You: defender of freedom, icon of style

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Lisa Spilinek
  • 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Hanscom Air Force Base --  Hanscom's first taste of winter weather this season came in the form of an icy and rainy mix this morning.

You know what that means -- it's time to break out your winter uniform wear -- if you haven't done so already for a recent chilly morning.

As you don your field or Gore-Tex® jacket, or perhaps your parka, I want you to remember something: be proud -- you are a style icon.

Yes, you, are a walking fashion symbol, a shining beacon of what is chic.
Perhaps you are unaware of your status among the trendy elite, but you need only look to any fashion magazine to learn that "military" is "in" and has been for years.

From patterns to cuts, designers have found inspiration in the garb of armed forces for centuries. From the tunics of the knights of the Middle Ages, the masculine simplicity of the French Revolutionary soldiers, and the World War II era of mixing powerful servicewear elements with high fashion, military members have constantly been stimuli to attire currency.

Today, is no different.

These days, camouflage is the hot statement in stores and schools across the nation.
From utilitarian pants and tops for both genders to decorative camo- and sparkle-accented shoes, belts and handbags, fashion- conscience shoppers are buying opportunities to blend with both forest and urban scenes with flair.

You might not know it, but your Battle Dress Uniform exudes a certain something -- but what?

Face it, camo is in vogue.

But why? Is it the appealing neutral color combination of brown, green, tan and black? Is it the equality of unisex styling?

Perhaps. But, I think the appeal goes beyond the superficial.

Each time you put on your uniform, you are telling everyone who sees you that you a part of the most powerful military in the world. You are publicly displaying, through your dress, your willingness to support and defend the Constitution.

In the eyes of many citizens, you are more than an individual, you are a symbol of the United States of America -- an image of strength, commitment and dedication to humanitarian efforts.

Emulation of troop wear may be more than just a desire to be cool -- it is a way to represent these intrinsic qualities associated with servicemembers.

I suppose it's a good thing our uniform doesn't come with shoulder pads, because the weight is already there.

Suddenly, retrieving your winter uniform items from the back of your closet may seem more like a proclamation instead of a simple yearly task.

I urge you to take pride in this action knowing what it means to represent the United States military. Hold your head high with confidence and remember -- you are not only a defender of freedom, you are also an icon of style.