This Veterans Day, we asked our colleagues who are both immigrants and veterans what becoming a U.S. citizen meant to them. We received a variety of responses, but a common theme was service and pride in becoming an American. Their responses and photos from past years of service are featured below.
“Becoming a U.S. citizen filled me with pride and lit a fire inside me that drove me to want to serve in gratitude for all that I was given.”
- Freddy Duron, Immigration Services Officer, Hialeah Customer Service Unit
Above: Freddy Duron, U.S. Army
"Duty, honor, country; these three words have guided me to become the citizen-soldier I am today. U.S. citizenship opened many doors of opportunities for myself and family. I’m glad to do my part to bear true faith and allegiance. God bless America!”
- David Salazar, Immigration Officer, Fraud Detection & National Security, San Bernardino Field Office
Above: David Salazar, U.S. Army Airborne
“Becoming a U. S. citizen meant a lot to me as it was the first time I felt like I had freedom and gave me all the opportunity life can afford.”
- Kelechi O Eke, Immigration Services Officer, Texas Service Center
Above: Kelechi O Eke, U.S. Army Veteran
“When I became a U.S. citizen it was a sense of belonging. Even though I was a Lawful Permanent Resident serving in the military, I still felt like a visitor. After becoming a U.S. citizen, this became my country. Immigrating to the U.S. and serving this great nation has been a great honor for my family and I.”
- Rashpal S. Virk (Rocky), Immigration Officer, Fraud Detection and National Security, Seattle Office
Above: Rashpal S. Virk, U.S. Navy Veteran
“Becoming a U.S. citizen was a proud moment because my new country accepted me. I could be what wanted regardless of my race or sex.”
- Andy Ffrenchnowden, Immigration Service Officer-2, Los Angeles County Field Office
Above: Andy Ffrenchnowden, U.S. Marines