Why is it necessary for basic cadets to have their hair cut short?
BCT is the transition from civilian to military life. Part of that transition is the uniformity of hair standards for the basic cadets. The rigors of BCT put great demands on personal hygiene. The time allocated for personal hygiene needs to be maximized and short hair helps. Women are not required to cut their hair as long as they are able to secure it in a manner that prevents if from falling in their face, obstructing vision, or touching the collar. It must present a neat, professional appearance at all times. The time requirement for a woman to get her hair within standards is two minutes. Following BCT, hair is cut and styled in the cadet barbershops for men and the cadet beauty shop for women.
