By the early 1980's there was a growing movement within the Armed Forces, supported by Opposition politicians, to see a return to distinctive uniforms for the three Elements. Unification had not turned out to be the total disaster that opponents had predicted, however it was felt that morale could be improved with a return to a "modernised version" of the traditional uniforms.

A return to the traditional Navy "square rig" uniform for Non Commissioned Members was contemplated, but it was generally felt that the style was not appropriate for modern naval duties. A black double breasted Service Dress uniform was adopted by the Navy for all ranks. CF pattern rank insignia was retained, however the backing material was changed from dark green to black. The Naval Pattern "flat cap" was evidently trialled for a few years but was discarded in favour of a Service Dress cap. This cap, and the women's version have an integral white cover and are worn with the MP cap badge and red cap band.

A Naval Pattern military police trade badge is worn on the lapels of the jacket by NCMs in the traditional Navy style. A white shirt and matching trousers are worn by all ranks as tropical or hot weather dress.

Male NCM's White Shirt

Female NCM's White Shirt

Male NCM's Hat

Female NCM's Hat

Female Flag Officer's (Admiral's) Hat

The Army retained the basic CF Green Service Dress, however epaulettes were added for all ranks. A summer lightweight tan uniform was also adopted, this uniform was declared obsolete in the early 1990's. Female versions of both of these uniforms were adopted as well. Berets are worn by all ranks, male and female, depending on local dress instructions. Generally, berets are worn in combat and patrol dress. Service Dress hats are now worn only by officers.

The tan Summer Lightweight uniform was intended to be the equivalent of the old Army Tropical Worsted uniform of the 1950s and 60s. It was worn with a tan shirt and CF green necktie.

Photo Credit: 28 MP Platoon
Four female Military Police of 28 MP Platoon wearing the Mess Dress version of the Army DEU uniform. A high collar white shirt with gilt buttons is worn with the standard jacket. The 33 Brigade patch is worn on the right sleeve above the rank insignia and the Land Forces insignia is worn on the right pocket.

Female General's Hat

Female Junior Officer's Hat

Male Junior Officer's Service Dress Hat

Male NCM's Service Dress Hat

NCM's Green Beret

NCM's Scarlet Beret

Air Force DEU

The Air Force version of the DEU uniform is very similar to that worn by the RCAF in the 1960's. The cut and style of the uniform is identical for all ranks, however both Officers and NCMs may have their uniforms tailor made at the member's expense. The jacket is worn with a light blue shirt and black tie. Security Branch collar badges are not worn by Air Force members, however the Military Police trade badge is worn on the right breast by all ranks. Either the beret, garrison cap or service dress cap is worn with service dress, depending on local dress instructions. The garrison hat is worn by both female and male members.

NCM's Beret

NCM's Garrison Hat

Female General's Hat

Male Senior Officer's Service Dress Hat

These pages are entirely the responsibility of the author and are in no way associated with the Department of National Defence, the Canadian Forces Military Police Branch or any other official agency.