Thanks to his Punjabi and Hindi language skills, 26-year old Simran Preet Singh Lamba has become the first Sikh soldier in the US army in two decades to complete basic training without giving up articles of his faith.

Recruited in 2009 through the Military Accessions Vital to the National Interest (MAVNI) programme for his language skills, Lamba Wednesday completed basic training keeping his turban and unshorn hair at Fort Jackson outside Columbia.

"I am thrilled to serve with my fellow soldiers and serve the United States of America," said Lamba, who has become a US citizen.

"I humbly believe I was able to excel in all aspects of my training. Most importantly, I was overwhelmed by the support and camaraderie I felt with my fellow soldiers and base leadership. I thank them all and look forward to my service," he added.