At first glance, this might seem outrageous. How dare the school require this young Marine to wear a cap and gown like the rest of the students?
But then, if you think about it, this is not a Marine function, and Marines are not required to wear their dress blues to civilian functions.
I can see no reason this youngster could not doff his dress uniform jacket, wear the cap and gown over the rest of his uniform for the ceremony, then put on the jacket after the ceremony was over.
Marines also wear civilian clothing when not on duty. I thin there's just a bit of grandstanding going on here.
There's more than a bit. More like a "look at me" situation.
You are 100% correct in your assessment. Some kids wear flowered shorts and flip-flops under their gowns. Others wear a dress. Still others wear a starched dress shirt and tie. This young Marine could have removed his uniform coat for the brief walk around the track and to accept his diploma.
He could have then afterwards removed the gown and donned his USMC dress blue jacket again to illustrate his other recent achievement. His temper tantrum was very unbecoming of a Marine since he had the opportunity to participate in both graduations.
~ Blue Jays ~
That would be a violation of Marine Corps uniform regulations; that's the reason. Also, it's a blouse not a jacket.