In honor of the 10th anniversary for those who lost their lives in the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, we at Lone Star Uniforms would like to spotlight the 9.11 Collection from 5.11 Tactical. The 9.11 Collection beautifully commemorates the anniversary, and 5.11 Tactical donates all proceeds to the FDNY Foundation and the

National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Today, I’ll explain the purpose of these organizations, and I’ll also include images of some of the items from the 9.11 Collection. If you’re interested in purchasing any of the items shown, click on the image and you’ll be taken to its product page.

FDNY Foundation

The FDNY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that supports the New York City Fire Department. The organization relies on donations, and uses the funding in a multitude of ways. First, the funding allows firefighters to go out into the community and educate the public about fire safety, CPR, and household hazards. The FDNY also uses public safety announcements, websites, multimedia, and outreach campaigns to reach the widest possible audience.

Inner city students can take advantage of the FDNY’s intensive educational program that puts them on the fast track to earning an EMT certificate. Juveniles at risk for committing arson benefit from the FDNY’s intervention program, which has a zero recidivism rate among participants.

The funding also enables the FDNY to offer counseling and support to FDNY families. If a firefighter dies, the FDNY helps the family make final arrangements, coordinates transportation, and helps with benefit applications. Families of fallen or injured firefighters may also be eligible for scholarships to help ease the burden of education costs.

The foundation also provides extensive training and education to firefighters, provides state-of-the-art equipment to the FDNY, and helps fund important research related to firefighting techniques and prevention. And since the FDNY is the largest municipal fire department in the United States and second largest in the world, their research impacts fire departments all over the world.

If you’re interested in learning more about the FDNY Foundation or donating directly to the organization, visit their website at http://www.fdnyfoundation.org/.

National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund was founded in 1984 to honor law enforcement officers in the United States. The Memorial Fund built and maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, which honors over 19,000 U.S. law enforcement officers who have been killed in the line of duty throughout the history of the United States.

On May 13 of each year, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund holds a candlelight vigil at the Memorial in Washington to honor fallen officers and to add new names to the Memorial. Over 20,000 officers and survivors attend the event, which is part of the National Police Week, also organized, in large part, by the Memorial Fund.

In 2000, President Bill Clinton and the United States Congress approved plans to build a National Law Enforcement Museum in Washington, DC. The museum is set to open in late 2013 and will be funded not by taxpayer dollars but rather private donations to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. It will be the largest and most comprehensive museum honoring law enforcement officers.

The museum will offer a glimpse into the past, present, and future of law enforcement in America. It will house law enforcement artifacts, and will offer hands-on, interactive features to give visitors a feel for a day in the life of a law enforcement officer. Exhibits will include history time capsules that capture the essence of law enforcement from the 1600s to the present, a forensics lab, a theater, a Maglite Tools of the Trade exhibit, and a hall of remembrance.

To learn more about the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund or to donate directly to the organization, visit their website at http://www.nleomf.org

September 11, 2001 was the deadliest day in the history of law enforcement, and 10 years later, the nation is still reeling from the pain needlessly inflicted upon it that day. Organizations such as the FDNY Foundation and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund are dedicated to bringing peace, support, and strength to those who serve. You can support these organizations and show your solidarity with those who serve by purchasing 9.11 Collection items or by making a private donation.

Thank you for reading the Lone Star Uniforms blog. Have a great weekend!

Labor Day is coming up, and for many Americans, that means three glorious days of camping. Some prefer to camp with only the bare necessities, and some pretty much transport the contents of their home to the campground. I am of the mindset that camping is an opportunity to enjoy nature, and you should bring just enough gear that you’re comfortable but not so much that it’s burdensome. Today, I’ll introduce you to some camping essentials, all of which are available at Lone Star Uniforms.

