Sunglasses in Uniform

Everyday eyewear, including sunglasses, may be authorized for routine wear in the U.S. military; however, it is not authorized in formation unless medically prescribed.

Accordingly, sunglasses are inappropriate for pallbearers and likewise for members of the color guard, firing party, and even the bugler. Sunglasses interrupt the essential human connection between ceremonial personnel and those they serve.

This restriction is not a matter of personal preference or appearance alone. Darkened lenses create a visual barrier, conveying separation at the very moment ceremony is intended to communicate dignity, presence, and shared solemnity. Such separation is contrary to the purpose of funeral and memorial honors.

A commonly cited exception is the Sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Their protective eyewear is specialized safety equipment, not ordinary sunglasses, and is not commercially available. This unique operational requirement does not extend to other ceremonial contexts.

For U.S. military and first responder honor guards alike, the standard is therefore straightforward: sunglasses may be worn only when medically required or when specifically authorized for unique duty conditions such as those of the Tomb Sentinels. In all other ceremonial formations, sunglasses are neither authorized nor appropriate—particularly because they diminish the visible connection to the next of kin.

That principle alone is sufficient to guide the decision:
honor guard personnel do not wear sunglasses during ceremony.

Judge’s Note — Eyewear in Ceremonial Formation

Standard:
Sunglasses are not authorized in ceremonial formation unless medically prescribed or specifically required for a unique, safety-driven duty condition (e.g., Tomb Sentinels).

Applicability:
This prohibition applies equally to pallbearers, color guard members, firing party personnel, and buglers during funerals, memorials, and other honor ceremonies.

Rationale:
Ceremonial duty requires visible human connection with the next of kin and assembled mourners. Darkened lenses create a visual barrier inconsistent with the purpose, dignity, and communicative presence of military and first responder honors.

Judging Guidance:

• Presence of unauthorized sunglasses constitutes a ceremonial appearance error.
• Evaluate without emotion or reprimand; record the deficiency and continue observation unless higher disqualification criteria are met.
• Distinguish clearly between medical necessity (permitted) and personal preference (not permitted).

Principle:
When rendering honors, nothing should obscure the solemn connection between the honor guard and those being served.