SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio veterans gathered at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Saturday morning to honor and celebrate our nation's heroes. The day was especially memorable for nine soldiers in particular.
U.S. District Judge Fred Bier granted citizenship to each of the nine soldiers in a naturalization ceremony. The soldiers were originally born in Colombia, Mexico, Kenya, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Peru, the Philippines, and Jamaica.
"Even though you were not citizens of the United States, you have served our country, for which we extend our eternal gratitude," Judge Fred Bier said.
He then administered the Oath of Alliance.
Army Private First Class Sebastian Rojas, of Columbia, said he barely slept the night before.
"I was excited, it was a big day for me," Rojas said. "It feels great. I'm proud to be an American. Proud to serve this country. It's amazing."
Rojas said America is able to provide a sense of security that other countries could not, and he wanted to continue to protect America. He also hoped to inspire others to serve.
"I want to motivate other people, especially those from different countries, to enlist. It doesn't matter what branch. I just want to inspire and motivate them.
Army Private First Class Anika Powell was originally born in Jamaica. Powell said she was still processing how much it meant to become a citizen.
"It's an honor to be here, especially on Veterans Day, serving America. I'm just trying to take it all in," Powell said. "It was an honor to meet everyone else here that had served before me and hear what they went through. We are here to look up to them."
Keynote speaker Queta Rodriguez, a retired Captain in the Marine Corps, also recognized the new citizens.
"I have to mention how moved I am to see these young men and women here who are part of this naturalization ceremony. These individuals raised their hand and swore to support and defend the Constitution, even when they did not yet enjoy all of the freedoms that are guaranteed under the Constitution," Rodriguez said. "I want to congratulate you and thank you for your selfless service."
Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai and Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Director Gerald "Jerry" Lefler also addressed veterans at the celebration on Saturday. John Francis served as the Master of Ceremonies.
"Those who have put themselves in harm's way, so the rest of us can live comfortably, are the true heroes of our country. Their courage is what makes America the envy of all other nations," Sakai said. "Being here at this historic cemetery takes on even more meaning today. We hold, in high esteem, those who have passed and departed."