A US Navy sailor who converted to Islam as a teen is permitted to grow a four-inch beard while on duty.
Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Leo Katsareas has been given the go-ahead to grow his fist-length beard, thanks to a waiver granted by the Navy’s personnel chief.
The waiver is only specific to the auxiliary security force member’s ship, the USS George Washington, and he may have to request a waiver once he transfers to a new vessel.
