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An honorable day: Air Commandos earn citizenship

  • Published
  • By Desiree Ann Montenegro
  • 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Three Air Commandos earned their U.S. citizenship during a ceremony at the Landing Zone at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., Feb. 8.

Airman 1st Class Fabio Castellanos and Airman 1st Class Mike Waga, 27th Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron and Airman 1st Class Maria Guerrero, 27th Special Operations Force Support Squadron, were all warmly introduced into their new official national role.

Guerrero was born in Guanajuato, Mexico; however, she came to the United States when she was six years old.

"My goal is to be an officer and that is why I am enthusiastic about earning my citizenship," said Guerrero. "I think immigrating to the U.S. is the beginning of experiencing the American dream. My dad became a citizen first, and so he set the bar. I know my dad is proud."

Waga, originally from Cagayan de Oro, Philippines, is first in his family to join the Air Force.

"I consider it a privilege to serve this country," said Waga. "It gives me a solid foundation, security for my family. I am speechless, honored and exited about earning U.S. citizenship."

"There are thousands of men and women in uniform, who were not born in the United States, yet they are willing to sacrifice everything for our country and they continue to make significant contributions," said Staff Sgt. Caleb Goebel, 27 SOCES. "Currently, only one percent of the U.S. population volunteers to serve; of that one percent, thirteen percent are non-citizens."

Peter Rechkemmer, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services officer, dispensed the oaths that granted the Air Commandos their naturalization. "U.S. military members who serve, active duty, for one year during war-time are eligible to apply for naturalization," said Rechkemmer, United Citizenship and Immigration Services officer. "U.S. citizenship is not automatic for those who have served, they still need to apply."

For Information about United States Citizenship and Immigration Services contact Rechkemmer at 505-452-9656 or send an email to abqmilnatz@uscis.dhs.gov.


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