Navy Football releases uniforms commemorating United States Marine Corps
Navy football released its 2021 uniform commemorating the United States Marine Corps on Monday. The Midshipmen will debut the new threads on Sept. 11, when they host Air Force.
Inspired by the iconic “Dress Blue A” uniform, the 2021 USMC uniform shares symbolic elements from both enlisted and officer regalia. It draws parallels with white gloves, black cleats, red trim, and royal blue pants. The actual ensemble worn by a Marine is the only uniform within the U.S. Military designated to include this red, white, and blue color scheme.
The Red Stripe
Famously known as the “Blood Stripe” – this element first appeared on dress blue trousers in 1798. It was rumored to represent the bloodshed of Marines during the Battle of Chapultepec in 1846, but is more modernly known as a way to honor all our fallen and injured Marines.
Eagle, Globe and Anchor
Key representative features are highlighted on the helmet, shoulder, and pant. The Eagle, Globe and Anchor is represented on all three. The distinctive Marine Corps battle cry of “OORAH” is featured on the front of the helmet. The Marine Corps motto, Semper Fidelis, commonly abbreviated as Semper Fi, is on the back of the helmet as well as the nameplate. The quatrefoil that dons the top of the Marine officer barracks cover is displayed on top of the helmet.
The Quatrefoil
Another recognizable feature is the cross-shaped braid that dons the top of the Marine officer barracks cover. This quatrefoil officially became an authorized part of the uniform in 1859. Popular belief tells us the quatrefoil was worn on the caps of Marines fighting on the decks of ships to be easily recognized by the Marine sharpshooters located above in the ship’s rigging.
Midshipmen interested in becoming a Marine have the opportunity to participate in programs that provide further exposure to the Marine Corps. During the summer of their junior year, midshipmen learn about the Marine Corps during “Marine Week” of Professional Training of Midshipmen, or PROTRAMID. Those considering the Marine Corps must attend Leatherneck training the summer of their senior year. Leatherneck is a four-week training evolution in Quantico, Virginia. In which midshipmen are evaluated on leadership, physical training and military skills.
There are more than 70 active duty officers and senior enlisted Marines that make up the Marine Detachment assigned to the Naval Academy. Approximately 25 percent of Naval Academy graduates each year will commission into the Marine Corps through a competitive selection process, while close to 50 percent of the football players choose the Marine Corps as a service assignment.