US Army BDU Patch Placement: Flag Positions, Military Regulations, And Correct Sides
The Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) was a standard combat uniform in the U.S. Army from the early 1980s until it was replaced by the Army Combat Uniform (ACU) in the mid-2000s. Proper BDU patch placement remains an essential aspect of military dress regulations to ensure uniformity, professionalism, and adherence to official guidelines.
In this guide, we look at correct US Army BDU patch placement to maintain authenticity and respect for military standards. Whether you’re a veteran, a reenactor, or someone wearing a BDU for Airsoft or military simulation, accurate placement is important.
Key Takeaways
- There are strict military regulations that determine BDU patch placement, and proper sewing or Velcro attachment ensures compliance and longevity.
- There are some variations between patch placement on BDU and ACU uniforms.
- The American flag patch goes on the right shoulder, as do combat patches. Unit patches for current assignments belong on the left shoulder.
- We supply high-quality custom patches in any military design you need, with high-quality craftsmanship for accuracy and durability, at competitive prices.
Table of contents
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US Army BDU Patch Placement
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Where Do Patches Go On An Army Uniform?
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What Shoulder Does The Unit Patch Go On In The Army?
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Who Wears The US Army Unit Patch?
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What Patches Go On The Right Shoulder?
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Where Does The American Flag Patch Go On A Uniform?
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What Are The Regulations For Army BDU Patch Placement?
US Army BDU Patch Placement
The standard patch placement on BDU uniforms is subject to specific regulations to ensure a professional and recognizable appearance. Let’s look at the range of patches worn on this uniform, and where they should be applied:
- U.S. Army name tape: This is worn above the right breast pocket.
- Individual’s last name tape: This one goes above the left breast pocket.
- Unit patches: These are worn on the left shoulder sleeve.
- Combat patches: The Shoulder Sleeve Insignia - Former Wartime Service (SSI-FWTS) goes on the right shoulder sleeve.
- American flag patch: This must always be on the right shoulder, with the stars facing forward.
These placements are determined by strict military dress codes. The goal is to ensure that all soldiers present a uniform, organized appearance that reflects their service history. By using custom Velcro patches, you have interchangeable insignia that can easily be updated as things change or for different assignments.
Are There Variations In BDU Placements?
Over time, we have seen BDU patch placement evolve to accommodate changing military regulations. Historically, subdued patches were chosen to maintain camouflage in combat environments, while full-color patches were reserved for garrison duty.
One major change came with the introduction of hook-and-loop (Velcro) fasteners on the ACU, as this made it easier to change or swap patches. There are also some variations between units in regiments like:
- The Army National Guard
- Army Reserve
- Active Duty
There are often slightly modified uniform guidelines for different branches, so it is crucial to know the specific instructions that are relevant to you.
Beyond this, special forces and airborne units sometimes had custom patches with unique placement rules. While the standard BDU patch placement remains consistent, and it is essential to sew military patches on properly, the historical and functional variations are important to understand.
Where Do Patches Go On An Army Uniform?
Beyond BDUs, patch placement on modern Army uniforms follow similar but updated guidelines. On the ACU, which replaced the BDU, the introduction of hook-and-loop patches instead of sewn-on patches made adjustments more straightforward.
On both BDUs and ACUs, the unit patch goes on the left shoulder sleeve. The combat patch, if applicable, is worn on the right shoulder sleeve, and the American flag patch goes on the right sleeve with the blue field of stars facing forward. These are common standards for OCP patch placement in the military.
Name tapes, like the “U.S. Army” identifier and soldier’s last name, go above the respective chest pockets. If any patches are misaligned, or the flag orientation is wrong, it could lead to uniform corrections. Understand Army BDU patch placement to ensure compliance with military regulations and a polished, professional look.
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What Shoulder Does The Unit Patch Go On In The Army?
The unit patch is also known as the Shoulder Sleeve Insignia (SSI). It is worn on the left shoulder sleeve of an Army uniform. This placement rule is applicable to both BDUs and ACUs, making it easier to identify the assigned unit of any soldier.
For an active-duty soldier, this patch identifies their current unit of assignment. The same rule applies to members of the Army Reserves and National Guard, though unit-specific variations may apply in some circumstances. Retired personnel should maintain the unit patch placement when they wear their BDU or ACU for ceremonial purposes, according to the last unit they served in.
In some cases, special operations forces or combat units have unique insignia placement requirements. It is crucial to adhere to regulations for proper identification and recognition within military ranks. Do your research if you need to learn more about the meaning of U.S. Army patches.
What Side Does The Unit Patch Go On In OCPS?
The Operational camouflage Pattern (OCP) uniform, which replaced the Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP) ACU, has to adhere to strict patch placement rules. Just like BDUs and ACUs, the unit patch goes on the left shoulder sleeve, while combat patches go on the right shoulder sleeve.
One key feature is that OCP uniforms feature hook-and-loop fasteners that make it easy to remove and replace patches in the correct positions. Soldiers may sometimes be required to adjust placement based on things like:
- Mission requirements
- Specialty assignments
- Updates in regulations
Despite these differences, unit patch placement remains a fundamental aspect of Army dress code. If you are a civilian wanting to pay homage to a certain unit, you could consider having their insignia printed on a custom baseball hat or other garment. It is only active personnel and veterans who are subject to military patch placement rules.
Who Wears The US Army Unit Patch?
