Chirag Veer Singh Sarao has become the first keshdhari (observant) Sikh American to join the prestigious United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) while being permitted to wear his Sikh articles of faith, marking a significant milestone for religious inclusion in the US Armed Forces.
Academy appointment
Sarao was appointed to the academy on April 4, 2026, and received official religious accommodation on June 20, allowing him to maintain his unshorn hair (kesh), beard and other Sikh articles of faith during military service. He officially entered the academy on June 24, known as In-Processing Day (I-Day), and is currently undergoing the academy's six-week basic cadet training programme.
The American Sikh Council (ASC) described Sarao's admission as an important step towards greater diversity and inclusion in the US military, where Sikhs have historically faced challenges in serving while adhering to their religious identity.
Other university selections
Sarao's journey to the academy reflects years of academic excellence, leadership and community service. Before choosing the Air Force Academy, he earned full scholarships from both the Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corps (AFROTC) and the Naval Reserve Officers' Training Corps (NROTC). He was also accepted into the University of Southern California (USC) and the University of Washington, highlighting his impressive academic credentials.
About the academy
Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the United States Air Force Academy is one of the five federal service academies in the United States. It combines a four-year undergraduate education with intensive military and leadership training. Graduates are commissioned as Second Lieutenants in either the US Air Force or the US Space Force, making admission to the academy highly competitive.
Over the past decade, policies allowing Sikh service members to wear turbans, beards and other articles of faith have opened new opportunities for observant Sikhs to serve without compromising their religious identity. His admission is expected to inspire more Sikh American youth to consider careers in the armed forces while proudly embracing their faith.
