WASHINGTON, MAY 27
PTI
A US Congressman has moved an amendment into the
Defence Authorisation bill which lauds the diversity
in the American armed forces and acknowledges the
contribution of the Sikh community to the military.
The amendment, moved by Congressman Joseph Crowley,
seeks to salute the the diverse ethnicity and religious
beliefs in the American Armed Forces and particularly
commends the contribution of Specialist
Uday Singh, the first American Sikh to die
while fighting in Iraq.
"Specialist Singh joined the military because
he believed in what the United States represents and
because he felt the strong desire to fight for the
freedoms we have here," Crowley said.
The Crowley amendment was included in the en-bloc
managers amendment and the final bill passed.
"Diversity is an essential part of the strength
of the Armed Forces, in which members having different
ethnic backgrounds and faiths share the same goal
of defending the cause of freedom, democracy and liberty,"
he said.
Crowley represents one of the most diverse districts
in the country, including one of the largest populations
of Indian Americans in the country.
As former co-chair of the Caucus on India and Indian
Americans, he said he was personally committed to
ensuring that the contribution of all Americans are
recognized.
"At a time when racism and discrimination still
exist, I feel that it is especially important to take
a moment to recognize and appreciate the contribution
of Americans like Mr. Singh. These men and women gave
their lives, sacrificed time with their families and
bravely served their countries in the war on terror,"
Crowley said.