I respectfully submit this request because maintaining a beard is an important part of my held Islamic faith. As I have grown in my relationship with Allah, I have come to understand the beard as more than a physical appearance; it is a visible expression of my commitment to live according to the teachings and example of the Prophet Muhammad. Wearing a beard helps me feel connected to my faith, reminds me daily of my religious responsibilities, and strengthens my sense of identity as a Muslim.
For me, this request is not based on personal preference, fashion, or convenience. It comes from a real desire to practice my faith as faithfully as possible. Being required to shave would place me in conflict with my religious convictions and would cause me spiritual discomfort because I would feel that I am not fully living in accordance with what I sincerely believe Allah has commanded of me.
Granting this accommodation would allow me to continue serving while remaining true to my faith and conscience. I believe it would strengthen my spiritual well being, personal integrity, and ability to serve with focus and dedication.
While my religious preference would be to maintain my beard at its natural, full length as an expression of my faith, I am fully prepared and willing to comply with previously established Army religious accommodation beard standards and any grooming requirements associated with an approved accommodation. My goal is not to seek special treatment, but rather to practice my faith in a manner that allows me to continue serving honorably while respecting the needs of the Army. I remain committed to maintaining a professional appearance, military discipline, and mission readiness at all times.
My request is rooted in my belief that following the example of the Prophet Muhammad is an important part of my religious practice. The Qur'an instructs believers to follow the guidance and example of the Prophet, and throughout my faith journey I have understood maintaining a beard to be one way of honoring that obligation. Wearing a beard serves as a constant reminder of humility, discipline, obedience to Allah, and my commitment to living as a practicing Muslim.
Request for Religious Accommodation - SGT XXXX, XXXX, XXH EN CO
1. I request a religious accommodation to wear and maintain a beard in accordance with the standards provided in Army Regulation (AR) 600-20.
2. This request is based on the Norse Paganism cultural and spiritual beliefs that men should wear beards as a sign of both their masculinity and freedom. This belief is mentioned many times in the cultural and spiritual text of Norse paganism. Both the elder and younger Edda's (Norse Paganism spiritual texts) reference beards and their importance. A well-groomed and healthy beard is an important aspect of Norse paganism.
3. I understand that I must continue to comply with the uniform and grooming standards of AR 670-1 for non-accommodated Soldiers unless I am notified that my request is approved. If my request is disapproved, I understand I may continue to serve without an accommodation or I may request administrative separation. I also understand that an approved accommodation continues throughout my Army career, but may be suspended, modified, or revoked by appropriate authorities when required by military necessity.
4. The point of contact for this request is the undersigned at 719-XXX-XXXX or gimili.h.eartwood.mil@army.mil
[DATE]
1. I request a religious accommodation to wear and maintain a beard in accordance with the standards provided in Army Regulation (AR) 600- 20.
2. I request a religious accommodation for a waiver of Army Regulation (AR) 670-1 standards to wear and maintain a beard.
3. This request is based on my belief in Norse Heathenry. There are two primary pantheons in Norse Heathenry: Aesir and Vanir. The Aesir gods include Odin, Thor, and Tyr, while the Vanir gods are associated with fertility and nature. I honor three gods in my life: Odin, Thor, and Tyr. Odin is revered as the father and leader of the Aesir gods and is known for his wisdom. Thor embodies strength and Tyr embodies justice. I provide offerings to these gods which include food, herbs, and candles at an altar. I typically include statues of Odin, Thor, and Tyr, as well as a Yggdrasil tree, a sacred symbol of Norse mythology. Beards are viewed with reverence in Norse Heathen culture, and are considered a defining feature of the Norse. Every male god has a beard, which is associated with masculinity and being a Warrior and growing a beard will bring me closer to the Gods, allowing me to better identify with and reflect their image. It is an expression of my deep spirituality and an important part of my Norse identity. I will be able to identify more closely with my masculinity. If I continue to shave, I will not feel close to the gods and feel there will be separation. Also, I will not feel I identify with the gods. I will not feel that I am adequately pleasing the Gods and believe it would be shameful to not have a beard.
4. I understand that I must continue to comply with the uniform and grooming standards of AR 670-1 for non-accommodated Soldiers unless I am notified that my request is approved. If my request is disapproved, I understand I may continue to serve without an accommodation or I may request administrative separation. I also understand that an approved accommodation continues throughout my Army career, but may be suspended, modified, or revoked by appropriate authorities when required by military necessity.
5. The point of contact for this request is the undersigned at 719-XXX-XXXX or gandalf.j.hobbit.mil@army.mil.
AFDR-EAACUI
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
1 BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM 10 MOUNTAIN DIVISION (LI)
10632 S RIVA RIDGE LOOP
FORT ORUM Nf-W YORK 13602
29 March 2024
MEMORANDUM FOR RECORD
SUBJECT: Request For Religious Accommodation For Service Member
1. The purpose of this memorandum is to state that the following individual requests religious accommodation:
a. Name
b. Rank
c. DODID
d. Religion
e. Company
f. MOS
2. Service Member is requesting the authorization to grow a beard not to exceed two inches, properly groomed, presenting a professional appearance, and not impeding with daily duties IAW AR 670-1 Chapter 3, Paragraph 16.
3. According to religion, a beard represents a status symbol and shows you to be an honorable member of society.
4. Service Member has practiced religion since May 2013. Service Member regularly practices religion through meditation and prayer.
5. The POC for this memorandum is Service Member.
NAME
RANK, USA
POSITION
