Patriotic celebration

America's population grew Saturday as thousands of people nationwide became new U.S. citizens during naturalization ceremonies.

The day also marked the nation's 233rd anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Among the 23 people who participated in a naturalization ceremony at Harmony Hall were Theodore Lee of South Korea, Amit Rona of Nepal, Karen Dell of the United Kingdom and Gloria Villela of Honduras.

Harmony Hall was the site of North Carolina's capitol in Kinston from 1777 to 1781. During the 6th annual naturalization ceremony held at Harmony Hall on Saturday morning, much patriotic symbolism was displayed.

"Fifty-six signers signed the Declaration of Independence," Lenoir County Historical Association President Junius Rose said. "They pledged their lives for the sake of freedom."

Before the 23 applicants for citizenship raised their right hands to take their oath of allegiance, Lt. Col Chris Anthony of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Rep. Walter Jones, R- N.C., addressed the crowd gathered to witness the ceremony.

Both men emphasized the nation's diversity and how diversity would continue to make the nation stronger.

"It's a special day for our country and it's a special day for you," Jones said. "Thank you for respecting our laws and learning our constitution.

 "It's going to be a wonderful journey you are about to experience."

Anthony's family immigrated from Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom during the 1830s and 1920s. Anthony also congratulated the new U.S. citizens for their many accomplishments.

"We all have a common bond," Anthony said. "Our common bond is personal freedom and liberty."

Anthony also encouraged the new U.S. citizens to look at America with fresh perspectives.

"Honor the diversity that is America," Anthony said.

During the ceremony, Jerry Hannah of La Grange sang the national anthem and each new citizen was presented with a copy of the United States Constitution while a color guard from the U.S. Marine Corps Headquarters and Support Battalion from Camp Lejeune performed.

Chris Lavender can be reached at (252) 559 1078 or clavender@freedomenc.com.