LIBERTY ISLAND, N.Y. -- Lance Cpl. Tomas Roginski was one of a few Marines, sailors, airmen, Coast Guardsmen and soldiers to join a group of 125 immigrants in receiving their citizenship on Liberty Island, here, Oct. 28. The event was part of the day-long celebration of the 125th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty's dedication. The Department of Homeland Security rewards immigrants who join the military and serve honorably by exempting them from the normal residency requirements. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar told the new citizens, "You are represent what is best about America, because you represent what Americans should be celebrating and standing for around the world. We are a nation of diversity, and that diversity strengthens our country." Roginski immigrated to Brooklyn from Poland when he was a child. He currently serves in the Marine Corps with 6th Communication Battalion and is pursuing a degree in electrical engineering from the College of Staten Island. (Marine Corps production by Sgt. Randall. A. Clinton / RELEASED)

Photo by Sgt. Randall A. Clinton