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Ponytails, Are they in or out for females in the Marine Corps?
Change is continuous in the Armed Forces, a major change every branch of service has implemented, except the Marine Corps is authorized the use of ponytails for females in uniform. In an effort to retain Marines, back in November of 2021 the SgtMaj of the Marine Corps Troy Black, said they are considering this change.
Change is continuous in the Armed Forces, a major change every branch of service has implemented, except the Marine Corps is authorized the use of ponytails for females in uniform.
The truth of the matter is, that this is a big deal. The Marine Corps is known as the toughest of all branches, the best uniform, and an unmatched professionalism. The thought of a ponytail in uniform is upsetting to some, calling it unprofessional, some even a safety hazard, when working on aircrafts. That’s a fair statement, and during the duration of working on an aircraft or equipment where loose hair may be seen as hazardous, take the proper precautions. However, right now most Marines are working administrative positions in which having a ponytail will not be hazardous to the workplace.
Currently ponytails are already authorized to wear during physical fitness events. Another active-duty Marine said,
“Authorizing Marines to wear ponytails in uniform would allow to have a proper fit of their Kevlar and sometimes having a bun can obstruct that.”
I personally noticed that immediately during my pre-deployment training, I ended up cutting my hair in a bob while in Afghanistan so that my Kevlar was a snug fit.
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Marine Corps Veteran Frances Meza said, “Was in for 15 and just got out on terminal. I look at pictures from when I joined to now and my hairline is far back. Also I have had scalp issues caused by all the crap we put in our hair to wear no medication was working and had to chop off my waist length hair. I still have some scalp issues.”
Marine Corps Veteran Anna Dittmer said, “I’ve been out of the marine corps for 3 years now and I still suffer from the effects from having a bun. My hairline isn’t like it used to be and my hair sometimes falls out in chunks still because I’ve gotten in the habit of putting my hair tight to ensure it looks good”
During a recent uniform board where this topic was discussed, the panel was unanimous on the decision of being pro-ponytails. Clearly the Marine Corps is aware of all the hair issues these Marines and Veterans are having. Now in typical Marine Corps fashion, we hurry up and wait and see what the final decision will be.
