Indian gets US citizenship by joining Vermont Air National Guard

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Komalpreet Saini from India’s Punjab state says it feels “amazing” to become an American.

A youth from India’s Punjab state, who has become a US citizen by joining the Vermont Air National Guard, says “it feels good” and “amazing” to become an American.

“By joining the Vermont Air National Guard, I got citizenship and it feels good,” said Komalpreet Saini in a Facebook post by Vermont Air National Guard.

“Wearing this uniform and getting citizenship means a lot to me and my family,”  wrote Saini in the post dated Aug. 27,” he wrote. “It was a proud moment. I was from India, now I’m American. It’s amazing to be here and be a part of this family.”

“Join us in welcoming Airman 1st Class Komalpreet Saini, a personalist assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing who became a U.S. citizen this summer. Congratulations!” said the Guard post.

“Congrats to Airman 1st Class Komalpreet Saini on becoming a #NewUSCitizen last week,” tweeted the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). “Thank you for your service and dedication to our country!”

As many as 2,735 foreigners serving in the US armed forces had obtained American citizenship during FY ended Sep. 30, 2018, according to latest statistics. A break up based on country of origin is not available.

America not only permits non-citizens to join its armed forces, but also provides them a path to expedited citizenship.

A certificate of honorable service (Form N-426) is required by the USCIS from those applying for citizenship (naturalization) based on military service.

Recently US district court judge Ellen S Huvelle upheld the expedited process by ruling a new condition of ‘minimum service’ introduced by the Trump administration in Oct. 2017 as “unlawful.”

“According to immigration law, the Defense Department must provide the paperwork to service members who requested the needed citizenship certification so they can satisfy – one day of qualifying service,” she ruled.

The new conditions introduced in Oct. 2017 called for a minimum 180 consecutive days of active-duty service or at least one year of satisfactory service in the selected reserve, and passing of an extensive background check.