USCIS Naturalizes 40 Military and Family Onboard USS Essex in Japan
June 8, 2009 – 11:38 am
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has naturalized 40 members of the military community onboard USS Essex stationed in Japan. The naturalization ceremony was conducted in the hangar bay of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship where normally sailors and Marines perform maintenance and prepare aircraft and other equipment for amphibious operations. The USCIS officials administered the Oath of Allegiance to 34 sailors, Marines, and Soldiers along with one child and five spouses of military service men and women stationed in Japan and the new citizens hailed from 17 nations. Addressing the new citizens after administering the Oath, USCIS Seoul, Korea Field Office Director, Kenneth Sherman said, ”your service in the United States military speaks volumes for your character and selfless service. On behalf of a very grateful nation, we are proud to welcome you as fellow American citizens.”
While delivering keynote address, the commander of the Essex, Navy Captain Brent Canady described the notable occasion as, “I am truly honored to be a part of this event today.” Adding further he said, “It is fitting that we should conduct this ceremony aboard a U.S. Navy ship and allow you to become citizens of the greatest country that ever formed on this piece of sovereign U.S. soil.”
For complete information, please click USCIS Naturalizes 40 Military and Family Onboard USS Essex in Japan
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