US military permits Sikh soldier to wear beard, turban

Washington

The move makes Captain Simratpal Singh, a 28-year-old decorated combat veteran, the first active duty Sikh soldier to  receive approval to maintain his articles of faith while actively serving in the US Army.

He had sued the Defence Department last month in a first of its kind lawsuit, saying he was being subjected to “discriminatory” testing because of his turban and beard. He said he was being asked to undergo additional testing for his helmet and gas mask.

In a decision on March 31, the US military granted him the long-term religious accom modation by allowing him to continue serving his country while maintaining his articles of faith of keeping a beard and wearing the turban.

The Army granted the permanent accommodation, saying in a court document that it would only be revoked if the beard and turban affected  “unit cohesion and morale, good order and discipline, health and safety”.

“My military service continues to fulfil a lifelong dream,” said Captain Singh after receiving the decision in this regard from the US military.

“My faith, like many of the soldiers I work with, is an integral part of who I am. I am thankful that I no longer have to make the choice between faith and service to our nation,” said Singh.