(New York, NY) September 1, 2010 – For the third time in less than a year, the U. S. Army has accepted a turbaned and bearded Sikh recruit. The recruit, Mr. Simran Preet Singh Lamba, sought an accommodation that would allow him to maintain his religiously-mandated turban, beard, and hair while serving in the U.S. Army. The accommodation marks another major step toward ending a nearly 30-year-old policy that excludes Sikhs from service in the U.S. military.

 “I am grateful to Army leadership for allowing me to serve America,” said Mr. Lamba.  “There is nothing about my Sikh religious beliefs that prevents me from excelling as a soldier.  I look forward to serving this great country with honor.”

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