Base commander signs new PT apparel policy

25 Jun '11

3 min read

As the summer heat settles in at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, no doubt many service members and their families will spend more time outdoors, whether for physical training or fun. July temperatures average more than 90 degrees, which can be unbearable at times. Yet, it is important to remember particular rules and regulations concerning appropriate attire for physical training. The base commanding officer, Col. Daniel J. Lecce, signed Policy Letter 03-11, June 22, reaffirming the base's commitment to high standards.

The policy addresses appropriate attire, the use of headsets and wearing reflective belts or vests while conducting physical training.

“Many personnel simply are not following the rules and, worse, many leaders are not enforcing the rules,” said Lecce, explaining the need for the policy letter. “Marines take pride in their discipline and appearance. They also take care of each other. This policy is intended to ensure the proper appearance and safety measures are enforced on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.”

Parts of the policy are new, while others serve as reminders. One addition is the requirement to wear shirts during physical training, unless it is at the beach, training tank or pool. It has traditionally been enforced, but is now formalized.

Tank tops, sleeveless shirts and women's jog tops are only appropriate for physical training conducted outdoors. Due to safety and sanitation concerns, they are not permitted within Marine Corps Community Services facilities, including the commissary, bowling alley, library and any of the convenience stores or Marine Corps Exchanges.

Additionally, physical training apparel is never permitted to be worn in any MCCS or base facility other than fitness centers, pools and recreation areas, such as Onslow Beach. The policy does not apply to appropriate forms of civilian attire that are normally permitted in MCCS and base facilities. For regulations regarding civilian attire, reference Base Order 1020.8X.

The policy letter echoes other base orders as it references the use of headsets and wearing reflective belts. Headsets are only authorized on off-road running trails or closed roads, such as Julian C. Smith Road, which is closed in the mornings for physical training, Greenway Trail, and the running trail parallel to Holcomb Boulevard. Reflective belts or vests must be worn during physical training sessions prior to morning colors at 8 a.m. or after evening colors at sunset. All of the regulations apply to running and biking.

Lecce stated that he hopes the policy letter will reinvigorate leaders to enforce standards, and that service members will use “common sense and accepted Marine Corps standards” when it comes to appropriate attire.

“My hope is that we will tighten up,” said Lecce. “That we will start policing each other to ensure our appearance is appropriate and that we are safe. Marines are a breed apart. We hold ourselves to higher standard and take care of each other. It's our ethos.”

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

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