Adios Amigo: Thanks for Serving (Our) Country

The issue of the treatment of undocumented immigrants who served in the U.S. military has been around for many wars.  It has been a recurring issue as the war on Iraq has continued.  A recent naturalization case from New York suggests that this country has not always been overly generous to our undocumented veterans.  In that case, the court stated:

"Although Singh admits that he is an undocumented alien, he nonetheless has an extensive history in the United States Armed Forces. [1993-2001.] Singh was stationed in Kosovo and served as a licensed practical nurse with the rank of sergeant. ... As much as this Court might like to reward Singh for his years of distinguished service to this country, this Court cannot extend the scope of INA § 329 and Executive Order 13,119 beyond the limits set by Congress and the President. ... Accordingly, Singh's application for naturalization is denied, and this action is dismissed."

Singh v. Gantner, E.D.N.Y., Aug. 15, 2007.  Click here for the full decision.

KJ