With the wave of recent deportations, a lot of talk centered around “illegals” and “dreamers.” However, there is another group that is being deported in surprisingly large numbers: veterans. On Memorial Day, in the city of Juarez in Mexico, a small group of six men gathered right at the point where people drive into the United States. They were there to honor the fallen soldiers with whom they fought, and who came before them. They wore black t-shirts that said “deported veteran.”
When a photo of the group was published and went viral, many wondered how anyone who fought for our country could be deported. The fact is, it has been happening for many years. While the Bush and Obama administrations made it easier for veterans to get green cards, recent Trump era regulations have made the waiting time longer. The army has also made it more difficult for immigrants to enlist, by turning them away altogether or making very long delays.
Many of these former soldiers have spent the vast majority of their lives in the United States. They came over as children with their parents, and vowed to serve their country when the need arose. Many now live in Juarez, which is just across the border from El Paso, Texas. In many cases, they have been separated from their own children and grandchildren who have remained in the States.
There is a split on whether these veteran deportations should continue. Many, such as former White House official Tony Fratto, think that “if you’re taking the oath of service, you’re taking the oath of citizenship.” Others say that the reason these veterans were deported, which in most cases are criminal charges, is why they cannot have citizenship. “An honorable discharge is not a free pass,” stated the Veterans of Foreign Wars group. Estimates show that approximately 3 percent of all veterans in the United States are foreign born.
Just because someone served honorably in our military, their status in the United States could very much be in jeopardy if they are charged with a crime. The best option is to seek legal representation immediately to protect their rights and to have their best chance at staying in the country that has been their home and that they swore to protect.
If your citizenship rights are in jeopardy, Gustad Law Group will work closely with you to get the results you need to maintain your way of life. Contact us online or call us at 206-533-2222.