Tribune News Service
Ludhiana, June 8

Amritpal Singh, a graduate in Electrical Engineering from Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College (GNDEC), has created a history by becoming the first turbaned Sikh officer in Royal Australian Navy (RAN) cadets.

Amrit was formally inducted recently. He is presently staying in Experance, Australia. He made his first public appearance with the Esperance Navy Cadets this ANZAC Day as a probationary instructor after officially joining in January.

The group first caught Singh’s interest with a display at the Esperance and Districts Agricultural Show. Giving details Amritpal said: “I’m already a part of the Esperance Volunteer Marine Rescue Service and SES, so I like having some fun at sea. This is something that is in my blood. The meaning of a Sikh is a saint or a soldier. The principle is that you need to be spiritually inclined and be brave and strong like a soldier. Being in the navy means you must be disciplined, while safeguarding the nation and 

the community.”

His role as an instructor included training and assisting with activities and drills. He hopes to rise through the ranks over time, after gaining more experience. He said: “It’s really crucial to motivate young people to participate at an early age. We have cadets from varying backgrounds and family situations, but they all come together and they’re all just cadets. There’s no distinction, there’s no special treatment, and everyone is equal. I love serving my community, that’s why I keep involved in lots of other stuff around town as well.”