“But more needs to be done to end the underlying presumptive ban on service by patriotic Sikh-Americans. Sikh-Americans love this country and want a fair chance to serve in our nation's military,” Crowley said.
Sikhs, he said, have served in the US Army since World War I, and they are permitted to serve in the armed forces of Canada, India, and the UK among others.
Notably, the current Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army is a turbaned and bearded Sikh, even though Sikhs constitute less than two per cent of India's population. Currently, three Sikh-Americans have been granted individualised accommodations to serve in the US Army.
“These patriotic soldiers wear turbans and maintain beards in a neat and conservative manner, both in accordance with operational requirements and their Sikh religious beliefs. They are also able to wear protective equipment, including helmets and gas masks, in conformity with safety requirements,” Crowley said.
In the letter circulated by Crowley, the lawmakers called on Hagel to consider the achievements of these soldiers and their demonstrated ability to comply with military requirements while practicing their faith.
“As you know, three devout Sikh-Americans have been granted individualised accommodations to serve in the US Army. These patriotic soldiers wear turbans and maintain beards in a neat and conservative manner, both in accordance with operational requirements and their Sikh religious beliefs,” the letter says.
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