The first thing you’ll need is a good water-resistant pack. The RUSH 72 pack by 5.11 Tactical is designed for a three-day excursion, making it the perfect choice for a long weekend. It features tough, water-resistant 1050-denier nylon that will easily support the weight of your gear and protect it from the elements. The RUSH 72 pack offers plenty of compartments and pockets, so each piece of equipment has its proper place. Webbing on the front and sides allows you to attach certain items using a carabiner. The reinforced hydration pocket allows you to carry a hydration bladder, eliminating the need for a separate hydration pack. This pack is incredibly versatile, and can be used for travel and school in addition to camping.

Even when the days are hot, nights can get quite cool, especially when you’re in the woods. You’ll want a good quality sleeping bag that will keep you feeling comfortable, and the Atlanco Snugpak Sleeper Lite sleeping bag is a great choice. It’s rated to 18°F, but because it’s so lightweight, it will help you sleep easy in a wide range of temperatures. The Snugpak rolls up into a manageable 56-ounce, 16″ x 8″ pack.

A shovel is one of the most important tools for camping, and it’s also one of the most overlooked tools by novice campers. A shovel can be used to dig a trough around a campsite, keeping water at bay. You can use it to dig a pit for a bonfire, move hot coals, and scoop dirt onto a fire to put it out. It also makes quick work of digging a small hole when nature calls. The Atlanco GI Spec shovel is 23 inches long, and folds up to 9.5 inches, making it compact and portable.

Every camper needs a good flashlight, and a headlamp is especially useful. A headlamp allows you to illuminate a particular area while keeping your hands free for setting up camp, building a fire, or cooking. It’s also the perfect light source for hiking, because it’s readily available. The Septor headlamp by Streamlight features seven ultra-bright LEDs, and three settings allow you to control brightness. On the lowest setting, it will run for a full 150 hours, more than enough for your weekend excursion.

When you’re camping, it’s important to carry a knife. You’ll need it for cooking, cutting rope and branches, and of course, whittling twigs that will efficiently spear marshmallows for optimal roasting. The X-Frame folder knife by Coast is six inches long and folds to three and a half inches, making it useful for camping but still very portable. The blade features a straight section as well as a serrated section. The straight section makes smooth cuts, ideal for cooking. The serrated part is good for sawing through rope. The clip allows you to secure the knife to your belt, pocket, pack, or boots, so it’s always ready to use. And at just $10.13, it’s a great value.

These are just a few of the great camping products that we sell. Visit Lone Star Uniforms for great prices on outdoor essentials. Have a great Labor Day, and happy camping!

First and foremost, the United States Postal Service requires that all postal shirts, blouses, and bottom wear be wholly manufactured in the United States. Footwear must bear an SR/USA label and be slip-resistant and water-resistant. Additionally, shoes and socks must qualify as domestic source end products.

Shirts

United States Postal Service employees can choose from a few styles of shirts, including long sleeve and short sleeve button-down shirts, shirt/jacs (like the one shown), and polo shirts. Shirts for letter carriers must bear the USPS emblem. USPS button-down shirts and shirt/jacs were previously made with a light blue polyester and cotton blend fabric with navy and red pinstripes. However, the last remaining U.S. company to manufacture the pinstripe fabric recently went out of business, forcing the USPS to switch to a plain postal blue poplin fabric. USPS employees can continue to wear the pinstripe shirts, but new shirts will be manufactured with the plain fabric. At Lone Star Uniforms, we will continue to sell the pinstripe shirts as long as possible, as some of our customers prefer the old style. Shirt/jacs like the one shown are left untucked and worn without ties or any outerwear except rain jackets. Knit shirts are tucked in, and can be worn with neckwear and outerwear.

Bottom wear

Letter carriers are required to wear trousers, shorts, culottes, or skirts in a postal blue fabric with a navy blue ornamentation stripe on the outseams. Post office clerks can wear trousers, shorts, culottes, or skirts in either heather gray or navy blue. Shorts, culottes, and skirts should be knee length. Our trousers, made by Fechheimer, are available in tropical and winter weights, and are made from 100% polyester, making them incredibly durable, comfortable, and machine-washable.

