Dozens take oath to become U.S. citizens in front of Yosemite's dazzling views
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK (KFSN) -- Dozens of the newest US citizens took the Oath of Allegiance with a breath-taking view. They celebrated a major milestone in their lives at Glacier Point in Yosemite.
One by one, their names echoed from the top of Glacier Point, and many have waited years for this moment. For Ventura Vigil, it was just as grand as the scenery.
"I live here for 30 years, and I never come to Yosemite," he said. "It's special, yeah, it's a special day."
The coat he's wearing is undeniably patriotic. It helped him stand out in the crowd of 49 people becoming U.S. citizens, but it represents so much more. It's the commitment two of his sons made to this country serving in the Marines.
One congratulated him over the phone, saying "Bien, bien, Mijo."
The other came in person. Edgar Vigil served in the Marines and says, "my brother is deployed right now in Africa, I was in the military for nine years, so I think this is just more of a symbolism for him to say, at 55, he was able to get his citizenship."
It's a sense of pride Adam Burns shares. He's of British descent and is excited to be able to have a voice in this country.
"This is an exciting time for our country, I think this is a young country and we're always figuring things out and I want to be part of that," he exclaimed.
Also in the crowd was Therese Williams. She grew up in Australia, moved to California and fell in love in Yosemite.
"This is home, this is now my place too," she said.
It truly is, and she lives there with her husband Paul and their first date happened in the shadow of Half Dome.
"Such a stunning backdrop here," Paul Williams said. "The natural beauty and wonder matches the moment here."
It's a moment they will hold close to their hearts, the day they chose to be American. Yosemite isn't the only place hosting ceremonies like this. There are 200 happening across the country. When it's all said and done, there will be 30,000 new U.S. citizens.
