WASHINGTON – Veterans Affairs Secretary Anthony J. Principi took part in a special ceremony today making Army Specialist Hilario Bermanis of the 82nd Airborne Division a U.S. citizen.
“This young soldier serves as a true example of sacrifice to a nation that today he can call his own,’ Principi said. “He gave of himself so that others could have a better tomorrow. The Department of Veterans Affairs will be there for Specialist Bermanis and thousands of other brave men and women returning home from harm’s way.”
Bermanis lost both legs and his left hand during an attack on June 10 in Baghdad while he and a fellow soldier, who was killed instantly, were guarding a weapons turn-in point. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his conduct in action and a Purple Heart for his injuries.
A citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia, Bermanis enlisted in the Army three years ago. Today, his parents and five-year-old brother witnessed the oath ceremony at Walter Reed Army Medical Center along with Secretary Principi; Secretary Tom Ridge of the Department of Homeland Security; and Peter M. Christian, speaker of the Micronesian Congress. Maj. Gen. Kevin C. Kiley, Walter Reed commander, also attended.
On July 3, 2002, President Bush issued Executive Order 13269 providing naturalization for aliens and non-citizen nationals serving on active duty in the U.S. armed forces during Operation Enduring Freedom, from September 11, 2001, to a date not yet determined.
September 17 was designated Citizenship Day in 1952 by President Harry Truman. The anniversary was established to focus on the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens, both native-born and naturalized.
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