Should the Army make exceptions to uniform policy based on religious beliefs?

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:47:22 -0400

What are the implications of not being able to wear a Pro-Mask while having a beard?

Should Soldiers with dietary needs based on religion receive more BAS to pay for additional food costs?

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 9:48 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:48:05 -0400

ofcourse, and gender, and however you feel that morning.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made May 17 at 2016 9:57 AM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:57:41 -0400

Why don't we just change our country, and our military to the beliefs of other nations. Why is it when people from other countries want to bend our rules to fit there own. Isn't the reason that people come from other countries to ours because they didn't like where they where at? So if that is the case why bring the things that you didn't like and pick and choose, then make that new country you have come to, conform to your beliefs? When in Rome do as the Romans! They joined OUR country's Military. They may be a bad asses or not, but you are in OUR military. Why do we have to conform to it. They knew the regs when they joined and now want regs to change.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made May 17 at 2016 10:02 AM

SrA Edward Vong — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:02:24 -0400

"It is DoD policy that requests for accommodation of religious practices should be approved by commanders..." [emphasis added] To this exhortation is added, however, a critical caveat: requests for accommodation should be approved, but only "when accommodation will not have an adverse impact on military readiness, unit cohesion, standards, or discipline."

It really depends on the troop's career field, operations, and mission capabilities in my opinion. Accommodations can be as for allowing, but as far as pay goes, we all get the same. I was Muslim while serving and received the same BAH as everyone else. Per Islamic dietary law, our foods had to be Halal (I don't follow this real because I eat everything). With our BAH, we were easily able to buy halal food (if I wanted to). The price was not high.

If I were a commander, I would approve a troop that does not receive BAS living in the dorms to choose to recieve BAS so that they may suit their dietary requirements. They will not be given free meals at the dining facility.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:04 AM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:04:19 -0400

Opinions will vary from person to person. This is only the beginning to so many more changes that will come within time with these specific things.
Do I agree with this? No. But I can't speak for anyone else. The military does try to adapt with society, should it? I don't think so, to an extent. The military isn't here to ensure that everyone gets what they want, because everyone won't. There will always be the people that get upset because they don't get what they want. In my opinion, people need to adapt. Something we all learn. Let people have their holidays, let them have veggie MRE's but there is no need to completely change certain regs because people don't want to adapt.
We are soldiers, we are to adapt to any conditions. If they wanted to have all these changes maybe they should have re thought their choices on joining.

Again. This is only an opinion.

Response by SFC Alfredo Garcia made May 17 at 2016 10:15 AM

SFC Alfredo Garcia — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:15:33 -0400

No and No. I do not wish to sound insensitive but I look at this objectively. This is an all volunteer military. You have the regulations, standards, and expectations before you CHOOSE to join. If they are not acceptable, you do not join.

Military is NOT an equal opportunity career and they explicit permission/reasons to discriminate. For example too old, too short, too young, otherwise physically incapable of accomplishing tasks or missions due to their disabilities. Those were just the physical sides.

A beard for example may interfere with the utilization of a gas mask for instance or are they expected to be provided a modified mask? Or, due to their unique needs, are they to be assigned rear detachment automatically due to the difficulties/challenges this may cause the command? How will this impact the perceptions and morale of the rest of the unit? This means more expenditures, logistical nightmares and more. I applaud that people from all walks of life and beliefs wish to serve their duty but they can wear as they choose off duty. They have vegetarian meals available, even in MRE's. Other choices should be out of pocket. Again, I apologize if I sound like a jerk but we don't assign religions, just missions.

Response by SSgt Robert Dant made May 17 at 2016 10:15 AM

SSgt Robert Dant — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:15:47 -0400

This should be simple - we are soldiers here to protect this great nation. We all have our own brand of religion, sexual preference, and other situations.

End of the day it is simple in my mind - we protect, we fight, we kill. An effective fighting unit cannot be worrying more about religious or PC issues.

