"We are just asking for fair treatment," Celestino Almeda said.
Almeda is one of approximately 4,000 applicants for compensation who were not granted veteran status and are contesting that decision.
The path for recognition began years ago for Almeda, who fought for nearly six years to become a naturalized citizen via his veteran status. Almeda celebrated his 95th birthday this past June.
"Guess where I celebrated my birthday?" Almeda asked, chuckling. Along with other guests, Almeda attended a reception hosted by Secretary Hillary Clinton in honor of Filipino President Aquino. "I was one of the invited guests," Almeda said.
