ARLINGTON, Va. (Diya TV) — Simratpal “Simmer” Singh, a U.S. Army officer whose fight to maintain his Sikh articles of faith helped change military policy, was promoted to lieutenant colonel on Nov. 26, the Sikh Coalition announced.

Singh’s promotion marks a milestone in a career defined by resilience, service, and advocacy for religious freedom in the U.S. military. The Army shared photos of the ceremony, where Singh reflected on his journey from rural Punjab, India, to the officer ranks.

“The Army and this Nation have given this village kid from Punjab far more than he deserves,” Singh said. “I hope to be able to give even a tenth of it back.”

Singh’s story has become a symbol of faith and determination in the military. The Sikh Coalition, which has supported Singh since 2015, highlighted his role in securing the right to wear his beard and turban in uniform. This change paved the way for a broader Army policy update in 2017, allowing Sikh soldiers to request religious accommodations without facing the same difficult choices Singh did early in his career.

Born in Punjab, Singh moved to the United States after his family fled political violence. He grew up partly in California and Seattle. Singh entered the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2006. At the time, the military required him to shave his beard, a core part of his Sikh faith. He complied but later said the decision weighed heavily on him.

“I felt like the very values that would make me a good Soldier are the ones I had violated,” he told the Army in a past profile.

Singh later connected with attorneys from the Sikh Coalition at an event in Washington, D.C. Their work led to a high-profile case that changed military rules. His success opened doors for future Sikh recruits in the Army and inspired similar policy changes in the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps.

Over nearly 20 years of service, Singh has built an impressive military record. He completed Ranger School, earned a Bronze Star for clearing explosive devices in Afghanistan, and taught at West Point. Singh now attends the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, preparing for further leadership roles.

Singh’s story has had a lasting impact on the U.S. military. His fight for religious accommodation has allowed Sikh soldiers across all branches to serve without compromising their faith. Military leaders now recognize the importance of diversity and religious freedom as vital to troop morale and retention.

“Faith and service can coexist,” Singh said. “I want every soldier to know they can honor both.”