CAMP FOSTER - Due to recent changes in the III Marine Expeditionary Force/Marine Corps Bases Japan Liberty Policy, Marine Corps leaders are directing their Marines and sailors to observe and follow new regulations regarding liberty procedures.

However, one policy still remains the same: clothing regulations.

Civilian clothing regulations for Marines and sailors attached to III MEF/MCBJ have not changed with the new order. However, Marine Corps leaders emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive image of the military here on Okinawa.

"This is probably one of the simplest regulations to adhere to, but there are those who will say that it interferes with their ability to be themselves. No harm in being yourself but be a team member and dress appropriate as you do so," said Sgt. Maj. Timothius Robinson, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma sergeant major. "If you leave home and you have to pull your clothing up or down every few steps because it's too revealing, please consider not wearing those items away from home."

Currently, examples of civilian attire are posted in high traffic areas on base to include the Post Exchange, gyms, and clubs. These posted reminders show both proper and improper civilian clothing.

Marine Corps leadership highlight the importance of wearing appropriate civilian clothing off base as well as on base.

"Even when you think no one is watching, rest assured you are being watched and someone is taking note of how well you are dressed even in your civilian attire," said Robinson. "Contrary to popular belief, the local populace knows that there are civilian attire regulations in place, and when you are observed failing to abide by such simple regulations, they tend to see you as one who may be inclined to violate other regulations that are in place."

"The wearing of civilian attire should be a matter of personal pride. Each individual is considered at all times to be an [unofficial] ambassador of the United States while serving in Japan and, as such, individual dress and conduct should reflect credit upon oneself and the United States," according to the order.

The following is a list of rules and regulations for the proper wear of liberty attire.

Headgear
Removal of headgear (covers, ball caps, headdress, etc.) is mandatory inside all facilities aboard MCBJ unless in uniform and under arms. Recognized religious apparel is authorized for wear. Camp commanders may authorize club managers to waive headgear restrictions for special events such as Western Nights, Sports Nights, etc. Hats/ballcaps will be worn square on the head, bill facing forward, as intended by design. Hair nets, wave-caps/doo rags, handkerchiefs, or nylon socks on the head are prohibited outside of living quarters.

Shirts/Blouses
Shirts/blouses will be clean, serviceable and worn in the same manner as the uniform service shirt. The size and fit of the shirt/blouse will mirror a neat appearance similar to that of the male or female long sleeve or short sleeve service uniform shirts. Excessively baggy clothing will not be worn. Shirts may be worn untucked as long as they do not hang below crotch level, provided they are straight cut across the bottom. All shirts/blouses with a tapered tail will be tucked in. Those shirts/blouses that are not tucked in, such as the Hawaiian styles, must reflect a neat appearance.

Uniform and civilian undershirts are not appropriate as outerwear. Also prohibited as outerwear, are all tank-top style shirts/jerseys, halter-tops, tube tops, swimsuit tops and see-through mesh tops. Such clothing is acceptable only while physically participating in sports/physical training activities or while at the pool or beach. Sundresses and similar styles of female clothing that are sleeveless are considered to be appropriate attire.

Jerseys with sleeves are acceptable, provided they are straight across the bottom and do not hang below the crotch. The wearing of excessively oversized shirts are not appropriate. Designer/casual warm up style suits may be worn as liberty attire. They will be clean, neat and conservative in appearance. No service related or style of sweat suits may be worn as liberty attire, with the exception of the new Marine Corps running suit jacket.

Trousers/Shorts/Skirts
Clean and serviceable trousers or shorts, with a belt (if belt loops are present) are the standard. The size and fit of trousers, shorts or skirts will resemble the appearance and style reflected by the proper wearing of uniform trousers or skirts.

Excessively oversized trousers are not appropriate. Soiled, frayed, torn, or excessively faded items will not be worn. Also prohibited are trousers that expose any portion of the underwear or buttocks as well as those that are excessively "baggy" or hanging off the buttocks. Skirts, trousers, blue jeans and shorts that have not been properly hemmed are prohibited. These items should be a fit to maintain proper modesty.

Footwear
Appropriate serviceable footwear will be worn. Sandals (with or without heel straps) are authorized for leave and liberty. Shower shoes (rubber thong style flip flops), dive booties, bare feet, etc., are prohibited away from living quarters except for wear to and at the beach or pool.

Prohibited Clothing
Clothing which has been altered, cut or is otherwise worn in a manner to present an abbreviated covering, or sexually provocative appearance is prohibited. Specifically prohibited are articles of clothing where the midriff is exposed.

Any garment, to include caps and hats, inscribed, printed or bearing patches with slogans, words, pictures, symbols or print which may be interpreted by a reasonable person to be profane, sexually suggestive or obscene is prohibited. This includes garments that are supportive of or oriented towards the glamorization of alcohol, or any other illegal activity, including the use of illegal or illicit drugs. Any garment bearing designs, insignias, patches or print that may be interpreted to be directly and clearly derogatory to any ethnic, racial, religious group, to any military service or nation, or to the flag, logo or symbol of any nation are prohibited.

Clothing which is obviously tattered or soiled will not be worn. This includes trousers which have torn, ragged holes in knees, upper legs, etc. Athletic attire, such as running shorts, sweat suits, and tank tops, is appropriate for athletic events and fitness centers. Athletic attire described above is prohibited in mess halls, retail stores, clubs, restaurants or working spaces.

"Military Police and Camp Guard will issue Minor Offence Reports when violations are observed. Violators who cannot make an immediate correction to their civilian clothing will be directed to return to their quarters to make the appropriate correction," according to the Liberty Policy order.

"We will continue to be unwavering in our commitment to maintain exemplary, high standards of professionalism. The liberty policy change is designed to promote good order and discipline and reduce off-base misconduct. This change will ultimately serve our interest in reaffirming the trust, confidence and rapport with our local community," said Lt. Gen. Terry G. Robling, commanding general of III MEF and commander of MCBJ.