Outerwear

USPS letter carriers deliver mail in all weather conditions, and they require outerwear that keeps them feeling comfortable throughout their shifts. USPS employees can choose from fleece jackets, parkas, vests, windbreakers, and rain pants. These items feature reflective stripes and the USPS emblem. The parka shown is designed for all types of weather, including rain, wind, cold, and snow. It’s waterproof and windproof, but still breathable. It also resists abrasion and fading, so it will continue looking sharp for many years.

Footwear

The United States Postal Service requires that letter carriers wear black leather footwear that bears a visible SR/USA label, indicating that the shoes are slip-resistant and made in the United States. Thorogood makes a complete line of American-made, postal-certified footwear. The boots shown feature a 6″ height, providing support and stability for the ankle. These are ideal if you carry mail in hilly areas.

At Lone Star Uniforms, we offer a complete collection of postal uniform apparel, footwear, and accessories. Visit our postal store today for all your USPS uniform needs! Thank you for reading the Lone Star Uniforms blog!

1. 5.11 Tactical 9/11 memorial hat: Everybody loves a good baseball cap. They’re great for everyday activities like working out, catching a game, or just relaxing. This 9/11 memorial hat from 5.11 Tactical is perfect for public safety professionals who want an everyday baseball cap that also helps them show their solidarity with the men and women who risked their lives on September 11th, 2001. This meaningful gift is just $13.50, and 5.11 Tactical donates all proceeds from these hats to the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial Fund and the FDNY Foundation. It’s like giving two gifts in one!
2. HWC Equipment Chaos sunglasses: For some public safety professionals, expensive sunglasses can be well worth the cost. The Ascend sunglasses by 5.11 Tactical, for example, are incredibly popular among police officers. They offer 99.9% polarization, which virtually eliminates glare. They provide 100% UVA and UVB protection, and they are scratch, crack, and craze-resistant. They also exceed ANSI Z87.1-2003 and EN 166 (F) High-Velocity Impact Safety and Optical Standards. But they’re also a little pricey, especially for someone who tends to lose their sunglasses. The Chaos sunglasses by HWC Equipment are much more affordable, and they make a great gift. They’re sleek and stylish, lightweight, and they feature durable, impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses. And if they do get lost, the $8.74 price tag will help ease your pain.
3. Coast 3-in-1 tool with LED light: When it comes to public safety professionals, there’s no such thing as too many knives or flashlights. Both tools are endlessly useful. This 3-in-1 tool by Coast combines a small blade and LED light, perfect for everyday tasks, and a bottle opener, perfect for nightly recovery from everyday tasks. This 3-in-1 tool costs just $11.48, making it an affordable but impressive gift.
4. Lifesaver hammer: Public safety professionals dedicate their lives to serving and protecting others. They are always ready to jump in and help others whenever possible, and having the right tools can help them help those in need. The Lifesaver hammer is an incredible tool that combines a seat belt cutter and a steel hammer that shatters windows and pushes them out. This tool comes with a car mounting base so it’s always accessible. The Lifesaver makes a great gift for the life saver in your life, and costs just $18.45. 
5. Streamlight CuffMate handcuff key/flashlight with dual LEDs: A public safety professional should never be without a handcuff key. This handcuff key attaches to a keychain, so it’s always handy, and it features super bright, multi-directional dual LEDs that really shine in a pinch. The light is powered by lithium batteries, which can withstand extreme temperatures much better than alkaline batteries. The CuffMate is made by Streamlight, a brand that’s well-respected among public safety professionals. The CuffMate makes a great gift, and costs just $19.95.

Most handcuffs work in the same way; they are placed on an individual’s wrists and are tightened to ensure a secure fit. They cannot be loosened, unlocked or removed without a handcuff key. Handcuff keys are typically universal, and all police officers carry handcuff keys.

But did you know that there are several different types of handcuffs and restraints? Today we’ll introduce you to the different types, and of course, recommend a few of our favorites.

