“Breaking News: Army Lifts 100-Year Ban on Beards – King’s Approval Sparks Major Policy Change”
The Army’s Landmark Decision: Allowing Beards After a Century
The History Behind the Beard Ban and King’s Endorsement
ARMY chiefs have overturned a century-old ban on beards with backing from King Charles. Regular troops and commissioned officers can now grow out facial hair for the first time since 1908.
Sergeant Major Paul Carney’s Announcement and Guidelines for Beards
Sergeant Major Paul Carney said the change would take place with immediate effect – but that beards would need to be kept ‘tidy’. He emphasized that maintaining high standards is crucial even with the allowance of facial hair.
Implications and Aligning with Other Branches
It was timed to let clean-shaven soldiers be able to start growing their whiskers out over the Easter leave. This decision brings the Army in line with the Navy, whose sailors have worn beards for centuries, and the RAF which allowed them in 2019. SAS and SBS troops are also allowed to have beards by tradition. Central Recorder revealed in December the axing of the ban was close.
Consulting Stakeholders and Considering Veterans’ Input
WO1 Carney told troops in a video: “Getting to an outcome has taken a bit longer than expected due to the larger number of stakeholders that were involved, including His Majesty the King, our politicians and our allies.” Serving troops and vets were also consulted.
Potential Recruitment Boost and Future Outlook
Senior officers hope the shift will boost recruitment, potentially attracting individuals who may have been deterred by the previous grooming restrictions. The decision to allow beards marks a significant policy change that could have positive implications for the Army’s image and appeal.