The VCA has worn the uniform of the U.S. Army since early in its founding. Today the soldiers of the Veteran Corps of Artillery, State of New York are entitled by law to wear the uniform under the National Defense Act (Public No 85, 64th Congress – HR 12766) It states:

“All Corps of Artillery, Cavalry or Infantry existing in any of the States on the passage of the Act of May 8th, 1792, which by law, custom or usage of said States has been in continuous existence since the passage of said Act under its provisions and under the provisions of Section 232 and Section 1625 to 1660, both inclusive of the title 16 of the Revised Statutes of 1873, and the Act of January 21st, 1903, relating to the Militia, shall, be allowed to retain its ancient privileges, subject nevertheless to all duties required by law of Militia; Provided, That said organizations may be a part of the National Guard and entitled to all privileges of the Act, and shall conform in all respects to the organization, discipline and training of the National Guard in time of War.”

Yes. The VCA wears the uniform of the U.S. Army (with identifying devices), and, as such must represent the U.S. Army and the VCA in the same professional manner as those on Active Duty. The VCA conforms to U.S. Army Regulation AR 670-1 as it relates to uniform and grooming standards. In general, the VCA conforms to standard U.S. Army regulations. Soldiers not in compliance are subject to disciplinary action or discharge.

Yes, any soldier in the VCA who has earned federal or state award, medals, devices, tabs, etc. can wear them on their VCA uniform. However, such medals and badges must be reflected on your discharge documents (e.g. DD214), and orders must be cut by the Adjutant specifically authorizing their wear on your uniform. Priorities are established by the specific service in which such decorations were earned. Any member who was entitled to wear a beret (as shown on their DD214) is entitled to wear that headgear instead of the standard U.S. Army beret.