“We were born American citizens, these young men and women were not and the fact that they are choosing America to be a citizen in is truly inspirational,” said Lt. Gen. R. Steven Whitcomb, Commanding General, Third Army, U.S. Army Central Command.

In 2004, President George W. Bush signed into law that immigrants serving as of Sept. 11, 2001 can apply for American citizenship without waiting the usual three years and without having to be in country to apply.

“Regardless of the risk involved in serving in today’s army, I joined because being a naturalized citizen is very important to me,” said Mexican-born Pfc. Raul E. Madrid, 40th Quartermaster Company.

According to U.S. military statistics, since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, the number of immigrants serving who became citizens, skyrocketed from 750 in 2001 to approximately 4,500 last year. The largest group serving are Mexicans.

“At first my family didn’t want me joining the military. Now that I am a Naturalized American citizen, many doors have been opened,” said Madrid.

“I plan on becoming an officer and hope to fly helicopters for the army. Now my wife can focus on finishing her degree as well,” Madrid added.

During periods of hostilities, the following are some of the conditions service members must comply with in accordance with Section 329 of the immigration and naturalization regulation: good moral character, allegiance to the United States and its Constitution, knowledge of civics and English. Troops wanting to become naturalized American citizens should stop by their JAG office for information and assistance.

“Many Americans are born into freedom and do not realize how privileged they are,” Madrid said. “One day I will have children and grandchildren and I will never let them forget how lucky they are, and how I struggled to be able to vote and do things freely which makes us true Americans.”