From Airman to American: Langley Airmen granted citizenship

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jason J. Brown
  • 633d Air Base Wing Public Affairs
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. --  Airman 1st Class Ma Antonette Cabantog, 633d Force Support Squadron food services journeyman, enlisted in the Air Force in November 2008 in pursuit of a great career and a better life.

A motivated, goal-oriented Airman, Airman Cabantog established a to-do list to guarantee her success: finish career development courses on time, earn a senior airman below-the-zone promotion and volunteer in the community.

Most importantly, she desired to become part of the nation she defends; she set out to become an American.

On April 23, President Barack Obama granted her and 23 other servicemembers American citizenship at a ceremony at the White House.

Airman Cabantog, a native of Sariaya Quezon, Philippines, called the event "a surreal experience," recalling taking the oath of allegiance before the commander-in-chief and fellow servicemembers.

"I couldn't sleep the night before because of the excitement," she said. "I'd waited a long time for that moment."

Fellow 633d FSS members Master Sgt. Anita Drake and Airman 1st Class Michelle Johnson accompanied Airman Cabantog to Washington, D.C., to witness the historic event. Their company provided emotional support for Airman Cabantog, whose parents were unable to make the trip.

"My mom lives in the Philippines, and my stepdad, an Army staff sergeant, is serving at Fort Lee, Va.," she said. "I'm thankful my co-workers came with me to watch it happen."

Airman Cabantog said her citizenship will provide her more opportunities, including a security clearance, the ability to receive a passport and the option to re-enlist.

"I want to continue to serve, and citizenship is a requirement for reenlistment," she said. "Also, a passport will make it easier for me to visit my mother in the Philippines."

Airman Cabantog recommends any non-citizen Airmen earn their citizenship "as soon as possible."

"Do it as soon as you get in," she advised. "Anything can happen. It can open so many doors."

Airman Yu Yuan, 735th Supply Chain Management Group mission capability apprentice and native of China, also took the Oath of Allegiance, alongside Airman Cabantog and two other Airmen.

According to Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, more than 58,000 members of the Armed Forces have become American citizens since September 11, 2001.

"It was a once in a lifetime opportunity, Airman Cabantog said, smiling proudly. "I'll never forget it."