Airman Mendoza becomes U.S. citizen Published Aug. 17, 2007 By Sheila Rupp Nucleus Staff KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico -- Wearing Air Force blue proudly for three years, an Airman in the 58th Operations Support Squadron took the next step in serving his country and became a citizen of the United States. Airman 1st Class Alex Mendoza took the oath of citizenship Aug. 3 and can now say he is a proud Airman and a proud citizen. Airman Mendoza was born in Honduras and has lived in the U.S. for most of his life, living on the east coast. Originally scheduled to take the oath of citizenship downtown, the ceremony was moved up because Airman Mendoza is preparing to deploy to Qatar. Airman Mendoza said he originally joined the Air Force to try something different and take advantage of the education and other experiences the Air Force could afford him. He is currently taking classes through the University of Phoenix, studying science and information technology. He's currently approximately six months away from graduation. He said he hopes to take extra classes to be able to finish before his deployment. Airman Mendoza said he will be separating the Air Force soon after his return from Qatar and is looking into joining the Air Force Reserves and then earning a commission as a second lieutenant. The oath of citizenship was administered by Lt. Col. Ron Medley, commander of the 58th OSS. "Taking the oath was such a great feeling and to be sworn in by my commander was really special. It was something I really wanted him to do," Airman Mendoza said. Airman Mendoza was surrounded by co-workers and friends for the momentous occasion. For more information about becoming a U.S. citizen, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Web site at www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis.