Thursday, 30 July 2009

Meet the First Sikh Soldiers to Guard the Queen

Armed and ready to protect One: Meet the first Sikh soldiers to guard the Queen

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 3:02 AM on 28th July 2009

These are the first two Sikh soldiers to have the honour of guarding the Queen.

Signaler Simranjit Singh, 26, and Lance Corporal Sarvjit Singh, 28, proudly pose with their guns while on duty in the grounds of Buckingham Palace.

Signaler Singh made history as the very first Sikh soldier to wear his turban on Public Duties guarding the monarch and protecting the Crown Jewels. He was soon joined by Lance Corporal Singh.

Signaler Simranjit Sim Singh and Lance Corporal Sarvjit Singh

On duty: Signaler Simranjit Singh (left) and Lance Corporal Sarvjit Singh (right) are the first Sikh soldiers to guard the Queen

The proud soldier from Coventry enthusiastically took on the duty for the first time in May this year.

He serves with 21st Signal Regiment based in Chippenham, Wiltshire, while Lance Corporal serves with 3rd Regiment Army Air Corps based at Wattisham, Suffolk.

Turbans, long hair and beards are considered a mandatory religious uniform for all Sikhs.

Keeping uncut hair is required according to the Rehat Maryada, the Sikh instruction for living.

Sikh guards

Tradition: Turbans, long hair and beards are considered a mandatory religious uniform for all Sikhs

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