In brief
Sae Joon Park, a U.S. Army veteran, faces deportation risks after years of residing in the U.S. After serving honorably and battling personal issues, he chose to self-deport when confronted with a removal order. His experience reflects a larger trend among immigrant veterans, who may soon be subjected to harsher immigration policies under the Trump administration. Veterans' advocates highlight the implications this has on military recruitment and national security, calling for legislative measures to protect immigrant service members.
PHOENIX (AP) — As the 2024 presidential election approaches, immigrant veterans like U.S. Army veteran Sae Joon Park are facing potential deportation amidst changes in immigration policies. Park, who moved to the U.S. from South Korea at the age of 7, joined the military at 19 and received a Purple Heart in Panama. After overcoming multiple challenges, including PTSD and addiction, he was granted deferred action against deportation due to his veteran status.
However, during a routine check-in with immigration officials, Park discovered he had a removal order against him. Rather than risking prolonged detention, he decided to self-deport to South Korea, a country he had not seen in 30 years. They allowed me to join, serve the country – front line, taking bullets for this country. That should mean something, Park expressed, emphasizing the unfair treatment of veterans facing deportation.
During Trump's presidency, strict immigration policies targeted immigrant service members, complicating the path to citizenship for veterans. Current military experts warn that these efforts jeopardize national security by discouraging enlistment among noncitizens. Although the Biden administration attempted a different approach by recognizing military service in immigration enforcement, recent policy changes have reinstated potential deportation risks.
Military advocates and lawmakers are now pushing for reforms to protect immigrant veterans, arguing that those who have served America should not face the threat of removal from their communities. Various federal proposals are underway to provide legal protections for immigrant service members and their families, showcasing a national reckoning over the treatment of those who have fought for the U.S.
Amidst these ongoing issues, Park feels disconnected and uncertain about his future, noting, This is not the country that I volunteered and fought for, reflecting the sentiments shared by many immigrant veterans grappling with similar threats.
