The Evolution of the Navy Uniform
By Pete DeWolf, ET3, (’55-’57)
Albuquerque, N.M.
Q. Where did the sailor’s white hat originate?
A. In 1852 a white cover was added to the soft visor less blue hat worn by Navy enlisted. In 1866 a white sennet straw hat was authorized as an additional item. The white hat worn today originated in the 1880’s as a low, rolled brim, high domed item made of wedge shaped pieces of canvas. Canvas material was replaced by cotton as a cheaper, more comfortable material. Over the ensuing years suggestions and complains concerning the hat led to modifications that ended in the current white hat.
Q. What is the history of the petty officer rating badge?
A. In 1841, insignia called distinguishing marks were first prescribed as part of the official uniform. The first distinguishing mark was an eagle and 1893 that the rating of chief petty officer was established. Until 1949 rating badges were worn on either the left or right sleeve, depending on the watch section of the individual. The port section wore their badges on their left arm.
However, one hears the term “right arm rate” which from 1841 until 1949 denoted men of the seaman branch. These rates included boatswains mate, turret captain, signalman, quartermaster, gunners mate, fire controlman, torpedoman, and mineman. Other ratings wore the rating badge on the left sleeve.
The eagle on the petty officer rating badge is derived from the Napoleonic eagle. This eagle was usually embroidered facing left. Why the Napoleonic eagle faces left is unknown.
In 1941, the Navy changed the eagle’s facing direction to follow the heraldic rules that face right toward the wearer’s sword arm. This rule continues to apply and the eagle now faces to the front or the wearer’s right. Bluejacket slang for the eagle is “crow.”
Q. Why oak leaves as an insignia for various Navy corps and ranks?
A. Oak leaves have been worn since the earliest days as an insignia. An oak leave was probably adopted originally as a symbol of the excellent oaken ships of the United States. In those days the government had live oak logs cached underwater for years at the Boston Naval Yard and other navy yards.
Q. Why are bell bottomed trouser worn by bluejackets?
A. Bell bottomed trouser are large at the bottom because in days past sailors rolled up their pants legs for scrubbing decks. A larger leg at the bottom made it easier to roll the legs above the knees. Also, when landing a small boat, a bluejacket would jump into the surf to pull the boat onto the beach. Rolling up the trouser legs was an attempt to keep dry.
Q. Why does a sailor’s jumper have a flap in back?
A. Jumper flaps originated as a protective cover for the uniform jacket. Sailors greased their hair to hold it in place. Showers and bathing were not frequent.