They have to focus on the task at hand. Everyone is equal and should not get any special preference or money.

I am a Christian - you think it is not difficult for us to grow up turning the other cheek but when it comes to combat, aim, squeeze, fire!

Should we be given something for the rest of our life's for violating and Lord and Savior's commandment.

No, stay out of the pan if you cannot handle the fire!

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made May 17 at 2016 10:23 AM

TSgt Kenneth Ellis — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:23:30 -0400

They would not do it for Jews who wanted to wear a Yamaka.

Response by SGT David T. made May 17 at 2016 10:31 AM

SGT David T. — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:31:15 -0400

I am in favor of making accommodations wherever possible. However, said accommodations should not be shouldered at taxpayer expense. Take for instance, the good Captain's headgear in the pic. He should pay for that himself and not be issued it (I know officers buy their own uniforms). Now this can open the door for some very "different" accommodation requests from smaller religious groups. So I think we need to apply some common sense. In the case of Sikhs, a blanket accommodation can be granted for the grooming and alternative headgear as it applies to all Sikhs. In other cases it should be considered on a case by case basis.

As far as the pro-mask goes, I am not sure if the beard will prevent a seal or not. I was always told that it would, but I was told many things during my time in the Army that weren't exactly true. I think if he is willing to accept that risk, then there is no issue. After all, no one is irreplaceable. If he dons a pro-mask during a chem attack, and he dies, the next in line steps up and takes charge. This may sound callous, but if he knows the risks, that's on him.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:31 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:31:44 -0400

Well I think in the case of dress uniform it should be OK but not with the ACU for reasons such as getting the promask on. The bead and such are a no no with any uniform. And as far as more bas is separate rastions not good enough?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:36 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:36:08 -0400

The answer is a resounding no. The uniform should be based on the standards already set forth and should not be altered for any religious reason.. no matter the religion. If you keep it this way then nobody can rightfully claim discrimination because everyone is receiving the same treatment. However, the moment you set aside a standard for one religion then you are going to have to do so for all religions otherwise you actually will be discriminatory. Leave it as is. The service member is or should be aware of the standards prior to joining and don't have to join up if they can't accept it.

Response by SFC John Hill made May 17 at 2016 10:38 AM

SFC John Hill — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:38:01 -0400

When I first enlisted there was a list of statements on the back side of the contract (the fine print) you signed off on. One of those statements basically said that you understood that the military may not be able to meet your religious needs.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 10:49 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:49:46 -0400

If your religious beliefs don't line up with military uniform regulations, I suggest you not reenlist or sign up for another tour of duty. In the military one of the first things that is instilled in us all is uniformity. That's this guys opinion.

Response by PO2 Robert Aitchison made May 17 at 2016 10:51 AM

PO2 Robert Aitchison — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:51:21 -0400

The last time this subject came up here people were more supportive of Captain Singh.

He did pass the standard gas mask tests with his beard, the Army had initially wanted to subject him to additional testing that other soldiers aren't subject to but they backed down after he filed suit.

By every account I've heard he's an excellent officer. Graduated from West Point with honors, done a tour in Afghanistan, etc.

Here is the specific exemption the Army granted.

"While assigned or performing non-hazardous duties, you may wear a beard, turban, and uncut hair in a neat and conservative manner that presents a professional and well-groomed appearance,"

Response by COL Ted Mc made May 17 at 2016 10:59 AM

COL Ted Mc — Tue, 17 May 2016 10:59:13 -0400

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member - Warrant; The implication of not being able to wear a "Pro-Mask" (regardless of why) is that you are likely to die if you should have been wearing one and aren't.

