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Norse gods are so hot right now, whether it be Thor in Avengers: Infinity War or in Gods of War 4. Even U.S. Army soldiers cannot resist worshipping Norse gods. One soldier was so dedicated to the ancient Scandinavian religion that he asked for permission to rock a beard despite the U.S. military traditionally being against facial hair.
Starting in January of 2017, the U.S. military began being more accepting of soldiers having beards in the name of religious acceptance including dedicated Sikhs who wanted to serve in the military but also honor their religion’s guidelines. While a beard is not required in the Norse pagan faith, having one is typical and encouraged. The soldier worships Thor, the hammer-wielding god of thunder, and Odin, the one-eyed god of wisdom and healing.
An anonymous 795th Military Police Battalion soldier reportedly made the request and it was permitted by commander Col. Curtis Shroedero who said, “I grant your accommodation, subject to the standards and limitations described below. In observance of your Heathen; Norse Pagan faith, you may wear a beard, in accordance with Army uniform and grooming standards for soldiers with approved religious accommodations.”
Starting in World War I the military prohibited beards due mostly to the introduction of chemical warfare and they weren’t congruent when wearing gas masks. However, the policy has made exceptions such as special operations soldiers serving in the Middle East who grew beards to blend in with general populations. This isn’t the first time the military has acknowledged ancient Norse pagan religion. In 2013, Veterans Affairs approved engraving Thor’s indestructible hammer Mjölnir on VA-issued headstones and markers.