Do you believe we should be allowed to grow beards in a deployed environment?

I think it depends on the environment. In our current deployment, where beards are common among the locals, then sure. But in say, Germany, or South America, where they are there, but not as common a thing, then no. The idea is to be relatable to the locals. Hearts and minds, yeah?

Beards while deployed? Hell yes. Ever notice when you see special forces and SEALs with beards you don't ever see gas masks on their hips? Sick of hearing about how you can't seal your mask. Chemical warfare is pretty rare, not to mention I don't think the damn thing would work in a real chemical attack anyways. We hardly ever train with them.

It's situational dependent. In combat, you shouldn't be required to shave every day (I'd rather carry bullets than razors). In garrison, break out the razor. If the prevailing culture is one where you have to have a beard to interface with the locals, then grow the beard... IF YOU CAN. If there is threat of chemical weapons, you aren't going to be sealing your mask with that beard on. Good luck!

I think so. FYI..My mask seals fine. As long as you can grow an actual beard and not some patchy "thing" on your face. I'm not against having one in Garrison either.

I've seen a report about what lives in a beard. Unless you keep that bad-boy clean, Eww.

I see a lot of SMs are concerned with the seal of the gas mask... A beard isn't the only thing that affects that, make up affects the seal as well.

Beards are in-fashion. In the same way that any other fashion trends come and go, beards will eventually go (sooner better than later). Then all the "beard = man" bullshit will die out. And make no mistake, I don't say this due to "lack of beard", I have to shave twice on parade days...

While I think they look stupid, in general I don't see an issue with allowing beards (deployed or home station) so long as you don't look like shit. You should be able to tell the difference between a good troop growing their beard because its the thing right now, and a ragbag who is just too lazy to shave.

Yes, we should be allowed to wear/grow beards (within reason, of course)

Well, beyond the whole unity, discipline, esprit de corps thing, good luck trying to get your gas mask to seal with all that hair in the way.