Should the Army make exceptions to uniform policy based on religious beliefs?

No and No. I do not wish to sound insensitive but I look at this objectively. This is an all volunteer military. You have the regulations, standards, and expectations before you CHOOSE to join. If they are not acceptable, you do not join.

Military is NOT an equal opportunity career and they explicit permission/reasons to discriminate. For example too old, too short, too young, otherwise physically incapable of accomplishing tasks or missions due to their disabilities. Those were just the physical sides.

A beard for example may interfere with the utilization of a gas mask for instance or are they expected to be provided a modified mask? Or, due to their unique needs, are they to be assigned rear detachment automatically due to the difficulties/challenges this may cause the command? How will this impact the perceptions and morale of the rest of the unit? This means more expenditures, logistical nightmares and more. I applaud that people from all walks of life and beliefs wish to serve their duty but they can wear as they choose off duty. They have vegetarian meals available, even in MRE's. Other choices should be out of pocket. Again, I apologize if I sound like a jerk but we don't assign religions, just missions.

nope. If your religious beliefs prohibit you from adhering to regulations, you should consider another career path.

I am in favor of making accommodations wherever possible. However, said accommodations should not be shouldered at taxpayer expense. Take for instance, the good Captain's headgear in the pic. He should pay for that himself and not be issued it (I know officers buy their own uniforms). Now this can open the door for some very "different" accommodation requests from smaller religious groups. So I think we need to apply some common sense. In the case of Sikhs, a blanket accommodation can be granted for the grooming and alternative headgear as it applies to all Sikhs. In other cases it should be considered on a case by case basis.

As far as the pro-mask goes, I am not sure if the beard will prevent a seal or not. I was always told that it would, but I was told many things during my time in the Army that weren't exactly true. I think if he is willing to accept that risk, then there is no issue. After all, no one is irreplaceable. If he dons a pro-mask during a chem attack, and he dies, the next in line steps up and takes charge. This may sound callous, but if he knows the risks, that's on him.