New United States citizens sworn in at Mammoth Cave National Park

News Release Date:
April 25, 2024

Contact:Molly Schroer, 270-758-2192

MAMMOTH CAVE, Ky. - Mammoth Cave National Park and United States Citizen and Immigration Services welcomed twenty-nine new citizens of the United States during a naturalization ceremony held inside Mammoth Cave on Thursday, April 25. The ceremony took place at an area known as "The Methodist Church," and was overseen by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge, H. Brent Brennenstuhl.

"Our national parks belong to all Americans," said park Superintendent Barclay Trimble. "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."

The new citizens hail from 12 different countries around the world. Becoming a new citizen is a voluntary process which requires each individual to meet eligibility requirements and go through a ten-step naturalization process that includes written applications, tests, and personal interviews. The new citizens were accompanied to the ceremony by members of their families who supported them through their citizenship journey.

The naturalization ceremony is an annual event held within Mammoth Cave. The Barren County High School Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) presented the colors, and Mammoth Cave National Park Guide, Hillary Sward, preformed the National Anthem on trumpet to kick off the ceremony.

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