Face of Defense: Sudanese Emigrants Become U.S. Citizens Together

• Two soldiers from Sudan unite in their service in Iraq.
• Both men recently became naturalized U.S. citizens in Baghdad.
• Army Spc. Marlesh Mbory’s journey is marked by significant loss.
• Army Spc. Magdi Ahmed faced discrimination and resolved for better opportunities.
• Both soldiers aspire to inspire fellow Sudanese immigrants.
• Their stories reflect hope, resilience, and a new beginning.

Soldiers from Sudan Find Common Ground in Service

Two soldiers, one born a Christian in the south of Sudan and the other a Muslim from the north, are making history together here in Iraq. Their camaraderie stands testament against the bitter two-decade civil war that ravaged their homeland of Sudan. Now, serving as interpreters for the U.S. Army, they recently shared a momentous milestone, becoming naturalized U.S. citizens during a ceremony on March 3 at the Al Faw Palace in Baghdad.

From Sudan’s Turmoil to New Beginnings

Army Spc. Marlesh Mbory, part of the 25th Infantry Division’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company, relished the experience, saying, “I love my job, and I love my new country. I’m grateful to be American.” His journey has not been easy; he moved to the U.S. in 2003 after a harrowing escape from Sudan where he faced loss and displacement. Living in Lincoln, Nebraska—a refuge for many Southern Sudanese—Mbory’s resolve to succeed comes from the memories of his family still in Sudan and the hope for a better future for his children.

A Shared Vision for a Brighter Future

Alongside him is Army Spc. Magdi Ahmed, who shares a similar story but with his own trials. Born in Saudi Arabia to Sudanese parents, Ahmed moved to the U.S. in pursuit of freedom and opportunity, seeking a life where justice is attainable. His past experiences, rife with discrimination and corruption, only fueled his determination to create a brighter future. He believes joining the Army allows him to take actions toward positive change where he once felt powerless. Both soldiers are now proud citizens forging a path of hope and resilience in their new country, with plans to encourage fellow Sudanese to join the military ranks.

The story of Army Spc. Marlesh Mbory and Spc. Magdi Ahmed is a powerful narrative of resilience in the face of adversity. Both soldiers have transcended the divisions of their past, becoming model citizens dedicated to serving their new homeland while holding onto memories and hopes for their families back in Sudan. Their experiences highlight the journeys that many immigrants take, illustrating the strength found in unity amid diversity as they aim towards a shared dream of peace and justice.