No. soldiers should NOT receive different rates of BAS because of their religions.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 11:11 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:11:53 -0400

As times change, the military should change too. Remember this CPT conformed to the standard when he enrolled at West Point (4 years) and while he was deployed. It shouldn't matter but others will see he has his Sapper Tab and a GAFB badge. The man has served his country proud. He went about the proper channels and procedures to get the Army to recognize his religion and how he can properly represent it under Army standards. As long as other soldiers in uniform follow suit, then this shouldn't be a problem

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 11:18 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:18:04 -0400

If the Army makes exceptions to the uniform policy, then the "uniform" policy will not be uniform. The uniform policy should be call the "Army Dress Code" policy. There are temporary exceptions to the policy and that is as far as it should go, anything else defeats the purpose (and it has as you may have noticed).

Response by SGM Frederic Smith made May 17 at 2016 11:58 AM

SGM Frederic Smith — Tue, 17 May 2016 11:58:32 -0400

"NO ECEPTIONS"!

Response by SFC Michael Bazzell made May 17 at 2016 12:04 PM

SFC Michael Bazzell — Tue, 17 May 2016 12:04:41 -0400

This man fought and won against the machine. Anyone actually seeing how he did it and not just bashing him. Congrats to him

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 12:34 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 12:34:02 -0400

In America, as a citizen, you have the right to practice your inalienable rights such as free speech, practicing religion and everything else the bill of rights States becsaue they are given to you by a higher power not the Government or governing body where you reside. The army is different, the armyand military in general is not civilian society, it's professional soldiers tasked with the responsibility of protecting our beloved society . serving in my opinion is not a right or a privilege. It's a duty. Something that of your able to you should sacrifice a few years of looking and wearing what you want in order to protect and defend our society if your able. It's giving back to those before you and after you who have allowed you to live peacefully within our beloved society. Exceptions in an Army can only be made on personnel if it's for the good of the army. I am a libertarian, but the army has to run to serve the entire force instead of the needs of the individual which is completely opposite to how civilian life should be. In civilian world no one should be infringed upon because no one should lose their rights at society's request. In the military the group cannot be infringed upon becsaue the loss here is the effectiveness of winning in open combat. You take a oath that says I will protect Constitution and obey the orders of the officers appointed over me so help me God. Not that will want certain accommodations made for me due to my God and then follow the rest of my oath. We should look, move, and fight as a whole, not have certain differences that causes us to loose that uniformity. The work day is from 530 am to whenever last formation is. Wear your uniform and head gear that everyone is wearing. When the day is done switch to whatever civilian outfit you enjoy wearing and wear whatever it is you feel is important. When you wear the uniform you aren't only defending your beliefs but beliefs of people that you may highly oppose. This is your job. This is your duty. Do it.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 12:48 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 12:48:11 -0400

The Pro Mask will actually fit fine with a beard. I went through Chemical Weapons Instructor School without any issues and had a beard. My mask sealed fine. The US Army has made an exception for Sikhs and their traditional headwear. As a matter of Fact, I enjoy how their attire irritates those we fight and how it enflames others. A lot of people call them, "Rag Heads" and other bigoted names. These are professionals and warfighters. If they have assimilated into our society and hold an allegiance to our country and society, let them have their head gear. It looks better and more professional than what most soldiers wear and how they wear it.

Response by SFC Grant Ross made May 17 at 2016 12:51 PM

SFC Grant Ross — Tue, 17 May 2016 12:51:24 -0400

I find that the influences of society have allowed this type of demand/request/behavior to cross the lines into our Military. We as the US Military are an institution, a team. We all signed the blank check to the country to defend against all enemies. We did this willingly and stepped forward into the uniform leaving our individuality at the door. That being said we are not a Military of individuals; we are a cohesive unit. If you want to have your individual rights do not join the Military. Just my two cents, and my first response. Perhaps it's just time for me to retire.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 1:06 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 13:06:31 -0400

This is definitely a situation where you make one concession and a hundred more requests come out of the woodworks. I believe the military should try to accommodate religious beliefs but like anything it opens the door to people to take advantage of the system and be dishonest about their requests.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 17 at 2016 1:31 PM

