The new Navy Working Uniform (NWU) Type III hit the shelves at Fleet Activities (FLEACT) Yokosuka's Navy Exchange (NEX) uniform shop Jan. 4, allowing Yokosuka's forward-deployed Sailors the opportunity to purchase the new uniform a year early.

Yokosuka was originally slated to phase in the NWU Type III in 2019, but base officials and Navy Exchange Command (NEXCOM) worked together to ensure the Navy's forward-deployed forces in Yokosuka receive the uniforms this winter.

"NEXCOM did an absolutely wonderful job working with us [to get the uniforms early]," said Matthew Barnwell, general manager of NEX Yokosuka "Our great relationship with FLEACT Yokosuka resulted in the smoothest roll out of a new uniform I've ever seen."

Barnwell and Yokosuka's Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) team worked together to utilize the Gymnasium on the 4th floor of FLEACT Yokosuka's Fleet Recreation Center to display uniforms and provide temporary fitting rooms for the roll out.

"The great operating partnership between the NEX, MWR, and CFAY resulted in a large venue like Fleet Gymnasium that accommodates so many so quickly," added Barnwell.

The goal, according to FLEACT Yokosuka officials, is to equip the installation's Sailors with the new uniforms by March 1st.

The new uniforms seem to be a hit among the Yokosuka Sailors purchasing uniforms Jan. 11.

"[The new uniforms] are very light and comfortable," said Yeoman 3rd Class Kenneth Rivera of FLEACT Yokosuka. "These new Type III's off the rack feel like a broken-in NWU that you've worn for a while, so you know they're only going to get more comfortable."

"Of the working uniforms I've worn, this is my favorite- the blueberries can't even compare," said Capt. Gary Clore of U. S. 7th Fleet using the favored name of the blue camouflage. "They are a lot better and show an expeditionary mindset which is the look we need."

The excitement of new uniforms was apparent to the staff at the NEX as they fit Sailors with the Type III NWUs.

"Everyone is excited to get these so early," said NEX sales associate Ariza Takyu. "It's so nice to see the Sailors so excited and I know they will be more comfortable."

FLEACT Yokosuka provides, maintains, and operates base facilities and services in support of 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, 71 tenant commands, and more than 27,000 military and civilian personnel.

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