Valley 'DREAMers' fight to serve in the military
Photographer: KNXV
Copyright 2013 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Posted: 01/24/2013
PHOENIX - DREAM Act supporters are hoping to see a change in policy with the Department of Defense that will allow some undocumented immigrants to serve in the military.
Cesar Valdez, of Phoenix, registered for the Selective Service even though he is undocumented and will not be allowed to serve.
"I am very patriotic," he said. "If you believe in something, and are willing to die for it, then that is what it all comes down to."
Valdez was qualified in the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals program that allows undocumented immigrants who meet certain criteria to be present legally in the country.
Valdez wants to be an interpreter and tells ABC15 that the military is a way for him to get an education.
"After years of people saying 'you don't belong' this is my duty," he said. "It is the responsibility of every American.
There is no word from the Department of Defense if a change in policy is under consideration.
Right now to join the military, you must be a legal citizen or be a permanent resident with a green card.
The military will not assist in the immigration process.
Copyright 2013 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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