Becoming a citizen: Dreams can come true

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Joseph Kapinos
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  American citizenship is often something that is overlooked and taken for granted by most people, but for three Warriors of the North, it's something they have been dreaming about for years.

Finally, that dream has come true.

Each airman had their own reason for beginning this journey for citizenship, but for Airman 1st Class Michael Montenegro, a supply troop with the 319th Logistics Readiness Squadron, that dream began as he walked the city streets of Cali in the country of Columbia.

"I had come to the United States and lived in Miami when I was a child. That is where I went to high school, as well as college," said Airman Montenegro. "But, I knew that I wouldn't have all of the opportunities that I could have without that citizenship."

Having already received the proper paperwork, or "green card," to be in the country legally, he knew it would still be a number of years before his citizenship would be granted.

"Joining the military gave me not only the chance to serve the country I love, but it also sped up the process of becoming a true citizen," said Airman Montenegro. "Plus, the military is helping me complete my degree. I have only three more semesters to go."

"Then I will have my criminal justice degree and can serve my country in new ways, such as an agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigation or some other federal law enforcement job," he added.

Completing the process of becoming a citizen was no easy task for the three airmen. After piles of paperwork, each candidate must undergo a rigorous background check as well an interview to determine their true intentions of becoming a citizen. They all had to study a hundred question test covering topics from American history to government to civics. Airman Montenegro's dedication to his goal saw him through all these years of waiting as well as the tests and interviews, culminating in his standing next to his fellow Airman while a judge stood before them, administering the oath.

It was the end of one journey, but the beginning of another for Airman Montenegro.

"I am so excited that this has happened for me, I feel so much more confident in my abilities now that I am a citizen," said Airman Montenegro.

"This country has so many opportunities for people to make their dreams come true," he added.

Editor's note:
This is the first part of a three-part series detailing three airmen becoming American citizens.