Sikh in Royal New Zealand Air force
Five months of intensive training paid off as 10
members of the Royal New Zealand Air Force initial officer training course
graduated at Base Woodbourne, in Marlborough, yesterday afternoon. The course
was the second of the year, with graduates trained on the skills and knowledge
expected of junior officers. Flying Officer Beer Bains, of Auckland, was one of
the 10 graduates. He came to New Zealand in 2000 from Punjab, India, and said he
was looking forward to starting his role as a junior engineering officer at Base
Auckland. "This is where I want to be," he said. "The training was good, but I'm
dying to get there and getting right amongst it
Next day a lady in " letters to the editor "
questioned as below
Beard and turban
You published a picture and story about the
latest course of officers graduating from Base Woodbourne ["Air force officers
graduate in style", Express, October 26]. Why is Flying Officer Beer Bains able
to sport a fully grown beard and wear a turban as a New Zealand Air Force
officer graduate? Mr Bains is quoted as saying the discipline and high integrity
of a military life appealed to him. It was my understanding that men must be
clean shaven with tidy hair and wear their full uniform, no exceptions or
excuses. Does this mean that all men can now have long hair and beards plus
choice of hat while graduating in our New Zealand Air Force? ~ WENDY
MOORE
Queen
Charlotte Sound Defence communications group spokesman Squadron Leader Tawhiao
Coromandel responds:
The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) is an
"inclusive organisation", just like New Zealand society. While not widely
appreciated by members of the public, our uniform code contains provisions that
are consistent with the Human Rights Act and our inclusive philosophies.
Accordingly, as a member of the Sikh faith, Flying Officer Bains deportment and
attire as pictured in the Express are completely consistent with our uniform
code, eg, he is wearing the air force turban issued to him for ceremonial
duties. Members of the Sikh faith have strong historical links with the Crown
and the Commonwealth, having fought and died alongside British and Kiwi troops
in a number of wars. The RNZAF isn't the only force to welcome Sikhs with turban
and beard to serve their country, while also remaining true to their religious
faith. Our allies and friends around the world have been doing so for many
years, and there are Sikhs serving in the New Zealand police, the British army,
the Canadian forces, and the US army, etc. We are very pleased that Flying
Officer Bains has chosen to serve with the air force.
--
No comments:
Post a Comment