First Sergeant’s Corner

The Airman Battle Uniform replaces the Battle Dress Uniform and Desert Camouflage Uniform. Mandatory wear date is October 2011. By June 2008 the ABU is projected to be available at AAFES clothing sales stores worldwide. To maximize service life and maintain optimum performance of near infrared, the ABU is a wash and wear uniform. Do not use starch. Do not hot press or dry-clean the ABU. Enlisted rank insignia may be pressed on the sleeves to establish a crease line on the insignia. Use low iron setting only when needed. All additional ironing is prohibited. Frequent or high temp ironing can cause fibers to weaken, degrade NIR ability, and shorten wear life. Mixing camouflage patterns is prohibited.