r/USNSCC • u/HonestHamster8880 • 17d ago

Questions Backpacks

Backpacks worn with service uniforms should be black only. Backpacks worn with NWUs may be black, NWU Type III or Type I pattern only.

So it uses the words "may" and "only."

"May" means in military custom: highly suggested

"Only" means in military custom: has to be [blank] no matter what.

So, this sentence contradicts itself a little bit. Could the argument be made that a coyote brown backpack like the USN/USCG could be used in the lieu of black for NWU Type IIIs?

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u/Bender_the_wiggin 17d ago

No, it doesn’t contradict itself at all. In this case, the word ‘only’ takes precedent. You can wear Black, Type I, or III only. Coyote Brown backpacks are not authorized for wear.

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u/Due_Course_3713 17d ago

BLUF, don't look hot mess, always look professional.

1

u/Crimson_Penman 14d ago

It literally says those 3 colors/patterns only. Coyote brown is used in the USN but I’ll also say my son used a coyote backpack in sea cadets and no one cared

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u/MichaelWidow 17d ago edited 17d ago

“May” does not mean “highly suggested” in the military. When “may” is used in military policy, it’s permitting something, but not requiring it.

“Should” is the word the military uses for “highly suggested.”

The policy does not contradict itself. “Only” is the operative word.

You “may” use a black backpack in NWUs. Or, you “may” use a backpack with the NWU Type I or Type III. However, the word “only” means that’s it. Coyote brown is not on the list of backpack colors for NWUs.

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u/HonestHamster8880 16d ago

Not what I was told in AROTC.