February 14, 2025~Naturalization Day

 "You can go to live in France, but you cannot become a Frenchman. You can go to live in Germany or Turkey or Japan, but you cannot become a German, a Turk, or a Japanese. But anyone, from any corner of the Earth, can come to live in America and become an American."~Ronald Reagan

A Valentines Day to be remembered❣️! Forty new citizens participated in the Naturalization Ceremony at the United States District Court Western District of Virginia. The Honorable Robert S. Ballou presided.

Special music (Star Spangled Banner,  and America The Beautiful), was performed by the Carilion Clinic Hospice Choir.

The presentation of applicants was read by Coleman Adams, Assistant U.S. Attorney, Western District of Virginia.

With their right hands raised, Elizabeth Cox, Jury Specialist, administered the 'Oath of Allegiance' to the new 40 United States Citizens. 

The courtroom was filled with friends, family, distinguished guests, teachers, and co-workers, cheering on the successful accomplishments of the applicants. *I'm always amazed at the different countries from whence they came:

For me, one of the many profound highlights of the ceremony was witnessing Judge Ballou present the certificates to the new citizens. 

Cards and American flags were given out by the General James Breckinridge Chapter DAR.

***The General James Breckinridge Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution has been an active part of the Naturalization Ceremony since 1979, including a reception following the ceremony. Today marks my 5th participation in this event. What an honor and privilege! 

The remarks to the new citizens, given by Judge Ballou were inspiring, bold, and challenging. Indeed, they felt proud, honored, and welcomed to their new community. His words left a lasting impression on everyone in the room, including ME!

As with each of the ceremonies, all new citizens were encouraged to stand and make their gratitude known. Their smiles were BIG, BROAD, AND SINCERE. 

These brave, determined, and resilient individuals sought a better life in this great nation. They are now part of a vibrant tapestry, woven from threads of diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences.

 

The ceremony concluded with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Anna McLean, Registrar, General Breckinridge Chapter DAR.

"I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

 

"Remember that the more freedom you give to others, the more you will have for yourself. Remember that without law there can be no liberty. and remember, as well, the rich treasures you brought from whence you came, and let us share your pride in them. This is the way that we keep our independence as exciting as the day it was declared."~Gerald Ford 

I am proud to be an American.

"E Pluribus Unum" is the Latin phrase meaning "out of many, one" and has been the United States' official motto since 1782. It first appeared in a 1776 sketch for the Great Seal and is now featured on the seal and several US coins. The motto symbolizes the country's formation from the 13 original colonies and the belief that the nation should work together as one.