Handcuffs

Chain handcuffs: Chain handcuffs are what most people are familiar with. They feature cuffs that are attached with a short chain. They effectively restrain an individual while still allowing some movement. Chain handcuffs are sufficient for more situations, and they’re ideal for restraining an obese person. The handcuffs shown on the right are classic chain handcuffs which come in a variety of colors. Police may use colored handcuffs for a number of reasons: classifying an individual by threat level, indicating a medical condition, or identifying the department to which the cuffs belong.

Hinged handcuffs: Hinged handcuffs feature cuffs joined together by a hinge. These handcuffs restrict movement more than chain handcuffs, so they may be used when a situation demands a higher level of security. A police officer can place hinged handcuffs on a suspect using just one hand, and tighten them with one hand as well. These classic hinged handcuffs are available with either a slot or push pin double lock.

Rigid handcuffs: Rigid handcuffs features cuffs joined together by a solid piece of metal. These offer the highest level of security, and they offer no freedom of movement. Rigid handcuffs can be applied and tightened using one hand. They provide great power and control over an individual. These ASP rigid handcuffs are made from stainless steel and feature a polymer finish.

Other restraints

Belly chains: Belly chains consist of cuffs that are attached by long chains that go around the belly. Belly chains may be used when transporting a prisoner or restraining an individual for an extended period of time. A police officer may also cross an individual’s arms and attach the belly chain cuffs. This belly chain is made by Smith and Wesson, a company with a well-established reputation for dependable quality.

Leg irons: Leg irons consist of cuffs that go around the ankles, attached by long chains. Leg irons are used when transporting prisoners. They allow a prisoner to walk, but not run or kick. These leg irons are also made by Smith and Wesson, and they feature oversized cuffs that will fit a wide range of ankle sizes.

Lone Star Uniforms also carries a huge selection of handcuff keys from Premier Emblem, including this combination window punch and handcuff key.

Thanks for reading the Lone Star Uniforms blog! Here’s hoping that you never find yourself on the receiving end of a handcuffing. Have a great week!

Weinbrenner/Thorogood: Weinbrenner Shoe Company has been manufacturing top-quality footwear since 1892, and their shoes and boots have long been staples in the closets of hardworking American men and women. Now, in 2011, less than two percent of footwear sold in the United States is made here. Weinbrenner’s Thorogood American Heritage Work, Thorogood American Uniform, and Work One lines, on the other hand, are still union-made in the United States. Many of Weinbrenner’s other collections also feature American-made styles. According to their website, this Merrill, Wisconsin-based company plans to uphold their commitment to American manufacturing until “2092 and beyond”. Yet Weinbrenner isn’t just known for manufacturing their products in the United States. Weinbrenner is also highly regarded for their dedication to using durable, dependable materials such as full-grain, oil-tanned leathers. They also incorporate high-tech innovations such as Poron, a microcellular urethane foam to provide ultimate cushioning, support, and shock absorption.

Smith & Warren: Smith & Warren is one of the top names in badges and insignia for the public safety, law enforcement, and security industries. This White Plains, New York-based company manufactures badges and insignia that are both beautiful and durable. The company is known for their quick turnaround times, their full lifetime warranty, and their VisualBadge online ordering system. Smith & Warren has no shortage of loyal customers. What many don’t realize, however, is that Smith & Warren manufactures each and every badge, from start to finish, in their White Plains facility. They use state-of-the-art machinery and technology, as well as good, old-fashioned elbow grease to turn out custom and stock items. Smith & Warren’s manufacturing processes are so remarkable, in fact, that the Science Channel chose to feature the company for the police badge segment of their hit show “How It’s Made”.

Southeastern Shirt: Southeastern Shirt manufactures shirts and pants for police, fire, EMS, postal, and transportation professionals. The company is known for their attention to detail, superior fit, and dependable quality. Their pants and shirts are made with high-quality fabrics, they exceed industry standards, and they offer an exceptional value. Southeastern Shirt is a family-owned company, and they manufacture all of their clothing at one of two plants in Tennessee.

Thank you for reading the Lone Star Uniforms blog! Please feel free to comment with any questions or suggestions! We’d love to hear from you.

