US: A turbaned Army officer in decades

Captain Tejdeep Singh Rattan graduated from basic training on Monday in San Antonio to great fanfare from the Sikh-American community.  Rattan is the first turbaned Sikh officer in the United States to complete basic training in over two decades, says a release.

"I am overjoyed to serve my country, work with my fellow soldiers, and to have completed basic training," said Rattan.

"Most importantly, in preparation for my work as a soldier, I was able to successfully complete all aspects of my initial training.  I had an overwhelmingly positive experience. I am very thankful to the base command, Army leadership, and my fellow soldiers. I look forward to continuing to serve my country."

Rattan was recruited to join the Army's Health Professions Scholarship Program several years ago.  He maintained his turban throughout his dental education.  Nevertheless, after completing his education, he was told that he must remove his religiously-mandated turban and unshorn hair before he began active duty.

Last April, he submitted a request to the Army asking that he be allowed to maintain his turban and beard while serving the Army.  This past December, the Army granted his request for accommodation.

Contrary to the concerns of some, Rattan was able to meet all the requirements of a solider during basic training.  He wore a helmet over a small turban during field exercises. During gas mask exercises, he successfully created a seal. He also built strong bonds with the soldiers in his platoon.

"We are pleased to learn that Tejdeep's experience demonstrates that Sikh service in the US Army meets military necessity," said Harsimran Kaur, Legal Director, Sikh Coalition.

"Turbaned Sikhs previously served the American military with distinction in every major armed conflict over the past 100 years. While it is unfortunate that Sikhs were excluded from the military for the past two decades, I hope we will soon turn a page and
restore Sikh service in the U.S. military. Sikhs freely serve in the militaries of Great Britain, Canada and India, and as United Nations Peacekeepers.  Whether through Tejdeep's experience here in Fort Sam Houston or through the experience of hundreds of thousands of Sikh soldiers in militaries throughout the world, we know Sikhs are capable soldiers. We look forward to the day when the U.S. Army again welcomes the service of all Sikhs," he said.