The Dining-In and Dining-Out
Both Are Formal
Both Formal
Dining-ins and dining-outs are both formal events.
Key Difference
Key Difference
The one significant difference:
- Nonmilitary spouses, friends, and civilians may attend a dining-OUT
- The dining-IN is a formal dinner for military members ONLY
Origin
Hap Arnold Wingdings
The present dining-in format had its beginnings in the Air Corps when General Henry H. "Hap" Arnold held his famous wingdings.
British Influence in WWII
British Influence WWII
The association of Army Air Corps personnel with the British and their dining-ins during World War II also encouraged their popularity in the USAF.
Today's Recognition
Modern Purpose
Members now recognize the event as an occasion where:
- Ceremony
- Tradition
- Good fellowship
…serve an important purpose and are effective in building and maintaining high morale and esprit de corps.
Required Attire
Required Uniforms
Military members who attend these ceremonies must wear:
- The mess dress, OR
- The semiformal uniform
Civilian Attire
Civilians wear the dress specified in the invitations.
Combat Dining-In Variant
Combat Dining-In
The combat dining-in is an event similar to the dining-in because it maintains the traditional form.
Difference
Combat Difference
However, the difference is primarily in the dress and atmosphere.
Combat Atmosphere
Combat dining-ins typically celebrate the evening in some form of utility uniform in a much more relaxed environment deliberately prepared to encourage camaraderie.