HURLBURT FIELD, FLA -- HURLBURT FIELD, FLA - Chaplains assigned to Hurlburt Field, Florida, are removing officer rank insignia from their uniforms in accordance with new Department of the Air Force guidance.
The guidance, effective since June 15, 2026, directs chaplains to wear their respective religious insignias on all rank-presenting garments of the Operational Camouflage Pattern uniform. This includes the OCP blouse, patrol cap, tactical cap and outer garments.
“A chaplain is first and foremost a chaplain, and an officer second,” said the Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. “This change is a visual representation of this fact.”
The change emphasizes the chaplain’s role as a spiritual advisor while reinforcing their ministry presence among Airmen. According to a chaplain assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing the visual change has a meaningful impact on Air Commandos.
“When we have a relationship with Airmen, rank really doesn’t matter as much anymore,” said a chaplain assigned to the 1st SOW. “The thought process is that when we take off the rank and we put on a religious symbol, it makes us more approachable.”
While chaplains will no longer wear rank on their OCPs, customs and courtesies are still expected, according to DAFInstruction 90-1201. Chaplains may be addressed by their rank or by the title “chaplain.” Chaplains will continue to wear their ranks on their formal service dress uniforms.
Air Commandos seeking counseling, spiritual services, or faith-based resources can contact the Hurlburt Field Chapel by calling (850) 884-7795 or e-mailing 16SOW.HC.DL@us.af.mil.
The Hurlburt Field Chapel is located at 210 Cody Avenue, building 90203.