In 1950, this is how I arrived in America. I was at a refugee camp in the Philippines in 1948, running from the socialists. I requested an American card. Two years later, I was accepted. I was 16 years older. In the tent, my mother and two sisters also applied. My acceptance came second. I had to take it then I may be placed last on the record.
Second, I had to have all the pictures for certain conditions. Next, before getting on the dispatch, I was examined by a physician from head to toe. Before getting off the fleet in San Francisco, I had to have another interview, which took three times.
Therefore the ship’s passengers were permitted to depart. My dream came true — I was in America.
We had just dream about the meals on board. It was a regiment ship, the USS Hershey. They had a sign that said,” Get all you want but eat what you take”, and we did.
My grandmother’s lung had a spot that was n’t related to smoking, so she could n’t pass her exam. That’s how rigorous it was up next. It’s been 74 times since I came to America. What a great nation and a wonderful people. Your goals can come true in this area.
GEORGE KOSTULKSY
Covington
