Classic 'Dixie Cup' Hats Top Navy's Female Recruits for 1st Time

By Susan Krawczyk | Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes Public Affairs

GREAT LAKES, IL—The first female recruits at Recruit Training Command were issued April 4 their new enlisted white hats, or "Dixie cups," as part of the Navy's efforts for uniformity in service members' uniform.

While the rest of the enlisted female sailors have until Oct. 31 to begin wearing their Dixie cups, the recruits at the Navy's only boot camp have already begun to do so.

The Navy redesigned several uniform elements for sailors that improve uniformity across the force as well as improve the function and fit of their uniforms. The changes will eventually make uniforms and covers more gender neutral.

"This feels incredible as we are making a part of history," said Seaman Recruit Madeleine Bohnert, of St. Louis, as she tried on her cover. "It's really awesome how something as simple as our cover is so symbolic in regards to equality and the uniformity in the military. It's a sense of pride knowing that we are a part of getting the first Dixie cups."

During uniform issue, the female recruits lined up wearing their new covers as their Recruit Division Commanders ensured they were being properly worn.

As Engineman 2nd Class Shanice Floyd, RDC, helped adjust her recruits' covers for proper fitting, she instructed those with longer hair in braids or buns how to make correct adjustments to accommodate the Dixie cup.

"We're already part of a team and this just promotes it in a better way," said Floyd. "Junior enlisted males and females already wear the same dress white uniform so this way when we get into the same dress blues uniform we'll look more as a unit."

The Dixie cup will match the recently redesigned Service Dress Blue uniforms in jumper style for both men and women, beginning Oct. 1.

Go to the U.S. Navy's website for more.

FIRST PHOTO: Seaman Recruit Izzy Sanchez receives her white enlisted hat, or "Dixie cup," during uniform issue April 4 at Recruit Training Command. Sanchez was among the first female recruits to be issued the Dixie cup as part of the Navy's efforts for uniformity in service members' uniforms. (Sue Krawczyk | U.S. Navy)

SECOND PHOTO: Engineman 2nd Class Shanice Floyd, a recruit division commander, ensures the proper fit of Seaman Recruit Megan Marte's white enlisted hat, or "Dixie cup," during uniform issue April 4 at Recruit Training Command. Marte was among the first female recruits to be issued the Dixie cup as part of the Navy's efforts for uniformity in service members' uniforms. (Sue Krawczyk | U.S. Navy)