In much of the civilian world, today is Casual Friday, in which at-work dress codes, if there are any, are relaxed so employees can feel more comfortable and collegial.

Not so for Marines at Camp Pendleton and elsewhere.

Starting this month, all Marines except those who are deployed are ordered to wear service uniforms on Friday. They can no longer show up in utility uniforms, often referred to as camouflage.

Depending on the season, there are two sets of acceptable service uniforms. The "bravos" consist of a long-sleeve khaki shirt with tie and trousers. The "charlies" are a short-sleeve khaki shirt with trousers and are worn during daylight saving hours.

If need be, a Marine can change into a utility uniform once he or she arrives at work in either the "bravo" or "charlie" uniform. The service uniforms are a tighter fit and will allow superiors to evaluate Marines better on fitness and adherence to uniform regulations.

"Watching Marines square their gig line away and adjust their uniform is indicative of the 'spit and polish' pride we seem to have strayed from," said Sgt. Major Michael Sprague.

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Photo: Marines in utility uniform, no longer OK on Fridays unless Marines are deployed. Credit: U.S. Marine Corps