Sikh Jatenderpal Singh Bhullar Becomes First Buckingham Palace Guard To Wear Turban (PICTURES)

Sikh Becomes First Buckingham Palace Guard To Wear A Turban

A Sikh soldier has become the first guardsman to parade outside Buckingham Palace wearing a turban instead of the bearskin for 180 years.

Jatenderpal Singh Bhullar previously said being the first Sikh to mount guard in a turban would be the "best thing in his life".

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Jatenderpal Singh Bhullar says the regiment was full of history, as is his religion

The 25-year-old said: "Conducting public duties while being a practising Sikh and wearing my turban is a great honour for me.

"I am very proud to be a member of the Household Division and to be the first Sikh Guardsman to mount guard in a turban will be the best thing in my life, especially as a member of the Scots Guards.

"The regiment is full of history, as is my religion."

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Guardsman Bhullar is from the West Midlands

Guardsman Bhullar, from West Bromwich in the West Midlands, has just joined F Company Scots Guards - what is known as an "incremental company" of soldiers responsible for delivering ceremonial duties in London.

As a 5 K Sikh - someone who adheres to all five symbols that mark Sikh identify - he will also be distinguishable from his fellow soldiers on parade by his beard.

Sikhs in the Household Division have guarded the Queen many times before, but have always worn the bearskin.

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Officers wear grey coats during wet or cold weather

Sikh Chaplain to the Armed Forces Mandeep Kaur welcomed the move.

"Sikhs have served Britain in World War One and Two with their turbans intact, confirming their commitment towards righteousness and serving others and living their identity till their last breath.

"I applaud the British Army for being appreciative and respectful towards diversity.

"I salute the Scots Guards who have shown a great courage by adding more to their rich traditions."

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Sikhs served during both World Wars

Standard bearskins are 18 inches tall, weigh 1.5 pounds, and are made from the fur of the Canadian black bear. An entire skin is used for each hat.

Officers wear bearskins made from Canadian brown bears, for a fuller, thicker hat. The fur is then died black. as the female brown bear has thicker, fuller fur, and is dyed black. They cost around £650 each and last for years. Some are said to be over 100 years old.