Courtesy Photo | Sgt. Michael Williams, a cargo handler with the 21st Inland Cargo Transfer Company,...... read more read more
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VICTORY BASE COMPLEX, Iraq — Veterans Day took on another special meaning when 157 service members from 60 countries were granted their United States citizenship in a ceremony held, Nov. 11, at Al-Faw Palace.
Over 1,300 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines have received their citizenship while serving in Iraq, said the ceremony's host, Lt. Gen. Charles H. Jacoby, Jr., commanding general of the Multi-National Corps — Iraq.
"They have already been contributing in the most meaningful way to the strength of our nation, while looking forward to the day when they could claim citizenship in America," said Jacoby. "They have embraced the call to serve our country and offer their talents, abilities, and futures as members of the United States armed forces, while working together to accomplish the mission here in Iraq."
"I can think of no better time, no better place, and no better way to honor the devoted service of these men and women, than celebrate the American traditions of inclusion, acceptance, and service," said Jacoby about the ceremony, which was the 15th to be held in Iraq.
One Soldier taking part in the ceremony was Sgt. Michael Williams, a cargo handler with the 21st Inland Cargo Transfer Company from Ft. Lewis, Wash. Williams was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and was living in New York City when a family member encouraged him to join the Army. "My aunt is in the military, so she got me in," Williams said. Williams began the process of getting his citizenship two months ago, after being encouraged by a fellow Soldier, and says that "being a citizen opens up a lot of opportunities."
The process took considerably more time for Pfc. Ancharad Simeon Shoon, a truck driver with the 1218th Transportation Company, 541st Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 96th Sustainment Brigade. Shoon, 21, was born in Trinidad and Tobago, and moved to Miami, Fla., 13 years ago. He began applying for his citizenship five years ago while in high school, and says that some of his family members are still in the process of getting theirs.
"It's a big accomplishment, especially for my family," said Shoon. "Now that I have it, things will be a lot easier for me, and a lot easier for my future family."
Williams also appreciated the importance of the ceremony. ""It feels overwhelming just being a part of this event, finally getting my citizenship, and getting to spend this moment with my wife," he said. "I'm very glad." Williams' wife, Spc. Cristina Williams is also serving in Iraq as a member of the 21st ICTC.
In his speech, Jacoby praised the efforts of the service members receiving their citizenship, and officially welcomed the new Americans. "You have really taken up the mantel of responsibility, and with your actions, demonstrated your allegiance to America," he said. "You represent opportunity, resilience, and a freshness of the American spirit. Today, we welcome you as brothers and sisters and as fellow citizens of our great nation."
| Date Taken: | 11.25.2009 |
| Date Posted: | 11.25.2009 03:33 |
| Story ID: | 41983 |
| Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 295 |
| Downloads: | 263 |
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