April 30, 2009
Four U.S. service members become American citizens during Balikatan 2009
Story by Lance Cpl. Cristina N. Gil
Three U.S. Navy Sailors and one U.S. Marine officially became American citizens in a naturalization ceremony at the U.S. Embassy here April 27.
The four have been in the Republic of the Philippines for Balikatan 2009, an annual humanitarian-assistance and training exercise which allows the Philippine and U.S. militaries and Philippine civil-defense personnel to learn from one another while helping local communities through medical, dental and civil-engineering projects.
The ceremony was the first of its kind to take place in the Philippines.
U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie A. Kenney said the U.S. has gained four new citizens who answered the call to duty even before their naturalization.
“Being an American citizen means more than love of country,” said Kenney. “It means being a good citizen, a voter, respectful of laws and rules and being willing to stand up for our country, just as these four gentlemen are now doing.”
Though they have sworn to be loyal to the U.S., it does not mean abandoning their roots, said Kenney. The cultures they bring with them add to a heritage that makes the United States unique.
“Being an American citizen does not mean losing our roots. We are a nation of people who trace our heritage to other nations,” said Kenney. “As the four of you take the oath of citizenship, I am proud you’ve chosen the United States to be your home. I hope you will never forget the culture, heritage and riches of your countries of birth.”
Hospitalman Jin Lin, a hospital corpsman, said he felt brand-new and accomplished after giving up his Chinese citizenship to become a U.S. citizen. Lance Cpl. Jose Rodriguez Peralta, a combat engineer, said he also felt a high sense of pride and accomplishment. He was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, and moved to Dallas, Texas, as a child. Now, after fulfilling his dream of becoming a U.S. Marine, he is proud to be a citizen of the country he defends.
“I have always wanted to do my part and serve. I felt like I was needed, so I joined,” said Rodriguez Peralta. “It feels great to be a citizen.”
The ceremony’s location was especially symbolic for two of the new U.S. citizens. Hospitalman Mario Vinoya, a dental technician, and Hospitalman Renny Vitug, a combat corpsman, are Philippine natives. They said the opportunity to become U.S. citizens on their native soil added to the rush of emotions they felt.
“I feel special that I was part of the first ceremony here. It’s kind of overwhelming and people we didn’t even know were here and happy for us. It’s awesome,” said Vitug, who now calls Long Beach, Calif., home.
Vinoya, who will celebrate his 23rd birthday on May 5, said this is the best birthday gift he has received. He moved to Anchorage, Alaska when he was 17 and in his search for a career path, he joined the U.S. Navy. So far, that decision has enabled him to visit places he never imagined and brought him back to the Philippines for Balikatan.
“This is still my homeland and my heart still belongs here. I still have Filipino blood running through me,” said Vinoya. “This has been one of my dreams and one of the reasons I joined the U.S. Navy. I think there is a lot I can offer the U.S. I have more pride in serving now and I know my family is proud. Dreams do come true!”
###
