Non-US Citizens fighting for our freedom.  How amazing is that? Twenty seven U.S. soldiers serving our country on the front line of Afghanistan became the newest U.S. Citizens during a special Independence Day Military Naturalization Ceremony.  I saw it on the news and read it on-line. I got goosebumps and I cried.... tears of joy, of Pride...Patriotism....and a little shame.

I was born in Zama, Japan, I am lucky..... I was born on U.S. soil.  A United States Naval Base.  

I am one who cries in church or when I say the Pledge of Allegiance or sing the Star Spangled Banner.  To look at the flag I cry.   There is this strong sense of honor and pride that comes over me.  I feel blessed.  I didn't have to work hard at it, like so many, my U.S. Citizenship was handed to me. I was born in the right place and the right time so because of that I enjoy my Freedom and a Democracy.  

The truth is our father's and grandfather's placed us here!  It was their words and actions, their love and their fights that brought us to this great country at the perfect time giving us the best gift of all, an incredible life in the United States as American's.  I have to say, thank you for that!  

As I get older, I see things quite differently, what was important to me 5 years ago the thought of it makes me feel STUPID for what concerned me at the time.  Its not just about being American or a U.S. Citizens, it's about being humanitarian and have a genuine love for our fellow man.  The truth is we are a nation of immigrants!

I quote Army Maj. Gen. Benjamin Freakley, "We are a nation of immigrants,  Very few of us are actually indigenous to the United States of America. Since July of 2002, nearly 20,000 military personnel serving in the global war on terror have become U.S. citizens. As a nation that gives to others, we also like our citizens to be part of that ethic of giving to others. Clearly you are already demonstrating that by serving your nation in uniform. I wish you prosperity, health and happiness as Americans, and I hope that you will contribute to the nation, as you are already, throughout your entire life."

 

 

 

So I guess what I am trying to say is, regardless how you slice it, we are all human...doesn't matter where we come from or how we got here, while we are here let's make it count.  After-all we are celebrating our country's Independence. While we are with our families..make someone laugh today, since most are celebrating...kick back...and take it easy.

Make the most of this special day...... but most important remember the Twenty seven serving our country on the front line of Afghanistan became the newest U.S. Citizens during a special U.S. solders Independence Day Military Naturalization Ceremony. 

I have to ask my self, what took so long?  These people have been fighting for our country. I would think that placing your life on the line every single day might get through some red tape.  I guess I was wrong.  

Imagine how they must feel..Full of Pride..Joy.. and Patriotism.  For them a dream come true.  So today I will celebrate with them, for them and most of all honor them.  It's about them and you....Happy 4th of July to you and your loved ones!