Navy Unveils Marine Corps-Inspired Uniform For Air Force Game

The Naval Academy football program unveiled a new alternate uniform this morning for its Sept. 11 matchup against Air Force that is inspired by the Marine Corps’ iconic “Dress Blue A” ensemble.

OORAH!!#GoNavy | #BeatAirForce pic.twitter.com/W5NKCdPpTO
— Navy Football (@NavyFB) August 16, 2021

The two uniforms share several symbolic elements, including a midnight blue jersey and royal blue pants with red trim, as well as white gloves and black cleats. The white helmet also mimics the barracks cover and features the Eagle, Glove and Anchor – the official emblem and insignia of the Marines – on one side, numbers on the other and a quatrefoil on top.

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The helmet is complete with the Marine Corps battle cry of “OORAH” on the front helmet bumper, while the motto Semper Fidelis – commonly abbreviated as Semper Fi – can be seen on the back helmet bumper and nameplate of the jersey. There’s also a special 9/11 decal affixed to the back of the helmet.

As mentioned, uniform features red trim on the numbers, collar and cuffs, as well as the pants stripe and EGA on the sleeves and hip. Famously known as the “Blood Stripe,” it was originally supposed to represent the blood shed at the Battle of Chapultepec in 1946 but has since become a way to honor all fallen and injured Marines.

This marks the first time the Midshipmen will don specially designed uniforms against the Falcons, though they’ve worn alternate uniforms for the Army-Navy Game each since since 2008. The 2010 set also honored the Marines, with the Blood Stripe on thee shoulder stripes and pants.

Navy’s game against Air Force takes place on the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and it’s expected that the Falcons will soon unveil alternate uniforms for the game as well. Kickoff at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland, is set for 3:30 p.m. on CBS.