Sergeant Major of the Army Raymond Chandler has put forth several new regulations covering aspects of dress, grooming, tattoos, and hair set to be put into action later this month. The changes are part of Chandler's effort to project a more uniform and professional Army.

Some of the proposed changes:

• Soldiers must be clean shaven on and off duty, including on leave.
• Tattoos will not be visible above the neck line when the physical fitness uniform is worn. Tattoos will not extend below the wrist line and not be visible on the hands. Sleeve tattoos will be prohibited. (This rule may be grandfathered.)
• Soldiers will not eat, drink, smoke, or talk on cellphones while walking.
• Army Combat Uniforms will not be commercially pressed; only hand ironing will be authorized.
• No visible body piercings will be allowed on or off duty. Males will not be allowed to wear earrings at any time. Ear gauging will be unauthorized.
• For more of the proposed regulations you can read the article at ArmyTimes.com.

While many soldiers have balked at some of these changes, Chandler insists that these new regulations are not part of an attempt to increase attrition, but a way to unify the appearance of Army soldiers across the world. Said Chandler; "You chose to join the Army, the Army didn't choose to join you."