Hilliard police officers wear a variety of uniforms representing specific job assignments. The uniforms also serve an equally important purpose: to identify the wearer as a source of assistance in an emergency, crisis, or other time of need. No matter what uniform officers wear, they share the same badge, patch, and mission: to serve and protect the residents of Hilliard.
Class A: This traditional navy blue uniform is issued to every officer and is typically reserved for administration, ceremonies, courtappearances, funerals, and other special events. It’s available in long and short sleeve and worn with an 8-point cloth hat. The hat badge includes an eagle and the “Victory Beam” in remembrance of 9/11. Class B (Duty Belt): Most patrol officers opt for the Class B uniform for everyday wear. This black utility uniform is issued to every police officer. It is more durable, functional, and comfortable than the Class A. It’s available in both long and short sleeve and worn with a baseball-style hat. Class B (Vest): Officers have the option to wear an external vest as opposed to a full-duty belt at their hips. The vest distributes weight through the shoulders and back, significantly reducing stress on the officer’s hips and lower back. Vests can also be removed more quickly in an emergency. Bicycle: This reflective variation of the Class B uniform is worn by officers assigned to the bicycle unit. The long-sleeve shirt is royal blue on the top half and black on the lower half. The short-sleeve shirt is entirely royal blue. Either shorts or trousers can be worn. Riders wear helmets when in motion and Class B hats when not riding. Motorcycle: High visibility is key in the motorcycle uniform, which is another variation of the Class B. Officers wear a neon yellow and black block shirt, breeches (trousers), leather riding boots, and gloves. A helmet and eye protection must be worn when riding. Various winter and rain gear items are also issued to each officer. K9: Geared toward mobility, this uniform is a variation of the Class B and includes button fastenings and additional pockets (and maybe some dog hair, too!) Special agency patches with subdued colors are worn on the sleeves. Handlers are issued a badge, leash, vest, and collar, among other items for their K9 partners. Command Dress: Command Staff Officers (Lieutenants and Chiefs) have a dress uniform for formal occasions and special events, such as promotions, swearing-in ceremonies, and funerals. The uniform consists of navy blue jacket and trousers with a white, collared shirt. The Class A hat is worn. The rank designation for the Chief of Police is a gold eagle, the Deputy Chief is an gold embossed leaf, and Lieutenants wear a single gold bar. Honor Guard: This military-style uniform is full of symbolism and worn by the unit during parades, casket watches, funerals, retirements, and civic events. The black high-collared wool dress jacket is worn with matching trousers. The collar includes “HPD” on the wearer’s right and “637” recognizing fallen Officer Sean Johnson on the left. Accessories include parade gloss belt and a campaign-style hat with the Class A hat badge. White gloves, buttons printed with Ohio’s State Seal, and a black-and-blue mourning cord complete the uniform.