What is the consequence if a beard is shaved or trimmed contrary to the medical profile?

• A. Counseling under UCMJ.
• B. The Soldier is in violation of UCMJ and must be counseled.
• C. They should be promoted.
• D. No action required.

Answer: (B)

A medical profile creates an approved exception to AR 670-1 grooming standards. When a soldier shaves or trims a beard in opposition to that profile, they are not following a sanctioned directive and are not in compliance with a required standard. Under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, failing to obey a regulation is an offense, so this situation is treated as a violation. The proper response is to counsel the soldier under UCMJ to address and correct the behavior, and to document the incident as part of enforcing compliance with the medical profile. Promotions or derision-free outcomes aren’t appropriate here, and no action would overlook a disciplinary violation.