February 17th was Ash Wednesday, a day recognized by Catholic and some liturgical Protestant denominations by the placing of ashes or oil on the forehead.  As seen in a variety of pictures provided by the Department of Defense, this was a religious celebration that was able to occur even in a war zone: 

Ash Wednesday in Iraq. DoD Photo (Spc Daniel Schneider)

While the US military’s abundant support of free exercise enabled these Soldiers to partake in the religious celebration, there are obviously certain limitations in the combat theatre.  For example, the Soldiers would obviously not be able to refuse to put their protective gear (helmets) on because of the oil or ash on their forehead.

By the same token, there is no indication that the Soldiers were required to wipe off the religious observances prior to returning to combat.  Like their freedom to wear a cross or carry a Bible, even in combat, US Soldiers may go into combat on Ash Wednesday with the evident Christian symbol of ash on their forehead.  The US military does not restrict that religious observance of its troops, despite potential and hypothetical offense that might be felt by those whom the US military is fighting.  (See the discussion from last year.)

There is no prohibition on the wearing of ash while in uniform, whether in combat or non-combat areas.

US Soldiers weren’t the only ones publicly celebrating their faith.  As he did last year, Vice President Joe Biden also wore ashes for the day.  Again, as last year, it was an unreported event, except for a photo that accompanied an unrelated story:

Biden on February 17, 2010 in Washington. UPI photo/Olivier Douliery

President Obama also issued a short official statement marking Ash Wednesday.