The guest opinion column of Ruth Perez, “Mexican by birth, American by choice, and proud to live in my community” (Auburn Reporter, April 7) was well written. She presented herself well, and I agree with most of what she said.

I am also an immigrant. I was born and raised in Manila, Philippines. I came to this country when I joined the U.S. Navy in the Philippines in 1960. Six years later, while still in the Navy, I became a U.S. citizen and proudly continued my Naval service until my retirement. Yes, I served my adopted country with honor.

Ms. Perez said, “I believe and stand for values of inclusion, equity and justice” Yes, so do I.

She added, “It is important to respect all people and recognize the rights of individuals to live their lives with dignity, free of discrimination because of their faith, race, national origin … or immigration status.”

Say what? May I beg to differ on that last part? To me, there are two kinds of immigrants: the legals and the illegals. Under federal law, any non-U.S. citizen is an alien. And aliens who have entered the United States without permission, or who have violated the terms of their admission, are identified under the law as illegals.

Illegal immigrants must obey our laws or get out of America. If not, expect deportation. Yes, may I say? Deport all illegal aliens. Let’s keep America safe.

– Jesse Jose