Colorado Springs (Rajeev Sharma): Chirag Veer Singh Sarao has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first keshdhari Sikh American to join the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA), marking a significant moment for Sikh representation in the US military.
The American Sikh Council announced that Sarao was admitted to the academy and received official religious accommodation, allowing him to continue observing Sikh practices, including maintaining unshorn hair and beard, while serving as a future military officer.
Sarao received his appointment to the USAFA on April 4, followed by approval of his religious accommodation on June 20. He officially reported to the academy on June 24 during the institution’s In-Processing Day, beginning a demanding six-week basic training programme.
His achievement comes after a strong academic and leadership record. Before entering the Air Force Academy, Sarao was awarded full scholarships through both the Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and the Naval Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. He was also accepted by leading universities, including the University of Southern California and the University of Washington.
Beyond academics, Sarao has built an impressive record of achievements. He is an Eagle Scout, holds a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo and has represented his school as a varsity water polo player.
The US Air Force Academy, located in Colorado Springs, is among the country’s five federal service academies. It provides students with a combination of higher education, military preparation and leadership training, with graduates commissioned as officers in the US Air Force or US Space Force.
Sarao’s entry into the academy represents a milestone for Sikh Americans seeking careers in the armed forces. Community leaders have described his accomplishment as an example of how religious accommodations can support greater diversity and inclusion within military institutions.
As he continues his training, Sarao joins a new generation of cadets preparing for leadership roles while carrying forward both his commitment to national service and his Sikh faith.
