Seeing Red: The History and Honor of the Flight Deck's Red Shirts

Published by The Team at Ordnance Outfitters

A carrier flight deck is one of the most dangerous and meticulously organized places on Earth. In this symphony of controlled chaos, every person has a role, and that role is instantly identifiable by the color of their jersey. While every color is vital, one color stands out, signaling danger, expertise, and immense responsibility: red.

The Red Shirts are the specialists who deal directly with the things that make our military mighty. They are the Aviation Ordnancemen (AOs), the Crash and Salvage crews, and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians.

Why red? The choice is no accident. Red is a universal symbol for danger, warning, and importance. When a pilot sees a Red Shirt moving near their aircraft, they know the most critical and hazardous operations are underway. It’s a visual cue that demands heightened awareness from everyone on the flight deck.

The Red Shirts are entrusted with the awesome responsibility of turning an aircraft into a weapon system. They build, load, and arm the munitions. They are the first responders in the event of a fire or mishap, ready to run toward danger when every instinct says to run away. They are the experts who dispose of explosive threats safely.

Wearing a red jersey on the flight deck is more than just a uniform; it’s a badge of honor. It signifies a deep level of trust placed in you by the Navy, the Marine Corps, and every person on that ship. It means you are the expert in a field where there is zero room for error.

So, the next time you see that flash of red on the deck, know that you are looking at the keepers of the flame—the proud professionals who handle the most dangerous jobs with courage and precision.