Why can't we grow beards?

Eventually I think the Army will allow beards because they are lowering their standards every year and I see this as a Next Step down. Too many civilians interfering in the military. Those that have no understanding of military history customs and bearing will further degrade all military services eventually.

We're the best military in the world and i point that out when I hear Soldiers start pointing out specific countries that allow beards for their military. Many of those "beard wearing" militaries are paper tigers who without us protecting them couldnt hold their own. One thing that 22 months in Afghanistan taught me is that many of our allies (many paid by us to be there) are weak. Many of those militaries are more like unions than a force to be reckoned with. Stop worrying about beards and ask yourself "am I the best Soldier, Marine, Airman or Sailor I can be and am i pyhsically fit enough and proficient in my job enough that I can quickly lay waste to any adversary?" A beard is a personal preference and in some cases is ok but a beard won't make you a better warfighter. To me the beard question is in the same category as umbrellas, lipstick, backpacks and sweaters in uniform. With that said I currently have a serious beard (retired) and had some serious facial hair during my first trip over so I am a fan of beards but not in uniform except in specific situations.

Hey high speed. I guess you’re better than everyone else. I guess everyone has the same background as you. Partiality and negative judgment on others is not a strong trait as a leader. I feel for the people entrusted to you care that will never measure up to your glory

You cannot seal a gas mask with a full beard..you must have skin contact to seal.. second..you ever learn your history..even biblical history..a long beard is simply a handle for the enemy to hold your head still long enough to cut your throat. Research it. Learn about it..or else you will be a ignorant statistic with a DOA / KIA tag on your toe..we cant file a article 15 for destruction of government property after your dead..

Because you'll look like the ENEMY...

Depending on the type mask and how long you be wearing. I would advise you not to have a beard. Those with beards will pay the price if a bio agent is used verse CS.

If you can’t grow a beard, sounds more like a genetic problem.

As far as the military is concerned, look and dress the part.

Navy used to allow senior officers to have beards, but that was an old salior tradition.

There is no reason to have a beard. Mental and physical fitness are part of the military and people are separated if they cannot meet the standards.

Which is another point, military has standards for a reason. Discipline, honor, professionalism...

If you’re worried about your looks, perhaps you choose the wrong profession.

By the way, I have a beard by no means am I anti-facial hair.

Well CPL (P) Cody Voye, try sealing your gas mask properly with a tight fit to save your hide in a Bio-Chemical attack; then ask that question again afterward provided you have survived! :)

Go join another army if you don't like our Army's rules. I'm growing tired of whining youngsters. If the Army can't have rules, no one can.

Try and get a job with LEO or fire Department and ask them if you can have a full beard. Go ahead I'll wait. Military has a uniform code. Don't like it don't sign up. Plain and simple.