Let me be clear - we were not given a free pass on any of the safety and uniformity standards that protect and define soldiers. We completed basic training and proved that we could wear protective gear, including helmets and gas masks. We were required to maintain our beards neatly and wear turbans of a specific color to match our uniforms.
Two of us successfully deployed to Afghanistan. The three of us have received awards and promotions for our service. Far from being an impediment, our faith gives us the strength to succeed as soldiers, just as it did for my father and grandfather and for thousands of Sikhs in armies throughout the world.