SWAT Digest

What (Not) To Wear!
“ Fashion” tips for the Protection Specialist
By Doug Runyon

While the title of this article is a bit tongue-in-cheek, it is, or at least should be, an important concern for those performing Dignitary/Executive Protection.

First off, let’s get one thing out in the open from the very start. There is a difference between high profile and low profile details. Accordingly, there is a difference between the appearances that detail members should maintain for both. It is the latter of the two, the low profile details, that this article will focus on.

I could likely keep this article very short. In fact, a few words sum it all up very well: BLEND and BE PREPARED!
Unfortunately there are those that feel the need to buy and deck themselves out in every piece of tactical gear to come on the market. A couple of terms have popped up to describe these fashion-istas…Metrotactical and Tacticool. You’ve seen them…all decked out in their 5.11 pants and vests and scanning the horizon from behind their mirrored Oakleys. Don’t get me wrong, both 5.11 and Oakley make some great stuff, but there’s a time and place for it. For me, that’s generally on the range…not while escorting a political candidate to a fish fry.
If your principal is a corporate or political type where a conservative business suit is the norm, then you need to dress the part. If your principal is dressing down to play golf or spend some time out fishing, then you must adapt. Showing up to the local fishing hole in your Brooks Brothers suit will make you stick out like the proverbial sore thumb and vice versa.

For the more formal environments, a black, blue or dark gray conservative suit will serve you very well. Be sure to get a fabric that will hold up to the rigors of the road, yet still look good when you have to steam it in the hotel shower. And most of all, be sure it fits properly…especially with your usual beltload of gear. I recommend going to your local tailor with your gear for a private tailoring session. Most tailors will accommodate. Also consider having some special reinforcement sewn inside your jackets to prevent wear. An extra “patch” of fabric where your firearm will rub will no doubt add years to the life of most any jacket.

While dressing down sounds so much more comfortable, at times it can be even more challenging. Khakis and a button down might be in order for casual business settings, while cargo shorts and a t-shirt might be the norm for that fishing trip or walk on the beach. But this comfort comes at a price. That price is the lack of concealability for your gear. Radios, earpieces, weapons, extra ammo, flashlights, OC sprays, etc…will all require you to get creative. Backpacks, fanny packs and purses might all provide some help in this regard, but again, the less tactical looking they are the better off you’ll be.

While dressing the part is important, it’s just as important not to outdress the principal. Doing so brings unwanted attention to you. The last thing you want is for the principal to constantly have to introduce you and explain your role. Remember…BLEND.

One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is actually one many a Boy Scout is familiar with: BE PREPARED. Your go bag should contain a variety of clothing items that will enable your to adapt and blend into most any environment. Just because the itinerary only has you headed to a $1,000 per plate fundraising luncheon doesn’t mean you won’t end up on a jet ski a few hours later. BE PREPARED.

A couple of books every protection specialist should consider for his or her library have nothing to do with tactics, formations, checklists or motorcades. They’re both by John T. Molloy. One is called Dress for Success, while the other is Live for Success. While both books are a few decades old, they are so fundamental that they are timeless. Many consider them the bibles of how to dress and act in a corporate environment. Check your local book seller or one of the online book sites for availability.

In closing, remember, BLEND and BE PREPARED. Your principal should appreciate it and your job will no doubt be easier.

Doug Runyon is a Special Deputy with the Vigo County Sheriff’s Department in Terre Haute, Indiana and specializes in Dignitary/Executive Protection. He can be reached at DPG001@gmail.com.