[Alberta's Child]

No thanks. Those guys grew beards because they helped them identify with the Muslim tribal people there in Afghanistan. F#%& that.

[mad_as_he$$]

Uh, no. They grew beards so they couldn’t be easily picked out of a crowd and for security back home.

[Ace's Dad]

Those guys grew beards because they helped them identify with the Muslim tribal people there in Afghanistan. F#%& that

You're so correct in your analysis. They did it as deception. I think it worked. It comes with the "Lie, Cheat & Steal" part of warfare.

I'm damn proud to be a U.S.Navy Officer, I get up and shave every morning!

And yes, I lie to democrats if I have to!

[Wyrd bið ful aræd]

In Afghan culture (such as it is) beards are integral to masculine identity. The ancient Greeks, especially Spartans, the Norse, and other cultures noted for their warrior prowess held a similar notion on facial hair. Our guys growing beards didn't just help them assimilate with the indigenous forces they were leading, it's an aspect of demonstrating their alpha status and cementing their leadership role.

On a more practical note it helped them blend in and not present an obviously American target, gave a bit of disguise to help with personal security...And on an even more practical note it's probably pretty difficult to shave when your living in a cave in Afghanistan.

When I grow one I invariably feel grubby and unkempt, unless I keep it short and keep the edges sharp, which probably looks fussy and metro. On the 1 or 2 occasions I've really let it go I start to smell stuff I ate days ago, no matter how much I wash it.

[shanover]

The beard BS started with the Muslitards. I think they are stupid looking on most men.Some can do it right but most are absurd. The beard thing in sports is grotesque.