SHIPBOARD DAMAGE CONTROL, PERSONNEL PROTECTION, FIREFIGHTING AND CBR-D
 MUSEUM WEBSITE
 
DAMAGE CONTROL MUSEUM
DC EQUIPMENT Museum
 
Protective Clothing
 
Dungarees
 
The blue dungaree utility trousers and shirt were specially made for U.S. Navy Sailors, pay grades E-6 and below. They were part of “The Navy Uniform of the Day,” with general issue low-cut leather shoes, for 75 years. In the 1970s, flame resistant dungarees replaced the old style uniform.

Dungaree utility trousers were constructed from 12-ounce, 100% cotton, medium weight, blue denim fabric. They were double-needle constructed and had two front and back pockets, with a separate waist band and belt loops. The leg was bell bottom.

The dungaree utility shirt was light blue and long sleeved. It was constructed from 6-ounce, 100% cotton, light-weight blue chambray fabric.

Dungarees were worn when the ship went to general quarters. Sailors tucked trouser legs into their socks, buttoned up their shirt at the collar, and buttoned their shirt sleeves to improve protection. They then donned a steel battle helmet and put on a life jacket around the waist. This attire was called battle dress. They were then ready to investigate areas as directed by the repair locker officer or chief. If they were part of a fire party, they also donned a breathing apparatus.
Image of Dungarees
For more information, see the Index.