Army Players to Wear Ivy Soldier Camo in December Navy Game

Army football players will wear a special camouflage uniform when they face Navy on Dec. 12. The gear is designed to honor the 4th Infantry Division, a military unit formed in December 1917 during World War I.

The new uniforms feature a green color scheme and pattern. A news release described the design as evoking the dense, ivy-covered foliage of Central and Eastern Europe. This visual choice pays tribute to the legacy of the Ivy Soldiers.

Ivy imagery appears throughout the outfit. It is stitched onto the gloves and cleats. The design also includes the Army West Point Athena Shield. The division's insignia sits on the left shoulder patch of the jersey and on the front of the green helmet.

The helmet carries additional historical markers. An "IV" decal is ringed by four ivy leaves. The division's motto, "Steadfast and Loyal," is printed on the visor's wings. A memorial decal for 9/11 is placed on the back of the helmet.

Nike designer Jason Cochran explained the goal of the collaboration in a news release. He stated that it is important to showcase the service academies because they are there to serve their country. Cochran added that the players are protecting their nation while playing the game they love.

The typography on the jerseys has a chiseled look. This style is inspired by memorials such as the Utah Beach monument. The back nameplate displays "IVY SOLDIERS," with "IV" in white and the remaining letters in green.

The design extends to the game balls. They feature the 4th Infantry Division's insignia and an ivy-adorned Athena Shield. The uniform's green pattern is worked into the swoosh logo. This marks the 11th consecutive year that Army, history students, and Nike have created a special uniform for the matchup.

Army coach Jeff Monken called the process a tremendous source of pride for the players. Safety Stephen Nnadozie said there is a deep meaning behind the jersey. He noted that people have died behind the units represented on the field. Nnadozie said the team does not take that responsibility for granted.

The game will be the 127th meeting between the two academies. It is scheduled for Dec. 12 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Navy has not yet announced its uniforms for the contest.