At Lone Star Uniforms, we really love our customers. We are inspired every day by their hard work and dedication, and we are continually striving to improve the customer experience. We have hired nine full-time seamstresses to efficiently handle embroidery and embellishment requests, we created our online store to give our customers a new way to shop, and we continually introduce new products that we think our customers will love. Now, we are reaching out to our customers in new ways- on Facebook, Twitter, and on this blog! We plan to use the Lone Star Uniforms blog to provide our customers with useful and interesting information, and even exclusive deals and specials. We hope that you enjoy our blog! Please feel free to comment and tell us what you think!

To kick off our blog, we want to share some breaking news- It’s hot outside. Yes, you heard it here first. And as much as we’d like to complain about the heat, we know that our customers (police, firefighters, and postal workers, just to name a few) have it much worse. So today, in honor of those who are sweating it out while serving others, we’d like to share some tips on how to stay (somewhat) cool, as well as a hot deal on some of our favorite warm-weather products.

How to stay cool

1. Drink responsibly: Keep caffeine and alcohol to a minimum when it’s extremely hot. Caffeine increases metabolic heat, and alcohol dehydrates the body. Stick to cold water. It increases circulation, which cools the entire body. If you’re sweating, you should drink Gatorade to replace the electrolytes that you’re losing. Keep a water bottle or canteen with you at all times. The Atlanco canteen shown on the right holds two quarts of water, and is collapsible. Atlanco also makes a nylon cover for this canteen that can be carried with the shoulder strap or hooked onto a duty belt.
2. Watch what you eat: Eat small meals throughout the day, and consider eating less protein than usual. Both large meals and protein require the body to produce a lot of heat in order to break them down. Surprisingly, eating spicy food can actually help cool you down. Spicy food increases circulation and makes you sweat. As the sweat evaporates, it cools the skin. Consider taking your lunch break at the local Indian joint or go for spicy tacos. Mint also has a cooling effect on the body. The menthol in mint affects nerves, and creates a cooling sensation.
3. Get wet: A splash of cold water can feel refreshing on a hot day, but don’t get carried away. The evaporation of moisture from the skin is what really cools you down. (That’s why you sweat in the first place; your body wants to stay cool, so it produces sweat so that it can evaporate and cool the skin.) Use a spray bottle to mist exposed areas of the body, where moisture can evaporate (bare arms and legs, for example). If you wear a duty belt, you can use a mace holder (we have both nylon and leather) to store a plastic spray bottle. Just don’t mix up your mace and your water, please.
4. Stay dry: Parts of the body that are not exposed to air (feet and torso, for example) should be kept as dry as possible. Performance fabrics that contain polyester are usually great for temperature and moisture management, but in extreme heat, natural fibers like cotton are your best bet. Choose 100% cotton clothing that is roomy enough to allow air to circulate. Choose light colors over dark when you have an option, and look for shoes that allow air to circulate. Here are a few of our favorite pieces of warm-weather apparel:

These 100% cotton canvas shorts by 5.11 Tactical are a customer favorite. They come in six colors, and feature a comfort waistband, a D-ring to hold your keys, and a utility strap that can secure a flashlight. They also feature plenty of roomy cargo pockets which stay flat when empty, so you always look sharp.
5.11 Tactical also offers a 100% cotton short-sleeve shirt. This button-down shirt features six pockets, including hidden document pockets to keep important paperwork.
This flame-resistant base layer by Bulwark is made of 100% cotton, so you’ll stay cool, comfortable, and safe. It comes in a wide range of sizes- small through 5XL. 
These tactical trainers from 5.11 Tactical are perfect for hot weather. They are waterproof, so they keep moisture out. And they’re breathable, so they help evaporate sweat from the feet. They’re also lightweight and offer incredible traction, support, and stability.

Thank you for reading our blog post! We hope you enjoyed it. Since you made it this far, you deserve something special. From now through August 1st, take 15% off any and all items featured in this blog post, and get free shipping as well! Just use coupon code “hotdeal” at checkout.