Every Marine is defined by their character and commitment to our cause. The uniforms we wear into battle and the symbols of our Corps are tangible representations of our values and ideals. But the only way to feel the purpose and belonging that comes from winning a collective future for us all is to stand up and fight for it.  

The fabric of every Marine is their will to fight and win for our country and their cause is what stitches us together. Their uniforms may have changed over the years, but Marines’ commitment to winning a future for us all is constant. 

The Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform, or “cammies,” is the standard uniform Marines wear in garrison, during training, and while deployed overseas. The uniform is optimized to be functional in any combat setting with features and variations that camouflage Marines to their environment.  

Marines primarily wear cammies in the green print known as “woodlands,” but when deployed in desert surroundings, Marines wear a tan and brown “desert” variation. In cold-weather environments, the white and gray-patterned design is available. Each of these patterns utilizes the MARPAT (Marine Pattern) design formed by small rectangular pixels that provide better camouflage in natural settings.  

The Marine Corps Blue Dress Uniform is one of our most recognized symbols. It's the only U.S. military uniform designated to include the red, white, and blue colors of the American flag. The distinctive dress blue uniform Marines wear represents the values Marines live and has origins dating back to the American Revolution. Dress blues are worn for many events, including ceremonies with foreign officials, visits with U.S. civil officials, and formal social functions attended in an official capacity.  

There are different variations of the Dress Blues Uniform for Marine Officers and Enlisted Marines. There are subtle differences on the style depending on a Marine’s rank and the formality of the occasion.

The promotion from lance corporal to corporal is a momentous one for all enlisted Marines, as it means they have been trusted to serve our nation as Noncommissioned Officers. This designation comes with the responsibility of developing junior Marines and allows them to add the legendary "Blood Stripe" to their uniform. Traditionally, Officers, Staff Noncommissioned Officers, and Noncommissioned Officers of the Marine Corps have worn this scarlet red stripe on their dress blue trousers to commemorate the courage and tenacious fighting of the men who fought in the Battle of Chapultepec in September of 1847. Today, the blood stripe symbolizes honor and our nation's eternal gratitude for all fallen Marines.

What it means to win for our future can only be felt by fighting for it. The symbols of our Corps represent our centuries-long commitment to this cause. Learn the meaning behind the of some of the Marine Corps’ most iconic symbols.