Edwards Airman shares path to citizenship

  • Published
  • By Jet Fabara
  • 412th Test Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  For most of the nation, the Fourth of July is a time to celebrate, observe and reflect on the freedoms granted by our independence. For one Team Edwards Airman, this year's Fourth of July celebrations will have an even greater significance.

As of June 6, 2013, Senior Airman Samantha Couch, a career development journeyman with the 412th Force Support Squadron, was granted her citizenship.

"I joined the Air Force June 1, 2011, to travel the world, to better the life of my daughter, and to become part of something bigger than myself, but without my citizenship, it really limited my option to be able to re-enlist and continue serving," said Couch.

Originally born on German soil and raised as a U.S. Army military "brat" in Germany, Couch said that since most of her life was spent abroad, her citizenship was an oversight by her parents, so when the opportunity arose to serve as an active duty military member, she was excited to start her own military career.

"So far, I have learned in my career that teamwork is very important to complete the mission," Couch said. "Additionally, it is very important to constantly learn and be knowledgeable in order to keep up with changes."

Altogether, Couch said that her citizenship took approximately three months to be finalized and took her oath in Fresno, Calif.

"All I can advise for other members who are obtaining their citizenship is to ensure to bring loved ones, family members, or even friends with them when taking the oath and being naturalized," Couch added. "It is a special moment that should be shared and I am thankful that my director made it possible for me to be able to bring my daughter with me for this special occasion."

For those military members interested in learning more about obtaining citizenship, servicemembers can contact the Edwards Military Personnel Flight at (661) 277-2518 or research the Immigration and Nationality Act, section 328 or 8 U.S. Code, section 1439.