Maintenance window scheduled to begin at February 14th 2200 est. until 0400 est. February 15th

(e.g. yourname@email.com)

Forgot Password?

    Defense Visual Information Distribution Service Logo

    FDNF Sailors become US citizens

    FDNF Sailors become US citizens

    Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian Sloan | 150326-N-CS616-031 YOKOSUKA, Japan (March 26, 2015) Service members deliver the Oath...... read more read more

    YOKOSUKA, JAPAN

    03.27.2015

    Courtesy Story

    USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73)

    By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brian Sloan

    YOKOSUKA, Japan – Five Sailors stationed aboard the forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) were among those who received certificates of U.S. citizenship during a naturalization ceremony at the Chapel of Hope in Fleet Activities Yokosuka, March 26.

    Eleven service members, 16 spouses and five children representing several different nationalities took the oath of allegiance during the ceremony.

    “I was honored to witness such a momentous event, both for our newest fellow citizens and for our country. America is an even better nation today because they are now a part of it. I am very proud of our five shipmates,” said Capt. Timothy Kuehhas, commanding officer, USS George Washington.

    Prospective citizens are required to apply and go through a background check, and pass tests in written and spoken English and American history.

    "It takes a lot of time and a lot of dedication to get through the naturalization process," said Capt. David Glenister, commanding officer, Fleet Activities Yokosuka.

    Glenister thanked each individual for their decisions to serve in the U.S. Navy and become American citizens, and emphasized the importance of diversity in the United States.

    “You bring to America a greater strength through diversity,” said Glenister. “Through this worldwide culture you make us stronger because you are with us, and I thank you for all the great things you are going to do for us as American citizens.”

    The ceremony concluded with a reciting of the oath of allegiance and each candidate receiving their certificates of citizenship. For new citizens, like Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Airman Yamkey Assomou, originally from the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, the ceremony represented a significant personal accomplishment.

    "I’m very grateful for what this nation has offered me," said Assomou. "Being naturalized was a major milestone in my life, and I'm happy to be in the Navy and support such a great cause.”

    LEAVE A COMMENT

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 03.27.2015
    Date Posted: 03.27.2015 18:17
    Story ID: 158416
    Location: YOKOSUKA, JP

    Web Views: 73
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN