Travis to host naturalization celebration Published Oct. 17, 2012 By Jaye Hurt 60th Force Support Squadron Airman and Family Readiness Center TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- How many of us who were born in the United States have ever seriously thought about how fortunate we are? Because of our birthright, we are automatically granted rights and privileges that individuals from other countries yearn to have. "I sought my U.S. citizenship because my mother came to the U.S. seeking a better life for me," said Tech. Sgt. Joseph Bogdan, Airman and Family Readiness Center readiness NCO. "Long story short, growing up here, I was always an American at heart and wanted to serve my country to the fullest extent possible, that's why I joined the service. In order for me to serve my country to the degree that I wanted to and knew I could, I needed to be naturalized. Without my naturalization, I would not be where I am today: on my third term in the Air Force, loving what I do every single day of my life." His story is only one of the hundreds of naturalized citizens who are currently serving on active duty at Travis. To honor all naturalized citizens including active duty, family members and retirees, a naturalization celebration takes place at 10 a.m. Oct. 26 at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. Guests will have the opportunity to see a naturalization ceremony as members become United States citizens. AFRC staff members invites all naturalized citizens to attend as well for honors and recognition, no matter if they were naturalized last week or 20 years ago. To attend the event, sign up at www.travisafrc.com under USCIS Naturalization Celebration.