MAJ Keira Brennan — Tue, 17 May 2016 13:31:49 -0400

Imo religion is bronze age gibberish and myth. I think our Republic (and services) would be far better served with disolution of the chaplaincy and the never ending he-she gets to do something different.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made May 17 at 2016 2:01 PM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Tue, 17 May 2016 14:01:12 -0400

No, the military is not a religious gathering.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 2:16 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 14:16:49 -0400

When is the last time we got gassed?
How many service members even have pro-masks?
Because I'm the only person in my current unit with one....
Pro-masks have gone the way of bayonets....they are in our history books, and in our military inventory, but no one actually has them and uses them....
I have a mask, and I haven't been to the chamber since BCT in 2009....

And BAS is for Basic Subsistence... if you want to subsist on anything beyond the basics, it comes out of your Base Pay.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 3:00 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 15:00:58 -0400

What happened to uniformity shrouded in tradition. Why ask to modify over a century of tradition to placate a small minority. Why serve if it goes beyond your current beliefs.

Response by Sgt Kris Mann made May 17 at 2016 3:01 PM

Sgt Kris Mann — Tue, 17 May 2016 15:01:26 -0400

No, no accommodations. If you cannot hold to the standard, NJP.
We used to all be green. What happened?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2016 3:11 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 May 2016 15:11:24 -0400

nope. If your religious beliefs prohibit you from adhering to regulations, you should consider another career path.

Response by Capt Gregory Prickett made May 17 at 2016 3:22 PM

Capt Gregory Prickett — Tue, 17 May 2016 15:22:46 -0400

Jeez, again?

To explain to the bigots and to those who are unaware of the facts. CPT Simratpal Singh attended West Point, and complied with all of the grooming standards, even though it was against his religion. He completed Ranger School, earned the CAB, Air Assault, and German gold Army Proficiency Badge. He has a Bronze Star from Afghanistan. All earned while complying with Army grooming standard regs.

And then the Army changed its regs on religious accommodations, and he requested a waiver based on the regulation. His request was granted, provided that it was while performing or assigned to "non-hazardous" duties. If he gets deployed and needs to be able to wear a gas mask, he may have to shave.

He has the right to practice his religion. Sikhs have served honorably in the Army since 1918. There is no reason that we cannot accommodate their religious beliefs. We damn sure don't have a problem accommodating Christian beliefs in the field.

Finally, CW2 Private RallyPoint Member, what dietary needs are you talking about for Sikhs? They are forbidden to eat Halah (Muslim) or Kosher (Jewish) meats, because it was killed according to a religious ritual. Otherwise, they can eat the same foods that everyone else does. They don't need to pay for additional food costs.

Response by 1LT Tom Welch made May 17 at 2016 4:16 PM

1LT Tom Welch — Tue, 17 May 2016 16:16:34 -0400

we have a 'uniform' for a reason, allowing individuality like this will lead to appeals for crazy hair colors and all sorts of politically convenient CRAP, be proud to wear it as it is supposed to be worn, I believe AR670-1 is the regulation for the Army. Stick to it, this is a ridiculous appeal to 'feel good 'about oneself, if you dont already wearing and individual uniform is no longer a uniform, its just clothes.

Response by GySgt Robert Harbick made May 17 at 2016 4:32 PM

GySgt Robert Harbick — Tue, 17 May 2016 16:32:34 -0400

Absolutely!

Response by SPC Neil Hood made May 17 at 2016 4:56 PM

SPC Neil Hood — Tue, 17 May 2016 16:56:18 -0400

Sikhs aren't trying to get away with anything. They want to serve and in fact I bet many serve with distinction. As for more money for food I think they need to figure that out without making a change to BAS. Coupons!!!!!

