Aimal Taraki, a former Afghan interpreter, knew he wanted to join the Marine Corps after arriving in the United States, but had to act quickly before becoming too old to enlist.

“In my heart, I kind of felt obligated that I have to serve in the Marine Corps,” Taraki said in an interview. “In this way, I can say thank you to the United States and the Marine Corps for helping me out in Afghanistan.”

Taraki had served with Marines in Kabul before securing a visa that allowed him to come to California and join the rest of his family. Based on his experiences in Afghanistan, Taraki felt an obligation to join the Marine Corps.