New U.S. Citizens sworn in at Mammoth Cave National Park

MAMMOTH CAVE, Ky. – Twenty-nine new citizens are celebrating after a naturalization ceremony Thursday at Mammoth Cave National Park.

Park officials say the ceremony took place at an area known as The Methodist Church while being overseen by United States District Court Magistrate Judge H. Brent Brennenstuhl.

“It was a distinct privilege to welcome our newest citizens to the United States in the remarkable setting of Mammoth Cave,” superintendent Barclay Trimble stated. “This unique underground environment not only highlights the beauty and richness of our nation but also reflects the collective heritage we all cherish.”

According to Mammoth Cave National park, the new citizens are from 12 different countries but now live throughout the western Kentucky region.

In order to become a new citizen, each person has to meet eligibility requirements and go through a 10-step naturalization process that includes written applications, tests and personal interviews. Officials say families of the new citizens accompanied them at the ceremony.

The naturalization ceremony is an annual event held at Mammoth Cave. The Hart County High School Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps presented the colors during the ceremony, and Mammoth Cave National Park Guide, Hillary Sward, preformed the National Anthem on trumpet for the audience.