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made May 18 at 2016 1:22 AM

SFC Joseph Weber — Wed, 18 May 2016 01:22:48 -0400

CPT Singh sure gets a lot of attention here.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 11:38 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 11:38:38 -0400

Not at all. Prior to joining you know what you are getting into. You as a person, must weigh the pro's and con's of conforming to the requirements of Service. The Service should not conform to your personal beliefs of clothing wear. The military is VOLUNTARY.

However, I believe it would be acceptable on special occasions to allow uniform deviance. ie, we allow Soldiers on Ash Wendsday to have the cross on their forehead. This is a one day deal, not an everyday occurrence.

BAS should be the same for all. Period. However, a junior Soldier in the barracks normally does not get BAS. I believe for a legit religious reason or legit medical dietary needs, that BAS should be authorized at the normal rate. However, wanting BAS because you are *voluntarily* 'gluten free' or all organic or vegetarian is not a reason (in my crazy mind).

Response by SPC Greg K. made May 18 at 2016 1:41 PM

SPC Greg K. — Wed, 18 May 2016 13:41:34 -0400

When I was in, we were told there was no black, no white, now Hispanic...we were all GREEN. We were all uniform, there was no segregation. Yes, you are able to express your religious beliefs.....on Sunday, at church or whatever and wherever you worship. Keep it on your dog tag, shave your face and take off the turban. This only creates division, not unity. I know an E-4 currently serving with "Jedi Master" on his dog tags as his religion, does he get to wear a cloak and carry a light saber....HELL NO!!!! If diversity mean segregation (whether intentional or Politically Correct), then it's not unity....how does a divided military work and fight together. Our Military is a volunteer service, if you don't like the standards don't volunteer.

Response by SFC Alfredo Garcia made May 18 at 2016 1:42 PM

SFC Alfredo Garcia — Wed, 18 May 2016 13:42:45 -0400

My second post- After reviewing many of the comments here, it seems the majority are in favor of 'NO exceptions' as far as uniform wear. Same as with additional or modified BAS. I do not know of any exceptions granted with since the mid-80's. So the picture above of a very honorably decorated Soldier is no longer valid. He is retired and his grandfathered exception with it. He followed ALL rules. Made requests for waivers as permitted (and granted) by the regulations at the time. I would be honored to shake his hand for his contributions (and others). He was under the understanding that he may have to shave and wear typical uniforms for combat roles and if needed for certain missions. With his earned decoration and apparent level accomplishment he would comply with the needs of the Army. I truly would like to hear what his take is on it.

Many of comments below were enlightening, well written/argued, and even heartfelt but does not change my sentiment of no further exceptions. I will give you a weak analogy: I was grading an APFT. A very good friend missed the run by 3 seconds. He failed. He missed the standard. Some said I was being ridiculous, some applauded me to avoid the perception of favoritism. But it was more than that. Another Soldier missed it at about 8 or 9 seconds. Where do you draw the line? Simple - FM 21-20. Line was already drawn for me. It was up to me to set the example in grading fairly and objective and keeping my emotion and friendships out of it. It is up to the higher paygrades to decide what to make of it. I told my friend I would run with and do whatever it takes so he would be able to pass the test on his own merits and not sympathy. On a different test, I failed my 1SG for doing 'neck-ups' instead of actual pushups. I warned him and then failed him. He put me at parade rest and ordered me to grade him again and insisted on me counting them as correct. I respectfully refused. How am I to set the example if I give in to those who out rank me or my friends or need a 'favor'? One standard and it is already explicit.

What a SM does on their time is their business. Eat what you like, wear what you like, worship as you like, say what you like as long as it does not compromise the values of the military.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2016 4:16 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 May 2016 16:16:38 -0400

No.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2016 2:10 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 May 2016 02:10:51 -0400

Implications for not being able to wear a protective mask because a beard deny's a proper fit indicates one may die quicker, depending on the agent.
Concessions to accommodate the many different customs of many different religions would be a distraction and hinder mission accomplishment. Adjustments and change should be infrequent as possible,

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2016 7:11 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 May 2016 07:11:25 -0400

I'm all about inclusion. However, there are implications for ever decision we make. The DOD has increased spending to accommodate the new generation, women in combat, And LGBTQ. This would also increase spending as well. These are all good things. However, over the past few years we have kicked out a lot of good people because we needed to save money. How are we able to increase spending on personnel programs , when we are already cash strapped?

