Departure was motivated by immigration policy implemented during the Trump government, which directly affected its situation
Sae Joon Park, an army veteran, decided to return to after almost five decades living in the US with a Green Card. His departure was motivated by immigration policy implemented during the Trump administration, which directly affected its situation. Park, who received decorations for his military service, faced challenges related to chemical dependence, the result of posttraumatic disorder. In 2009, Park was arrested for attempted drug purchase, an incident that negatively impacted his search for American citizenship. The notification of the US Immigration and Customs Service (ICE) about his deportation was the decisive point that led him to make the difficult decision to leave the country. He said goodbye to his children and his mother, who is 85, before returning to his homeland.
The Trump government justified Park’s deportation based on its previous convictions, claiming that he had no legal grounds to continue residing in the United States. Despite his gratitude for serving in the Armed Forces, Park considered the way Ice was treated as unfair. Its history highlights the complexities faced by immigrants and veterans who are in vulnerable situations. Park’s experience illustrates the challenges that many veterans face, especially those who deal with mental health and dependence problems. The deportation of individuals who dedicated their lives to military service raises questions about the immigration policy and the treatment of former military in the United States.
Posted by Sarah Paula
*Report produced with the aid of AI
