GULF OF OMAN -- Sailors aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) donated their hair to the non-profit organization Locks of Love, Dec. 15.
According to the Locks of Love website, their mission is to bring self-confidence and normalcy back to people younger than 21 who have suffered hair loss.
"I want to donate because it has personally touched my family," said Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Courtney Carr, a donor. "Even though Locks of Love mainly donates to children, they supplied a wig to my grandma when she was sick."
Hair donations are at least 10 inches long, and contained in a ponytail or braid, clean and dry.
"All of us have ridiculously long hair," said Carr. "After donating three times and currently meeting the minimum standards, the other girls and I decided it would be a good idea to donate."
Locks of Love requires longer hair so the children can adjust the length to their personal preference.
"If my hair is long enough for me to donate, then why not do it," said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Nenita Stockwell. "Knowing my hair can make a person smile again or make them feel confident makes me feel good."
Locks of Love founder Madonna Coffman and her family were personally affected by hair loss as a result of an incurable medical condition. Since that time, she has made it her personal mission to help children throughout the United States and Canada.
"Being deployed makes it difficult, but this will be my way of giving back," said Carr.
After the hair cutting is finished, it will be placed in a plastic bag and mailed to Locks of Love. Recognition for donation can be filled out through a form provided on the Locks of Love website. Requesting hair to be sent to a specific family is also an option.
"People may be hesitant about cutting their hair," said Carr. "Keep in mind it will grow back and it's for the children."
Truman, flagship for the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, supporting theater security cooperation efforts and supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
