Washington, DC (May 02, 2014): According to a news-letter by the Sikh Coalition the Office of the Pentagon Chaplain commemorated Vaisakhi, one of the most religiously significant days in the Sikh tradition, for the first time on April 25.
“The solemn ceremony took place in the Pentagon’s chapel in front of an interfaith gathering consisting of military leaders, congressional staffers, service members and Pentagon civilian employees. After introductory remarks by Pentagon Chaplain Col. Thomas C. Waynick, Major Kamaljeet Singh Kalsi, and Corporal Simran Preet Singh Lamba, a Ragi Jatha recited a Shabad by Guru Gobind Singh Jee:
Manas ki jaat sabhe ekai pechaanbo
Recognize the human race as one
Photo Source: Sikh Coalition
According to the news-letter, the Sikh community leader Inni Kaur then gave a powerful summary of Sikh theology and its emphasis on upholding equality and justice for all people, regardless of who they are.
After Ardaas led by Major Kamaljeet Singh Kalsi, community activist Valarie Kaur explained its significance and emphasized that Sikhs throughout the world pray daily for Chardi Kala (boundless optimism) and Sarbat Da Bhalla (the well being of humanity).
The Sikh Coalition has extended thanks to the Office of the Pentagon Chaplain, including Chaplain Col. Waynick, Chaplain Lt. Col. Wayne Brittian, and Sgt. Latoral Johnson, for organizing this historic event and to all participants for making it a day to remember.
The Sikh Coalition has stated that it shall continue to build awareness and appreciation of Sikh traditions in all walks of American life so that Sikh Americans face no limits, no matter what career they choose to pursue.