The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office received the North American Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD) Best Dressed Award in the sheriff’s office category during a reception in Orlando. Developed to recognize the critical role uniforms play in law enforcement and public safety, the awards honor both the wearer and supplier of the apparel program.
“We feel that it is important to look professional at all times,” said Sheriff Mike Lewis for the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office. “If a law enforcement officer looks professional in uniform they tend to be respected more than officers whose appearance doesn’t measure up.”
The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office uses its uniforms, which includes a blouse with tie, shoes, campaign hat and gun belt, during parades, ceremonies, funerals, reviews and official social functions.
Now in its 36th year, the Best Dressed Public Safety Awards is open to all public safety departments across North America. Participants must submit a completed entry form, as well as photographs depicting the various uniforms in their program. An independent panel of experts reviews each department’s professional appearance and uniform diversity, paying close attention to detail and written standards.
“There is nothing more comforting to a community than an easily identifiable, uniformed police officer, particularly in a time of crisis,” said Richard J. Lerman, President and CEO of the NAUMD. “In law enforcement, a visible, uniformed public safety presence on the street, at a mall or other institution can add a sense of security and help comfort the public or allay fears.”
Since officers have varying assignments and patrol details, there are many factors to consider, including the following: Does the uniform fit the job function? Is the appearance neat and do the garments fit properly? What role do fabrics play in the overall look? Most importantly, can the public immediately identify the wearer as a professional, law enforcement officer?
About NAUMD
The North American Association of Uniform Manufacturers & Distributors (NAUMD) has served as the voice of the uniform and image apparel industries since 1933. Its 500+ members include manufacturers, designers, producers, and retailers of uniforms, as well as those who produce products and services for the industry at large.
