Pfc. Alberto Obod Jr.

On April 22, 2011, PFC. Alberto Obod Jr., 26, became an American citizen.

On Sunday, August 28, 2011, Pfc. Obod died in Afghanistan, when the vehicle in which he was traveling rolled over.

Pfc. Obod initially worked in a hotel after arriving in the U.S., sending whatever money he could back to his wife and child in the Phillipines. Inspired by a younger brother joining the Navy and becoming a citizen, Alberto joined the Army.

Obod was assigned to the 391st Combat Sustainment Support Battalion of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command's 16th Sustainment Brigade, based in Bamberg, Germany.

The photo, above, shows Alberto's smile as he received his certificate of citizenship. "That was a very proud day for him and for us," Obod's stepfather, John Restino said. He added that Obod hoped citizenship would enable him to eventually bring his wife and child to America.

Thank you, Pfc. Obod, for your service and your sacrifice.