Simratpal Singh, a military officer by profession and a Sikh in his religous faith, has been granted an exemption by the United Armed Forces to abide by both. Captain Singh can now wear a beard and a turban while serving his country on active duty.
It was a right that he had to fight for. Until a military court tribunal ruled in his decision in what the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty called a "historic accomodation," Singh felt torn by his two loyalties for ten years. According to CNN, Singh had asked for the exception in October 2015 and was granted a temporary approval in December; he was the first of his religious community to do so. After the exemption expired in February of this year, he was recalled to do additional testing in order to wear a gas and a helmet, which went beyond the usual requirements.
Singh filed a case against the U.S. Department of Defense with the Becket Fund, the Sikh Coalition, and McDermot Will and Emery as his co-counsel. The exception was granted last week.
According to WND, Becket Fund lawyer Eric Baxter was enthused about the court's decision. He said, "No American should have to face religious discrimination to serve their country - especially not top-notch, battle-tested soldiers like Captain Singh. We will continue fighting for the right of all Sikh Americans to serve without violating their faith."
A memorandum released by Assistant Secretary of the Army Debra Wada outlined the reasons and the conditions that support exemption. Singh can wear his turban, beard, and uncut hair while performing non-hazardous duties. His "neat and conservative manner" should present a professional groomed appearance.
The Good News Network describes Singh as a celebrated career officer. He graduated West Point with honors in 2010. He received various military accolades in many assignments including the Bronze Star in his tour of duty in Aghanistan.
