New Americans Naturalized in Iraq

(Baghdad) At the Faw Palace near Baghdad airport yesterday, a total of 75 U.S. Army soldiers and Marines, including seven women, recited the oath of citizenship and became naturalized American citizens. The new Americans came from 33 different countries from all points on the compass. Among the many, U.S. service members from Uganda, Jamaica, Ivory Coast, Vietnam, Zimbabwe, Bosnia, Uzbekistan and the Philippines were represented.

Congratulations!

About 25,000 U.S. service members have been naturalized since President Bush signed a 2002 Executive Order which accelerated the process. Yesterday's event was the seventh citizenship ceremony to be held in Iraq, naturalizing a total of 800 U.S. military members.

Think about it. People from around the world enter the U.S. military, with many placing themselves in harm's way, just for the opportunity to become Americans. Fortunately, it appears that proposed immigration and amnesty legislation will eliminate the need for military enlistment and citizenship will be attainable by purchase for a few thousand dollars.

Companion post at The Jawa Report.