Pentagon holds naturalization ceremony

WASHINGTON, April 15 (UPI) -- Twenty-two immigrants serving in the U.S. armed forces became U.S. citizens in a special ceremony at the Pentagon.

They were among the thousands of non-citizens who have enlisted since the terrorist attacks of 2001, the Los Angeles Times reported. Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England presided over the ceremony Monday.

"We are indeed a greater country, stronger country, a better country today because of you," said Air Force Maj. Gen. James W. Graves, whose wife is a naturalized citizen.

Ensign Olufolahannmi Ayoola Omatayo Coker, a Nigerian immigrant serving in the Navy Reserve, said he can now show his sons that he is a citizen like them. He also hopes to become a police officer.

"This is a bridge over the river," he said.

Military service has long been a route to citizenship. President George Bush signed an executive order expediting the process after the terrorist attacks.

Oneida Bastidas watched proudly as her son, Marine Lance Cpl. Luis Bastidas, became a citizen.

"I worked 20 years in this country," she said. "This is my accomplishment."