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    Grow for a Cause: National Guard Members Support No Shave November

    COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, UNITED STATES

    11.22.2024

    Story by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver 

    South Carolina National Guard

    As the crisp air of November rolls in and thoughts turn to turkey and football, there's another seasonal activity that’s gaining momentum: "No Shave November." This annual event is not just an excuse to ditch the razor but an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for cancer prevention, research, and education. While many men grow out their full beards, National Guard members face a unique challenge: military regulations. But don’t worry, Guardsmen—you can still participate in this hair-raising movement by sporting a mustache instead of a beard!

    While the Army has traditionally maintained strict grooming standards, recent updates have provided more flexibility regarding facial hair. According to Army Regulation 670-1, male Soldiers are permitted to grow mustaches, provided they are neatly trimmed and do not extend beyond the upper lip line or the corners of the mouth. Beards, however, remain generally prohibited, except under specific circumstances such as religious accommodations or medical conditions.

    “I look forward to November every year,” says Staff Sgt. Jimmy Townsend, a member of the Recruiting and Retention Battalion. “I get to grow a mustache, raise awareness for a good cause, and stay within the guidelines. It’s a win-win.”

    No Shave November started as a grassroots movement but has grown into a global initiative. Participants are encouraged to donate the money they would typically spend on shaving products to cancer-related charities. Even if you can’t grow a beard, your contribution and awareness efforts make a big difference.

    So, for all you National Guard members out there, it’s time to take a stand—or rather, grow—for the cause. Trim that mustache to regulation perfection, spread the word, and help make this month count. Together, we can support the fight against cancer one whisker at a time.
    “Whether it’s a mustache or a beard, what really matters is the cause behind it,” says Staff Sgt. Jimmy Townsend. “Every bit of awareness helps in the battle against cancer.”

    So, Guardsmen, this November, let’s grow for a cause. Your mustache might be small, but the impact you can make is enormous.

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 11.22.2024
    Date Posted: 12.04.2024 11:14
    Story ID: 485920
    Location: COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, US

    Web Views: 15
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN