As previously noted, a doctor and a dentist, both practicing Sikhs, have been petitioning to be allowed to serve in the US Army.  Current military regulations prevent their service because their religious accoutrements–including their turbans and kirpans–cannot be accommodated.

A news release now reports that 41 members of the US House of Representatives have sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Robert Gates in support of changing the military uniform policy for Sikhs.  Though the letter is not yet publicly available, it is quoted as saying:

We do not believe that any American should have to choose between his religion and service to our country, and urge you to take all necessary steps to ensure that these two officers – and other Sikhs that may wish to serve – are able to maintain their articles of faith.

The precedent for this request was previously discussed.

As noted at the Blog from the Capital.