Harpreetinder Bajwa Becomes First Airman To Be Allowed To Keep Turban, Beard By US Air Force

In a remarkable decision, the United States Air Force has allowed a Sikh airman to wear a turban, beard, and unshorn hair while performing his duty. Following the decision by the US Air Force, Airman Harpreetinder Singh Bajwa becomes the first active Airman to be granted such a religious accommodation.

Airman Harpreetinder Singh Bajwa, who joined the Air Force in 2017, was unable to follow the practice due to the military branch's grooming and dress codes.

The Air Force granted him an accommodation after Bajwa gained representation from the Sikh American Veterans Alliance, and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), NBC news reported.

"I’m overjoyed that the Air Force has granted my religious accommodation, said Bajwa.

"Today, I feel that my country has embraced my Sikh heritage, and I will be forever grateful for this opportunity," he said.

Earlier in 2016, Captain Simratpal Singh, a Sikh-American officer and combat veteran, received a long-term religious accommodation from the US Army to serve with long hair, a beard, and turban.