War on Terror!

Third, the uniform is part of OUR TRADITION, and the men and women that wear the uniform should wear the same uniform that I wore and that the next generation will wear. The only acceptable reason for change is OPERATIONAL NECESSITY.

Fourth, and of least importance, that uniform is not practical, would be uncomfortable and extemely warm with that neckline, and it looks ridiculous.

I suggest General Schwartz cut orders and send the staffers that ordered and worked this proposal to Iraq and Afghanistan. There, they would be much better utilized and would get firsthand experience to "recage" their priorities. They've obviously been sitting in their air conditioned offices at the Pentagon for too long with too much time on their hands and have lost track of "the mission".

New Air Force Uniform