New U.S. citizens to be sworn in Saturday

Singing the National Anthem and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance will take on new meaning for 26 individuals who will be sworn in as United States citizens Saturday.

"Candidates from all over the world will receive their citizenship here in Kinston on Independence Day," Pride of Kinston Executive Director Adrian King said.

Immigrating from the United Kingdom, Jordan, Nigeria, India, Pakistan, Russia, Korea, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, Zambia, Ecuador, Spain, Nepal, Colombia, Hong Kong and Honduras, the candidates have been evaluated and approved for citizenship by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Naturalization Division.

Harmony Hall, the historic museum that played a role in the North Carolina's crusade to be free of British rule, will play host to the annual Independence Day naturalization ceremony.

"Given the historical setting, the Kinston program is patterned after the famed naturalization and granting of citizenship in the U.S. ceremony conducted each July Fourth on the step of Monticello, home of Thomas Jefferson," King said.

The ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. and will feature a welcome by Congressman Walter B. Jones (R-N.C.) and an address by Lt. Col. Christopher Anthony, director of operations for the 335th Fighter Squadron at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.

Jones has attended every naturalization ceremony held at Harmony Hall and said the experience symbolizes what July Fourth represents - freedom.

"For me it's always a thrill and a humbling experience to be there," Jones said. "To look in the faces of these people and just to think how much they want to be an American citizen."

Judge Earl Britt will lead the candidates in the Oath of Allegiance, which will be followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Boy Scout Justin Shimer of Troop 63.

Lisa Whitfield, representing the Daughters of the American Revolution; Sarah Ellen Archie, representing the National Society of Colonial Dames of America; and Bryan C. Hanks, the managing editor of The Free Press, will present pins, flags and copies of the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence to the new citizens.

"The ceremony is a very moving event," King said. "Candidates for citizenship bring members of their families to the ceremony, which is followed by a reception."

Jones said he feels privileged to be invited to the event, knowing that the candidates immigrated to this county legally and followed the laws of the land.

"I can share my heart with them, my heart humbled and filled with gratitude that these people want to uphold the constitution of America," he said. "I look forward to welcoming my fellow Americans."

Sarah Campbell can be reached at (252) 559-1076 or scampbell@freedomenc.com.

Naturalization process
The general requirements for administrative naturalization include:
-a period of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States
-an ability to read, write and speak English
-a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government
-good moral character
-attachment to principles of the U.S. Constitution
-favorable disposition toward the United States
Source: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services