Filipino immigrant achieves dream through service in Air Force

Settles in Mid-Missouri, develops new focus

Air Force veteran Joy Pyles transported materials such as pipes for water lines to be used during the construction of water and sewer systems in Iraq.
Air Force veteran Joy Pyles transported materials such as pipes for water lines to be used during the construction of water and sewer systems in Iraq.

With the debate raging at the national level regarding immigration reform, the stories of those making a successful transition from their native lands to the U.S. often go unnoticed. But for one local Air Force veteran, the decision to leave the warm nest of her birthplace has led to the successful pursuit of long-held military and educational goals.

Born in 1977 at Iligan City, Philippines, Joy Romina Pyles recalls developing an interest in the U.S. military at an early age. In 1999, she emigrated to Mid-Missouri after marrying an American citizen and began the process for becoming a citizen.

On July 1, 2004, she was finally able to achieve citizenship through a process hastened for immigrants serving in the military and, just a few months later, received notice she would be deploying to Iraq.