Nearly every September since 2012, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum has hosted an annual naturalization ceremony on the East Lawn of the Library in recognition of Constitution Day. This year, the event drew 56 candidates from 24 countries, from Benin to Vietnam. The Hoover Presidential Foundation and Herbert Hoover National Historic Site also contributed to making this important event possible.

Fortunately, it was a sunny day on the Hoover Campus. Candidates accompanied by supportive family and friends descended on the grounds. Aside from candidates, guests, and representatives of the Hoover Campus, American Legion Post 514 presented the colors and handed out poppies to the new citizens, Daughters of the American Revolution was there to promote patriotism, League of Women Voters registered the new citizens to vote, and Extension Chords provided a cappella music to give an added flair of Americana.

After a warm welcome by Tom Schwartz, Director of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, on behalf of the Hoover Campus, the Honorable Mark A. Roberts, Magistrate Judge of the United States District Court of the Northern District of Iowa, greeted the gathered crowd upon opening the court. A roll call was taken by country of origin before the Oath of Allegiance. Representatives for Senators Grassley and Ernst spoke, and the Extension Chords provided patriotic music throughout the ceremony.

“I’m amazed about the… all my friends who came here to come celebrate. E Pluribus Unum!” -Thomas (center), Germany

After the Oath was taken and the candidates were welcomed as citizens, the crowd erupted in applause. There was a sea of surrounding cellphones to capture the special moment. You couldn’t help but be drawn into the emotion of it all, especially when it was immediately followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

New citizen with certificate of naturalization

It was all smiles from that point, as each new citizen filed in line to grab their certificate of naturalization, the official proof of US citizenship for foreign-born individuals. Family and friends celebrated, pictures were taken, and greetings were passed among those in attendance. It was a big day after a long process.

This annual event is free and open to the public, so if you are available next year during that time, we encourage you to make the trip to West Branch to see this inspiring, celebratory event for people yearning to call themselves American.

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