By: Las Vegas Now Staff
A first for the state of Nevada on Tuesday — 36 service men and women were sworn in as American citizens in a special first all military swearing-in ceremony at Nellis Air Force Base.
There are more than 40,000 immigrants serving in the United States armed forces, including some who serve at Nellis Air Force Base. Tuesday, Eyewitness News talked to a United States Marine who is now an American citizen — a dream that almost didn't happen.
The National Anthem is now a song the men and women representing the different branches of the U.S. armed forces can now call their own. Among those being cheered on their path to U.S. citizenship was Corporal Marine Ruben D'Silva.
“I've been living here since I was a baby. All I know is America. Becoming a U.S. citizen was the final blow – I'm a full-fledged American,” he said.
Originally from Bombay India, this 22-year-old is one of thousands who wore an American uniform with pride even before becoming a U.S. citizen. But he almost didn't make it there Tuesday.
“I got shot up in Fallujah, Iraq and they medevaced me pretty quick. It's an experience I'll take to the grave with me,” he said.
Wearing a Purple Heart medal, D'Silva shared the challenges he now faces because of being injured in combat.
“I can move my fingers and stuff, but I can't turn my hand up anymore. Hopefully, therapy will teach me how to live like this.”
Barely able to hold his naturalization certificate with one hand, his smile is never ending. He is quick to share what he looks forward to most as an American citizen.
“I'm going to vote in the next election, that's for sure. I'm really looking forward to that, like those fingers in Iraq with ink and their chance to vote. This is finally my chance to vote.
Email your comments to Reporter Chris Saldana.
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