The U.S. Army unit patch is an insignia worn by all active-duty soldiers, National Guard members, and Army Reservists as part of their standard uniform regulations. These patches are a symbol of the wearer’s affiliation with a particular unit, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
Veterans who served in the U.S. Army may also wear their unit patch when they wear a BDU or ACU at ceremonial events or reenactments. Historically, unit patches have played a key role in military traditions, representing things like:
- Lineage
- Achievements
- Combat service
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Learn moreWhat Patches Go On The Right Shoulder?
The right shoulder sleeve is reserved for the combat patch. The official name of this patch is the Shoulder Sleeve Insignia - Former Wartime Service (SSI-FWTS). This is a patch that is awarded to soldiers who have served in a designated combat zone, signifying their contribution to wartime operations.
Studies have shown that the self-perception of military identity is complex, and identities like loyalty and military are important for positive mental health outcomes. The SSI-FWTS represents acknowledgment and appreciation, and can be helpful for soldiers in feeling pride for their participation.
Of course, not all soldiers wear a right-shoulder patch. It is only for those who have deployed under combat conditions and are granted authorization to display it. The combat patch is an important symbol of military experience, and the right sleeve placement distinguishes individuals who have served in open combat zones from those who have not.
Where Does The American Flag Patch Go On A Uniform?
The American flag patch is always worn on the right shoulder sleeve, whether you are wearing a BDU, ACU, or OCP uniform. It has to be positioned so that the stars face forward, symbolizing the flag moving forward in battle rather than retreating.
This design choice indicates the deep respect for military tradition. It honors the U.S. Army’s commitment to constant progress. The patch can be full-color or subdued, with the latter option preferred for combat or field environments to maintain a tactical advantage.
Modern ACU and OCP uniforms usually have Velcro squares for placing patches, allowing for easy attachment and removal. On BDUs, patches were sewn on, so proper American flag patch placement had to be achieved on the first attempt.
Misalignment or incorrect orientation can result in uniform violations. Soldiers and veterans should refer to Army Regulation 670-1 to ensure they are meeting the appropriate standards.
What Side Does The US Army Patch Go On?
The U.S. Army patch is better known as the Army name tape, and it is worn on the right side of the chest. On BDUs, ACUs, and OCPs, it should be worn above the right breast pocket. With this placement, you distinguish it from the individual’s last name tape, which goes on the left side of the chest, above the breast pocket.
The correct positioning of the U.S. Army patch ensures clarity in identification. It also helps maintain uniform consistency across all service members. On older BDU uniforms, these patches were sewn directly onto the fabric, but modern ACU and OCP uniforms use Velcro fasteners to simplify modification.
Proper placement of the U.S. Army patch is essential for adhering to military dress code regulations. If you are creating a custom t-shirt to pay homage, we recommend adding the Army name tape in the correct position for an authentic tribute.
How Do You Display Army Patches Correctly?
Displaying Army patches correctly requires accurate placement, secure attachment, and routine maintenance. Soldiers are required to follow Army Regulation 670-1, which outlines official placement guidelines for things like:
- Unit patches
- Name tapes
- Combat patches
On BDUs, it is common practice to sew patches onto the uniform, but ACUs and OCPs use hook-and-loop fasteners for easier application.
To keep patches in good condition, service members should inspect their uniforms regularly and ensure correct alignment and secure attachment. Proper patch care includes spot cleaning, gentle washing, and avoiding excessive heat during drying.
A study by the Red Cross found that proper use of emblems and insignia is important to maintain the respect and confidence that is afforded them. If a patch becomes worn or detached, it should be repaired or replaced immediately to maintain uniform integrity as a fundamental part of military professionalism.
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What Are The Regulations For Army BDU Patch Placement?
Army Regulation 670-1 governs the placement of patches on BDUs, ACUs, and OCP uniforms for professionalism and uniformity. According to this regulation, patch placement is as follows:
- Left shoulder: This is where the unit patch is worn.
- Right shoulder: The combat patch goes here.
- Left chest pocket: The location for the name tape.
- Right chest pocket: This is where the U.S. Army name tape is attached.
The American flag patch must always go on the right shoulder sleeve with the stars facing forward. Over the years, there have been updates to the BDU patch placement rules, such as hook-and-loop fasteners being introduced on ACU and OCP uniforms.
Soldiers must keep up-to-date on any changes to uniform regulations. Failure to comply with official guidelines can result in uniform corrections or disciplinary action. Proper BDU patch placement ensures a professional and standardized appearance, so think carefully about it when you create custom embroidered patches with military insignias.
Frequently Asked Questions About US Army BDU Patch Placement
What Is The Correct US Army BDU Patch Placement?
Correct BDU patch placement requires adhering to Army Regulation 670-1:
- Unit patch: Left shoulder sleeve.
- Combat patch (SSI-FWTS): Right shoulder sleeve for those who have served in combat.
- American flag patch: Right shoulder sleeve with the stars facing forward.
- Name tape: Above the left chest pocket.
- U.S. Army name tape: Above the right chest pocket.
- Rank insignia: Centered on the collar for BDUs.
Maintaining correct BDU patch placement is crucial for uniform compliance, professionalism, and military tradition.
Where Does The American Flag Patch Go On A Uniform?
The American flag patch is worn on the right shoulder sleeve, and the blue field of stars must face forward. This ensures that the flag appears to be moving forward in battle.
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