Called ACUs (Army Combat Uniform), the suit replaces the standard BDUs (Battle Dress Uniform) that has served the Army for more than 20 years.
"It takes the place of cold and hot weather BDUs," said Sfc. Chris Jackson, Delta Company's recruiting officer.
In all, the single uniform will replace four types of Army BDUs. Advanced material allows soldiers to, theoretically, wear the new outfit in the summer and winter time with equal comfort.
Jackson said the old uniform was uncomfortable at times, even indoors. With the new ACUs, he said he could stay indoors with his sleeves rolled down in comfort.
Receiving the uniforms is a badge of honor among National Guard units since few state-side units sport the new attire.
All units rotating to Iraq which have first priority, and Jackson said, the men of Delta Company are all wearing the new uniforms while on missions in the al-Anbar Province.
Like the old BDUs, the ACUs (which cost about $80 each) come with blouse and trousers and a uniform service cap.
The new ACUs also come with a boonie cap and new brown sued boots that require no polishing. Jackson said airborne units have elected to retain their black leather boots as a mark of distinction.
Aside from being constructed of new hi-tech material, the ACUs sport new pocket designs and Velcro fasteners. There are Velcro fields on the shoulders, lapel and chest for patches, rank patches and name tags.
Identification patches and other items could be removed to hide a units identity and conceal the ranks of officers and noncommissioned officers.
The new pockets are designed at angles to allow for easier access when wearing basic load bearing equipment.
The U.S. Marines adopted similar uniforms in 2003.
Undoubtedly modern and utilitarian, Jackson said the ACUs had drawn compliments from many students and others.
But, with a slight chuckle, he said, "Some people tell me that it looks like pajama material."
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