Uniforms BDU’s and Blues
The Battle Dress Uniform or (BDU) is usually the first uniform a cadet will obtain. While the uniform is optional, it is highly recommended as a cadet needs a uniform for their first promotion and does not qualify for the $100 Curry Blues voucher until after their first promotion. Cadets will need a BDU uniform to participate in many activities and it it more comfortable for Orientation Flights and a host of other action-packed activities!
We have many partial BDU uniforms at the unit available, free of charge. If we have BDU pants, shirts, boots or caps in your size, you are welcome to it. Check with Capt Lt Kevin Thiede for details. If you did not purchase your uniform, or if you outgrow your uniform or leave the program that you return your uniform to us for the next cadet!
Vanguard Industries is the official supplier of Civil Air Patrol’s uniforms, insignia and accessories. Vanguard offers free standard shipping for orders over $35. You can order from Vanguard online or by telephone/fax.
A word about boots
The boots that Vanguard currently supplies are high-quality tactical Bates boots. While these boots are great for police, fire, military, etc., the cost about $100. Since many cadets will outgrow their boots in a year or two, we recommend a less expensive investment. We recommend searching Amazon.com for Rothco G.I. Type Combat Boot. These are 9″ boots with a Toe Cap. These can also be worn with USAF style Class “B” (blues) uniform. If money is tight, this allows you to avoid purchasing a pair of oxford for awhile. If you are absolutely certain that your feet have stopped growing and want to invest in a really great boot, then we recommend the Corcoran 10″ Original Jump Boot. They are available in the $150, are spit-shinable and will look great in any uniform you wear.
This table shows the items needed for a CAP BDU Uniform.
| Item | Vanguard.com Item number (SKU) | Price as of Jun 1, 2016 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Flat Top Cap (Sizes 6 3/4, 7, 7 1/4, 7 1/2, 7 3/4) | CAP0990M | $12.70 |
 | Black Crew Neck T-Shirt (Can be purchased locally. Any plain black crew-neck t-shirt is acceptable.) | CAP8509 | $4.30 |
 | BDU - Shirt (Check to see if the unit has one available for you at no cost! Quantities and sizes are limited, first come, first served) | 1001500 (Youth) or 1001516 (Adult) | $23.75 or $34.55 |
 | BDU - Pants (Check to see if the unit has one available for you at no cost! Quantities and sizes are limited, first come, first served) | 1001518 (Youth) or 1001524 (Adult) | $23.75 or $34.55 |
 | BDU Blue Belt with open black buckle (Check to see if the unit has one available for you at no cost! Quantities and sizes are limited, first come, first served) | 2500510 | $10.70 |
 | Michigan Wing Shoulder Patch | CAP0637U | $2.30 |
 | Dickinson County Comp Squadron Patch (Available directly from the squadron) | LOCAL ONLY | $3.00 |
 | Embroidered Civil Air Patrol strip | CAP0599K | $1.85 |
 | CAP Embroidered Name Strip | CAP0599HA | $4.30 |
 | Boot Blousers | 2650175 | $2.50 |
 | Black Boot Socks (We suggest that you purchase locally) | CAP2500K | $9.70 |
 | Black Combat Boots (See note above about combat boots) | Not Available at Vanguard.com | $59.99 |
The USAF-style Class “B” uniform or “Blues” is the basic uniform for all cadet members. It consists of the items below, plus earned grade and ribbons. Once a cadet earns their first achievement, they receive a $100 “Curry Blues” voucher that can be used at Vanguardmil.com towards obtaining the Blues uniform. Please note, a cadet must receive the voucher from Vanguard through email and follow the instructions. You must use the entire $100 voucher on one order. You cannot use the voucher on multiple orders. The voucher has a time limit and must be used before that time expires. For more information, visit the “Curry Blue Program” page at capmembers.com.
| Item | Vanguard.com Item number (SKU) | Price as of Jun 1, 2016 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Flight Cap, Male | CAP0994K | $19.45 |
 | Flight Cap, Female | CAP1015J | $19.45 |
 | Cadet Enlisted Flight Cap Device | CAP0748A | $6.50 |
 | White V-neck T-Shirt | Obtain Locally | $3.00 - $9.00 |
 | AF Blue Short Sleeve Dress Shirt (Male) | CAP1001A | $47.50 |
 | AF Blue Short Sleeve Dress Overblouse (Female) | CAP1017 | $47.50 |
 | Cadet Name Plate | CAP0599M | $3.80 |
 | AF Elastic Belt with Silver Buckle and Tip (Male) | 2500505 | $17.10 |
 | AF Elastic Belt with Silver Buckle and Tip (Female) | 2500550 | $16.45 |
 | AF Blue Trouser (Male) | CAP0993B | $59.40 |
 | AF Blue Slacks (Female) | CAP3500A | $54.00 |
 | Black Dress Socks by Bates | CAP25001 | $7.55 |
 | Oxford Patent Leather Dress Shoes (Male/Female) | CAP2800NM | $43.20 |