Can miniature medals be worn on army dress blues?

Answer 1

The following answer pertains only to the Army dress blue uniform, NOT the new Army Service Uniform (ASU).

From AR 670-1 (3 February 2005, the most recent revision): Chapter 29, paragraph 9, section (c)(1): "Male personnel. Miniature medals are worn centered on the left lapel, approximately ½ inch below the notch of the mess and evening mess uniforms, and will not extend beyond the edge of the lapel. Personnel may adjust placement of the medals to accommodate the wear of dress miniature badges (see fig 29-7 ). Personnel will wear miniature medals on the Army blue and white uniforms only when these uniforms are worn as formal dress uniforms (with bow tie). When worn on the blue and white uniforms, the miniature medals are worn above the left breast pocket in the same position as full-size medals (see fig 29-4 ). (See para 29-17 c for wear of dress miniature badges with miniature medals on the blue and white uniforms.)"

On the Dress Blue Uniform, mini medals go in the same location as you would wear Full-Sized medals. Just ditch the unit awards and Driver's Badge, and only wear miniature badges (jump wings, SF/Ranger tabs, etc). Of course, this is only for formal events (where you trade out the straight necktie for a bowtie) after 1800. The Blue Dress Uniform is often confused with the Blue Mess Uniform. The Blue Mess Uniform is a short jacket, never uses full-size medals, and has the miniature medals on the lapel.

BTW, mini medals are much, MUCH lighter than wearing 12 full-size medals especially when you have to carry your cell phone and wallet in your jacket pockets.

So, yes, even when some Sergeant Major tells you you can't, and even if you're the only one at the Dining In that does it, current Army Regulations DO allow you to wear miniature medals with the formal Army Blue Uniform after retreat.

Edit about five minutes later: OK, on second thought, if your Sergeant Major tells you it's full-sized or ribbons only on Dress Blues, that's his prerogative. Local leaders can always implement a stricter standard than the regulation. Go with the guidance given by your Sergeant Major, or Commander, or Squad Leader or whatever. But if your CSM (Cdr/PL/Battle Buddy) isn't sure what the reg says, it's in AR 670-1, Chapter 29, paragraphs 9 and 17. If you're less of a smartass than I am, and can do it tactfully, CSMs love a soldier or NCO that can cite regs.

Answer 2

As of 2013, no. This has never to my knowledge been authorized. Mini medals are only for wear on the mess dress uniform.