SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines — Eighteen sailors became US citizens after a naturalization right on the flight deck of the USS Essex that was in port at the Alava Pier of this premier Freeport on Monday.

The servicemen are crew members of the amphibious assault ship itself and a few crew members of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver that were taking part in the Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX).

Friends, families and co-workers of the naturalized crew members were on hand to witness the ceremony as the group took the US oath of allegiance.

Essex commanding officer Capt. David Fluker said that these new US citizens play an important role in helping provide for the defense of the United States.

“There is nothing inevitable about the path that brought us here,” said Fluker. “There is nothing inevitable about the future. The blessings that we enjoy are not merely a privilege, but a responsibility. We have to work at freedom and to defend it to keep our nation - and I would add also to keep others – safe and secure.”

According to US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr., the naturalization of the 18 crew members was a significant achievement for those who had given so much to the country.