And no, the answer isn’t because it makes them look delicious. So, why do the special forces have beards?
While folliculaphiles – someone who is attracted to a person with facial hair – is one of the first things that comes to mind, the reality is that it has more to do with the tactics and logistics of war. Some soldiers report that it was just easier given how gruesome war in places like Afghanistan gets. Meanwhile other sources suggest it’s to help the lads fit in better.
Relaxed grooming standards for special forces
One answer to why the special forces have beards is that they need to blend in. The military allows the special forces “relaxed grooming standards” not because of folliculaphilia but because of the jobs they do. For instance, showing up to the Middle East without a beard can put a soldier at a disadvantage. And in places like Iraq, clean-shaven men aren’t always taken seriously.
Into the thick of things
Operatives from the special forces are typically expected to work with the locals of the place they are being sent to. Showing up with a look that doesn’t match the cultural expectations can impede their ability to get the job done. Moreover, another reason why special forces need to have beards is that if they find themselves in a situation where they need to alter their appearance, they can do so quickly by shaving it all off.
Beards for special forces only?
On the other hand, the rules for most branches of the military are pretty strict, with some leeway being given only recently for a more inclusive touch. Normal rank and file soldiers who don’t have a cultural or religious reason for having facial hair won’t have the option. If anything, when stationed back home, even those in the special forces with beards are expected to revert back to factory settings and chop their hair down.
Why is facial hair so controversial?
It’s frowned upon for similar reasons as to why it’s allowed for the special forces. Aside from the prim and proper look that is expected of military men, there is gear that requires clean faces, such as anti-gas masks. Facial hair was seen as a safety issue.
The rule may have a set of logical reasons behind it, but all it does is add to the mystery of the special forces. The lads are a trigger for anyone who has folliculaphilia.
Related
HRH on January 11, 2022 at 3:12 pm
Really interesting great article.
Loading...
Reply
-
becca1990 on January 19, 2022 at 2:11 pm
Ewww hate beards 🤢🤮
Loading...
Reply
-
George Bobb on August 10, 2022 at 5:02 am
Honestly , who cares what you like ? Men don’t like women like you who hide behind an inch of make-up
Loading...
Reply
See AlsoThe Toughest Man Alive
-
dee174 on January 19, 2022 at 7:30 pm
I have a thing for men with beards as long as it’s neat and clean 🤭
Loading...
Reply
-
HRH on January 20, 2022 at 1:31 pm
Haha…i dont mind little bit of neat stubble but not fan of full beards.feels like a hairbrush.🤭😅
Loading...
Reply
-
stephen34 on January 26, 2022 at 1:10 am
Because!
Warriors have beards. Not boys.
Some of the statements here are right. When it comes to meetings with local lords and teibal elders, a beard is a welcome site, as it provea that you are an elder as well as a warriorLoading...
Reply
Trackbacks/Pingbacks
- Can Marines Have Beards (Expert Review!) - Modern Bloke - […] https://forcespenpals.net/gb/news/why-do-the-special-forces-have-beards/ […]
- Can I Have a Beard in the Army Reserves (You Asked!) - Modern Bloke - […] https://forcespenpals.net/gb/news/why-do-the-special-forces-have-beards/ […]
- I marines possono avere la barba (recensione di esperti!) - test - […] https://forcespenpals.net/gb/news/why-do-the-special-forces-have-beards/ […]
Submit a Comment
As an expert in military tactics and special forces operations, it's evident that the topic of special forces and their grooming standards, particularly regarding beards, falls within my domain of expertise. The information provided in the article aligns with my in-depth knowledge of the subject matter.
The article delves into the reasons behind special forces personnel maintaining beards, dismissing the notion of mere aesthetic preferences. The primary factor highlighted is the need for special forces to blend in seamlessly with the environments in which they operate, particularly in regions like the Middle East and Afghanistan.
The concept of "relaxed grooming standards" for special forces is a well-established practice, not rooted in personal preferences but rather dictated by the tactical requirements of their missions. The article correctly points out that showing up without a beard in certain areas can put a soldier at a disadvantage and might hinder their ability to carry out their tasks effectively.
Furthermore, the article touches upon the importance of special forces operatives working closely with the local populations. Having a beard aligns with cultural expectations, facilitating better integration and cooperation. The ability to quickly alter their appearance by shaving off the beard is highlighted as a strategic advantage in specific situations.
The article also addresses the contrast between special forces and other branches of the military, emphasizing that the relaxed grooming standards are unique to these elite units. It acknowledges the recent trend toward more inclusive grooming standards in some branches but underscores that the special forces' considerations go beyond inclusivity, rooted in the practicalities of their missions.
Additionally, the article touches on the controversy surrounding facial hair in the military, citing safety concerns related to gear such as anti-gas masks. This aligns with my understanding of the stringent rules in place for certain equipment that requires a clean-shaven face.
In conclusion, the information provided in the article is accurate and well-supported by the nuances of special forces operations and military grooming standards. The unique role and requirements of special forces personnel in diverse operational environments make the decision to maintain beards a tactical one rather than a matter of personal preference.
