1) Would wearing the Blouse "untucked" be considered less formal than current "tucked" version?
No, both the Tucked and Untucked version will be authorized for wear. The tucked version may be worn as long as it is in good, serviceable condition until December 2012.

2) Will it be issued or do we need to purchase them? Will they be an optional or required sea bag item?
As the untucked uniform becomes available it will be issued to recruits at Cape May as a sea bag item. For the other members of the Coast Guard, the untucked ODU will be an optional item until December 2012. All members will continue to receive CMA to purchase ODUs at the tucked rate until that time. If members want to wear the Untucked version, they will have to purchase at their own expense.

3) The untucked ODU makes some members look pregnant (They are not)...can it be tailored in order to provide a better fit?
Based on comments received during the initial field test of the untucked ODU, the shirt has been redesigned to make it fit better. Tailoring the untucked ODU is not authorized.

4) Are the current ODU belts still authorized and will we still need to put them on 'reversed' (for males)?
The standard belt for the ODU untucked and tucked versions is the Basic Riggers Belt. The black cotton belt with an attached metal attached tip colored black and an open faced black subdued buckle is an optional belt for both uniforms.

5) Will the ODU pants change along with the blouse?
The untucked ODU trousers will have the same improved fabric characteristics as the shirt; wrinkle resistant, fade resistant, and oil resistant, along with other improvements such as new cargo pocket closures with elastic across the top. The CG Shield of Freedom will be embroidered on both sides of the back pocket, which will have buttons.

6) Is this uniform always untucked or does it have to be tucked in some situations, like when underway?
The untucked OUD will remain untucked unless operating in a hazardous environment. Only the Commanding Officer or program manager may authorize tucking in the untucked ODU top.

7) Approximated how far below the belt line should the bottom edge of the ODU untucked fall?
Based on different body sizes, the approximate distance from top of the ODU cargo pockets to the bottom of the ODU top should be 0-2 inches when standing at attention.

8) How will the LE belt be worn and secured with the untucked uniform?
The MLE Program manager is making recommendations to senior leaders regarding the wear of LE gear with the untucked shirt.

9) Is the new ODU a wash and wear?
Yes. The untucked ODU has the following fabric characteristics; wrinkle resistant, fade resistant, and oil resistant. Wash and dry as care label directs. When washing, ensure all closures are fastened. Great care must be taken when ironing the ODU. Excessive heat may damage the finish. Starch should not be used on this uniform. Iron the uniform inside out to minimize gloss or shine.

10) What are the sleeve options...are they the same as the current ODU?
The sleeve roll for the untucked ODU is the same as the current ODU.

11) Can we wear the current uniform as the "untucked" version until this set wears out?
The current ODU can not be worn as an untucked version.

12) Will the Insignia wear policy be revisited for the Untucked ODU?
The insignia wear policy remains the same as worn on the tucked ODU. No metal insignias are authorized.

13) Can I wear just the new top or trousers or will I have to purchase the entire outfit?
The tucked and untucked ODUs will not be no mixed. Both the new trousers and shirt have identifiable differences. If wearing the untucked top the new version trousers must also be worn.

14) Can ODU's be purchased from other place rather than the UDC?
The UDC is the only official place to purchase the untucked ODU. By year end all CG exchanges will be offered the choice to carry the untucked ODU for official purchases.

15) What if my size is not available?
Special ordering will be available at an increased cost.

16) What Jacket is authorized to wear over the new untucked ODU?
The only authorized coat is the FWPII [extended length] or the trench coat. The windbreaker is still authorized for wear with the tucked ODU, but because of the length of the windbreaker, it will not be authorized for the untucked ODU.

17) How do I get new insignia?
All soft insignias are available from the UDC.