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Marine Corps To Unveil New Uniforms

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CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — The military has undergone a lot of changes in the past 20 years. The Marine Corps claims it is time for their uniforms to catch up.

"We're going to be the only service in the U.S. to wear this uniform," Capt. Burrell Parmer said.

The new pattern is computer-generated and lab-tested. It is supposed to blend in better than the current uniform that first appeared during the Cold War.

"It was designed for a Soviet threat, European theater, and so it was kind of designed for a specific environment in mind. This uniform is designed for a broader, wide range of environments," said Maj. T.J. Rowe, who helped design the new uniform.

The Marine response so far has been mixed.

"It's different. It's something new to get used to. I've been wearing this for six years, and it's all I've ever seen for as long as I can remember," Sgt. Jason Lay said.

There are some improvements that the military believes can win over the rank and file. Angled pockets on the chest are easier to reach into, plus pockets have been added to the sleeves -- a real bonus when you are wearing battle gear. The chest and arms of the uniform are also roomier.

The new uniforms can also be machine-washed and do not have to be ironed. The current ones require dry cleaning or ironing -- a big drain on a Marine paycheck. The new uniforms will be available later this week.

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