Do you believe Sikhs should be allowed to serve in the United States Armed forces?

Question

Currently, Sikhs are not allowed to server in the U.S. Armed Forces(Army, Navy or Military) with a full beard and a Turban. However, Sikhs serve in the military and police force in both Canada, England and several other countries. In fact, there is a Sikh Regiment serving for the United Nations in Iraq to maintain peace.

In the United States, prior to World War I, Sikhs were allowed to serve in the military. There was a Sikh named Bhagat Singh Thind who served in the U.S. Army, alongside the allied forces in World War One.

When he returned at the end of the war, he was denied citizenship.

The Supreme Court Case: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_v._Bhagat_Singh_Thind

Do you believe Sikhs should be allowed to serve in the United States Armed Forces?

Answer 1

I don't see why religon should be a boundary. If a Sikh was born in America and very patriotic, then he or she should have the right to protect the country they love. Its a rule in the military to keep clean faces. If you see military movies, new recruits get their heads shaved and beards cut off right when they get into the military.  

Answer 2

Obviously they should be. But we can't tolerate that kind of breach of uniform standards. I'd be fine with the turban, but the beard is too much.  

Answer 3

Yes, but they would have to conform to military regulations.  I don't think they would be allowed to keep a beard and turban.

Answer 4

No. Not without adhering to US Military Code. It would open a door for every special case to want special circumstances. The fact that they served in British and Canadian forces has more to do with their being a part of the British Empire than freedom.

Answer 5

That is a great idea. Sikhs have a good reputation.