To become a U.S. citizen posthumously, too.
Army Pvt. Damian Lopez Rodriguez, Tucson, Ariz. The Department of Defense announced today the death of three sailors who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died April 6 from enemy action while conducting combat operations near Kirkuk, Iraq.
"Pueblo Grad Killed In Iraq Is Awarded Citizenship"
Pfc. Damian Lopez Rodriguez was posthumously awarded U.S. citizenship Thursday, according to a U.S. Army news release.
Lopez Rodriguez was one of three soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division who were killed April 6 when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq. He was 19.
Lopez Rodriguez was born in Mexico and enlisted in the Army Sept. 14, 2005, the news release said.
The U.S. government historically has granted posthumous citizenship to non-U.S. citizen service members killed in the line of duty during wartime.
Under provisions in the 2004 National Defense Authorization Act, the citizenship is no longer simply honorary. It now includes benefits to the deceased service member's spouse, children and parents who hope to gain U.S. citizenship.
"Pfc. Lopez Rodriguez was a dedicated, honorable soldier who served this nation well," said Maj. Gen. Barbara G. Fast, commanding general of the U.S. Army Intelligence Center and Fort Huachuca, in the news release. "Awarding him U.S. citizenship honors the sacrifice he and his family have made for our country."
And I add, AMEN. May light perpetual shine upon Damian....
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