Press Release
For Immediate Release - February 21, 2007

Contact: Rob Ennamorato - Communications Specialist - (410) 737-2615 / rennamorato@bism.org

Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM) is proud to manufacture the Airman Battle Uniform Jacket for United States Air Force.

Blind Industries and Services of Maryland recently began production on the new United States Air Force Airman Battle Uniform (ABU) jacket.

The majority of the sewing, cutting, and packaging work on the ABU takes place at the two BISM facilities located on 2240 Northwood Drive and 1303 Old Ocean City Road in Salisbury. The ABU jacket is part of a new uniform designed by the Air Force as a daily utility garment. BISM is one of only two National Industries for the Blind (NIB) associated agencies producing the ABU jacket. Winston-Salem (NC) Industries for the Blind is also manufacturing the jacket for the Air Force.

There are approximately 100 BISM Associates, a large number of whom are blind or visually impaired, currently working on the ABU program. The ABU is the most challenging project BISM has ever undertaken, with 72 different operations required to manufacture the jacket. A typical military garment manufactured by BISM, such as the Army's Improved Physical Fitness Uniform (IPFU), requires approximately 20 different operations. The goal is to have our Associates cross-trained on the various operations, in an effort to meet the needs of the customer. BISM has spent $750 thousand on automated machinery to assist with button holes, elbow patches, pockets and button attachments.

BISM's current manufacturing output of the ABU jacket is 12,500 per month, or 625 per day, as required by the Air Force contract. BISM's Cumberland facility currently produces between 1,500 and 2,000 ABU's per month, though the two Salisbury locations expect to absorb the entire production amount by May.

BISM's production of the ABU began last August, even though much of the automated machinery had yet to arrive. Early in the process, the focus was on training the Associates in the variety of operations required to produce the ABU. The first delivery of the ABU jackets occurred last September.

Our organization is currently offering Eastern Shore media outlets the opportunity to learn more about the ABU manufacturing at Blind Industries and Services of Maryland. Our Associates continue to become more proficient in the production of the ABU, and are proud to be associated with the United States Air Force. We would like to spread the message that blind and visually impaired Marylanders are making a difference in the workforce.

To set up an interview, visit, or for more information on the ABU jacket, please contact Mr. Ennamorato.