The driving aesthetic of military style is uniformity. Whence the word uniform. From first inspection to Arlington National Cemetery, soldiers look like those around them: same hat, same boots, identical white grave marker. They are discouraged from looking unique, because that would encourage them to feel unique, to feel like an individual. The problem with individuals is that they think for themselves and of themselves, rather than for and of their unit. They're the lone goldfish on the old Pepperidge Farm bags, swimming the other way. They're a problem.
The concept of military style revolves around the idea of uniformity, which is integral to the functioning of armed forces. Soldiers are dressed alike, from their hats to their boots, to maintain a cohesive identity within their unit. This discouragement of individuality is intentional, as unique expressions could foster personal thoughts and feelings that detract from group cohesion. The emphasis on sameness ensures that soldiers place the needs of their unit above their personal identities, adhering to a collective purpose rather than individual desires.
This focus on uniformity extends beyond mere appearance; it plays a critical role in military culture and discipline. Individuality, likened to a goldfish swimming against the current, can disrupt the harmony of the unit. Instead, by fostering a sense of sameness, the military cultivates a mindset where soldiers think and act collectively, prioritizing team objectives and obedience over personal expression. In this way, the military ensures operational efficiency and solidarity among its members.
