Photo courtesy of Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park, renowned for its natural wonders, served as a unique backdrop for a momentous occasion as twenty-nine individuals took their oath of allegiance and officially became citizens of the United States.
Molly Schroer, public relations officer with the cave spoke to WCLU about the ceremony.
The naturalization ceremony, held on Thursday, April 25, unfolded within the historic confines of Mammoth Cave, specifically at a site known as “The Methodist Church,” presided over by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge H. Brent Brennenstuhl.
In a statement resonating with the spirit of inclusivity, park Superintendent Barclay Trimble remarked, “Our national parks belong to all Americans. They celebrate a multitude of stories and cultures of individuals and events that shaped our nation and our society. We couldn’t think of a better way to honor and welcome our newest U.S. citizens than by hosting this memorable event inside Mammoth Cave during National Park Week.”
Speaking on how important these ceremonies are to the cave, Schroer mirrored Trimble’s message.
The new citizens represent a diverse tapestry of backgrounds, originating from 12 different countries across the globe. Achieving citizenship is a voluntary journey, requiring individuals to navigate a rigorous ten-step naturalization process, encompassing written applications, tests, and personal interviews. Accompanied by their families, who stood as pillars of support throughout their citizenship quest, the new citizens embarked on this transformative milestone.
An annual tradition within Mammoth Cave, the naturalization ceremony resonates with the park’s ethos of embracing diversity and fostering unity.
The solemnity of the occasion was heightened as the Barren County High School Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) presented the colors, followed by Mammoth Cave National Park Guide Hillary Sward, who delivered a stirring rendition of the National Anthem on trumpet, marking the commencement of the ceremony.
As the echoes of patriotism reverberated through the cavernous expanse of Mammoth Cave, the induction of these new citizens served as a poignant reminder of the enduring values and principles that bind individuals from all walks of life into the rich tapestry of the American experience.