Why can't we grow beards?

Even those of us with shaving profiles, and who have permission from our commanders must shave while oconus for safety reasons. I understand that the SMA has stated that he has no problem with facial hair, however, it isn't going to happen eventhough a portion of the naval services had full facial hair until the late 80s.

How about be the chain of command says so. You willingly chose to enlist or become commissioned knowing that there are standards to be upheld. Quit bitching and do your job.

You should probably do a little research before posting something like this. Your intelligence is obviously in question.

But my beard will inhibit the gas mask from functioning properly here in my office on post! Because we all carry gas masks everywhere we go in garrison...

Because (just like the baret for all Soldiers) only a few Soldiers would look good with a beard. We would be stuck with most male (or female to be PC) Soldiers looking like a bunch of shitheads!

You’re not recommended to grow Beards because your gas mask will not seal properly on your face.

In England you have to ask permission to get an opportunity to prove that you can grow a "full set" and if you are given the chance, you have either 4 or 6 weeks to prove that you can grow a presentable full set, if you cannot, the you have to shave, that opportunity is only for certain positions. The armed forces are not an equal opportunity employer, if you can't meet certain standards, then you cannot be in. I would love to have that as an option with the US armed forces but we broke away from Tyranny in 1776 and made our own country

Because you're told to! Now drop and give me 10, NUB!

"Added headache for command" indeed! I was one of those who could just finish shaving, and on several ocassions find myself having to testify to that,... with witnesses! Good times!

I was disappointed when I heard about some waivers granted to felonies