Sikh American Council mentee proves faith and military service can coexist at the highest level

According to the American Sikh Council, Chirag Veer Singh Sarao is the first "keshdhari" Sikh American to enroll in the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Unshorn hair (kesh) and a beard are considered articles of religion for a "keshdhari" Sikh.
According to the Council, Sarao was appointed to the US Air Force Academy (USAFA) on April 4 and was granted "religious accommodation" on June 20 in order to uphold his core identity and serve in accordance with his articles of faith. On June 24, In-Processing Day (I-Day), he formally enlisted in the USAF Academy. He is presently going through a six-week boot camp.

Prior to enrolling in the USAF Academy, Sarao was awarded full scholarships by the Naval ROTC and the Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC). Additionally, he was admitted to the University of Washington and the University of Southern California. According to the Council, Sarao competed on the varsity water polo team, was an Eagle Scout, earned a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo, and had a stellar academic record. One of the five federal service academies is the US Air Force Academy, which is situated in Colorado Springs. Graduates are commissioned as second lieutenants in the US Air Force or the US Space Force after completing undergraduate studies along with military and leadership training.