Monday, May 25, 2026

Memorial Day Navy, Part 2 - Beards


In a more civilized era than today, the U.S. Navy allowed men to wear beards and even staged 
contests for growing them.  Today we look at some World War II bearded swabbies. 
 I'd go on shore leave with any of these three fine sailors.

 

4 comments:

  1. Allowing the beards to grow also saved on fresh water, a perpetual shortage on Navy ships and especially submarines. Never shaved with salt water but I've been told it ain't pleasant-Dee Exx

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  2. The Navy’s primary objection to beards isn't just about a uniform look; it's a safety hazard. Facial hair prevents an airtight seal on critical life-saving gear, specifically chemical/biological defense gas masks and the emergency firefighting respirators used constantly aboard ships and submarines.

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  3. In wartime it seems some dress and grooming regulations go out the window for morale’s sake….:)

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