SAN DIEGO — Dozens of military service members in San Diego celebrated Independence Day this year by becoming U.S. citizens.
The ceremony at the USS Midway Museum was organized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court, Southern District of California. Similar naturalization ceremonies took place at landmarks across the country to celebrate the Fourth of July.
In San Diego, local leaders helped 35 new U.S. citizens — from more than a dozen home countries — mark the occasion. The navy, army and marines were represented.
Chief District Judge Dana M. Sabraw administered the Oath of Allegiance. Rep. Sara Jacobs and Rep. Juan Vargas shared congratulatory remarks, and USS Midway Director of Marketing David Koontz welcomed the new citizens.
In addition, the U.S. Navy Band Southwest and the Naval Base San Diego Color Guard performed.
According to USCIS, "Historic venues not only make these events meaningful for those who have voluntarily chosen to participate in American democracy and dedicated themselves to the country's future, but they also reflect the strength and spirit of the United States."
The USS Midway, named after the Battle of Midway in June 1942, was the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century.
WATCH RELATED: Memorial Day 2024 at the USS Midway Museum (May 27, 2024)
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET CBS 8:
ADD THE CBS8+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE Roku | Amazon Fire