Dyess Airmen present professional image Published Sept. 10, 2008 By 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- In keeping with Air Force policy, Dyess Airmen are required to wear a combination of the blues uniform on Mondays, as of Sept. 8. Dyess is implementing the wear of blues in accordance with a letter dated Sept. 4 from Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton A. Schwartz, who discussed the issue with other senior leaders at a recent four-star conference. "By wearing blues, we want to remind ourselves, the leaders in Washington, D.C., and the American public that we are poised professionals, confident in our ability to get the job done," said Lt. Col. Brad Barnette, 7th Bomb Wing Director of Staff. Prior to Sept. 11, 2001, blues were the primary duty uniform for most Airmen, because "part of our image, culture and professionalism is instilled in our blues," according to General Schwartz. However, after 9/11, Airmen began wearing the battle dress uniform, and now the Airman battle uniform, to foster the warrior ethos amongst our Airmen. Additionally, it serves as a visible reminder to the public that we are in the fight against the Global War on Terrorism both in the AOR and in garrison, Colonel Barnette said. "That warrior mindset hasn't changed just because we're now wearing blues one day out of the week," Colonel Barnette emphasized. "Our Airmen are as willing and capable as they ever were to complete the mission." However, wearing blues looks professional, and "when you look good, you feel good," said the B-1 aviator. "I think it's a positive change, and it gives us the opportunity to show that we do fit the professional image of the American Airman." In his entire Air Force career, the colonel said he hasn't worn his blues very often because he was always flying. He said wearing blues once a week makes him feel as a part of the larger Air Force Team; the visible differences disappear that distinguish air crew members and "the rest of the base"; and shows that "we're one team with one fight." There is an exception to the "blues on Mondays" rule: Airmen who work in centers or functional areas where wearing blues would create safety hazards or would not be appropriate will still wear utility uniforms, or BDUs/ABUs, to perform their jobs. "We certainly would never want to compromise the safety of our Airmen. Those who require additional personal protective equipment or utility uniforms will continue to wear them," Colonel Barnette said. "The purpose of wearing blues is to look professional while proving that we can accomplish the same mission as we did before." Editor's note: the 7th Bomb Wing commander's policy is forthcoming.