HALIFAX: The First Canadian Sikh to join Canadian Armed Forces has withdrawn a request seeking voluntary discharge over a dispute involving mandatory use of Helmet.
Major John Ryan Chief instructor and acting Commander at Canadian Forces Base Corn Wallis said yesterday that Private Ranjeet Singh submitted a written request asking that he be allowed to remain in Force.
Mr. Singh 21 asked for dis charge on Thursday after he was told he would be required to wear a helmet in whatever military trade he entered. The Armed Force had made an exception to its dress code to allow Mr. Singh to keep his beard and wear a Turban and carry a ceremonial dagger but as a consequence of a surprise amendment following Mr. Singh’s basic training, Major Ryon said, “No trade is exempt to our helmets requirement”.
Major Ryon would not allow, Mr. Singh to be interviewed but said, Mr. Singh will work at the Base until Armed Forces Training system HQ in Trenton decides its future.
Article extracted from this publication >> May 2, 1986
