CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan -- Twenty-three service members and active duty spouses, from 16 different countries, gathered at Camp Foster, Feb. 27, for a Naturalization Ceremony to become an admitted citizen of the United States of America.

The ceremony room was filled with family and friends to observe the final part of the overseas naturalization process.

“Today 23 people became U.S. citizens, fellow Americans,” said Brig. Gen. William J. Bowers, the commanding general of Marine Corps Installation Pacific. “This is something they were not born into, and they did not inherit it; they had to work for it and earn it by studying and learning about this country.”

The process incorporated a personal interview to include biographical and personal information, a three-part test in civics, reading and writing, and several other tests to be eligible for naturalization.

“I feel great, happy and so blessed,” said Joy Crill Gamboa-Go, a native from Luzon, Philippines, one of the 23 newly naturalized citizens. “I believe that being a U.S. citizen means having opportunities of freedom, liberties, and the pursuit of happiness.”

“The military gave us so much support and helped with the process,” she said. “I think this will be great for my whole family, and it will help make my dream as a medical assistant possible.”

The overseas naturalization process was open to active duty service members and military spouses stationed on orders.

“I had the ability to witness 23 people swear their allegiance to the United States, and that was a very powerful moment,” said Bowers. “I also got to see a little girl who drew a great big American flag on the back of her program; she put a lot of time into it, and it's just absolutely inspiring. I am honored to be here to witness this and be a part of it.”