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 19 at 2016 12:21 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Thu, 19 May 2016 12:21:37 -0400

No. The simple answer is we are an all volunteer military. No one has currently been drafted into military service. It's like when a pacifist enlists and then complains when they have to go to the front lines. No one is asking for your service. We all have to make some form of sacrifice when we join. Some of it is family, friends, personal lifestyle, even the food we eat. There is no justification for making personal exemptions in an all volunteer military.

Response by SPC Craig Miller made May 19 at 2016 3:22 PM

SPC Craig Miller — Thu, 19 May 2016 15:22:17 -0400

Wow if I had only known, being Catholic I would have asked for Sundays off. Keep holy the Sabbath and what not.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2016 3:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 May 2016 15:59:27 -0400

No.

Response by Col Rebecca Lorraine made May 19 at 2016 5:32 PM

Col Rebecca Lorraine — Thu, 19 May 2016 17:32:24 -0400

Capt Singh is a hero and maverick. He has more courage than many I see posting in this line. Our military should be a microcosm of the nation it serves with a diverse portion of every race, gender, religion, etc....Ethnocentrism and egocentrism is pervasive in most of the responses. Congrats to SPC Rebecca Ramos for wading into this one so valiantly.

I have mixed feelings, because I get the uniform ideal and not standing out. "Armies do not march in step for exercise." (Beyers 1977:137)

Change creates friction, even when the change is productive and an evolution of the species. From the Trump and Bernie people it is all about the change and the outsider, yet we remain closed minded. Dealing with change is a part of dealing with every part of life. That includes the uniformity of our military appearance. I'm okay with women wearing their hijab, since I had to wear the darn thing in Saudi Arabia.

His appeal was individually addressed. Each change should be handled the same way and Chaplins and Commanders lead the way on ensuring the "team" understands that it is an HONORABLE accommodation. Our military is voluntary and should welcome all those who meet standards.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2016 9:37 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 May 2016 09:37:17 -0400

no way! You knew the rules when you joined. What's the point in having any standards? Or are they just for white, straight, christian males?

Response by CPT Earl George made Jun 2 at 2016 7:32 AM

CPT Earl George — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 07:32:18 -0400

In Germany in the early 70's, almost all African -American soldiers in my platoon had shaving profiles.

Response by SPC(P) Mike Conley Jr. made Sep 1 at 2017 12:07 PM

SPC(P) Mike Conley Jr. — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 12:07:40 -0400

This is a tough one. Though I feel that a beard should be authorized, obviously still have some kind of standard though, like most people have said this is a volunteer force. There is a standard that has to be met. A standard that should be known ahead of time.

Response by SSG Jimmy Cernich made Sep 1 at 2017 5:13 PM

SSG Jimmy Cernich — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 17:13:55 -0400

No no and no.United states Military United States Uniform,United States Military chow hall,United States Soldier.If you want to live by your culture go back to your country's military because they sure wouldn't let us live up to our culture.

Response by LTC Raymond Buenteo made Dec 22 at 2020 6:26 PM

LTC Raymond Buenteo — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 18:26:16 -0500

No. That is a Pandora’s box subject to exploitation by every dumb ass.

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Dec 23 at 2020 7:11 PM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 19:11:33 -0500

The military already does it. It may not be to the degree you desire. So...why the big deal. BAS increase--NO. That is the individual right to select their religion and provide support for their dietary requirements.

Response by SSG John Oliver made Jan 16 at 2022 12:24 PM

SSG John Oliver — Sun, 16 Jan 2022 12:24:50 -0500

The British and their Commonwealth make it work so should we.