Representatives Vargas and Polis Fight for DACA Individuals Eager to Join Military
Washington, DC (December 20, 2013) –Today, U.S. Representatives Juan Vargas (CA-51) and Jared Polis (CO-2) were joined by fellow Members of Congress in urging the Department of Defense to issue a memo allowing Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals (DACA) to enlist in all branches of the United States military. Currently, individuals who qualify for DACA are ineligible for service.
“By allowing DACA individuals to enlist, we not only ensure that all branches of our military remain fully staffed, but also give those who call the United States home an opportunity to defend their country,” said Congressman Vargas. “For many Deferred Action individuals, joining the military would be a way for them to give back to a country that has offered them wonderful opportunities and a bright future.”
With a shortage of eligible candidates enlisting, the military is facing severe recruiting issues, particularly in the reserves. DACA individuals, who have already undergone extensive background checks and finished high school or received a high school equivalent, make an ideal pool of vetted candidates.
“For many young people brought to the United States before adulthood, America is the only place they’ve known as home,” said Congressman Polis. “I hope the Department of Defense seizes this opportunity to enlist interested Deferred Action individuals in all branches of our military and allow them to help keep our nation, and their home, safe.”
“DACA individuals have spent the majority of their lives in the United States, many with no memory or tie to their country of origin,” said Congressman Vargas. “They view themselves as Americans, and as such, would be honored to serve their country and defend the land they call home.”
Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas is currently serving his first term in Congress. He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.