GOSHEN – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus attended the County’s Naturalization ceremony on Wednesday, February 19th at the County’s Emergency Services Center.
County Clerk Annie Rabbitt administered the Oath of Allegiance to the new citizens and Orange County Supreme Court Justice Robert Onofry presided over the ceremony. Orange County Sheriff Carl E. DuBois also attended the event.
“I always enjoy being a part of the County’s naturalization ceremonies and I’m honored to have an opportunity to speak at this event,” Neuhaus said. “Recognizing the accomplishment of these new citizens and welcoming them to this great country is always an inspirational experience. It was my privilege and pleasure to share a few words of welcome with them today.”
Wednesday marked Onofry’s birthday and Rabbitt encouraged the audience to sing happy birthday to him. They obliged, serenading the gracious Judge, who even shared his age with the crowd when the song was finished. Judge Onofry quipped that it was his 21st birthday.
Ninety-nine people from 25 countries took the Oath of Allegiance, the final part of the naturalization process, renouncing all foreign allegiance while pledging to support and defend the American Constitution and to follow the laws of the United States. The County’s next naturalization ceremony will be held on Wednesday, April 8th.
“The Naturalization ceremony continues the promise made so many years ago that this nation will always be a beacon of hope for new citizens,” Rabbitt said. “It’s always gratifying to be a part of such an important moment in these citizens’ lives.”
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