PENSACOLA — Nicole Rewis stood tall, her right arm raised, as she pledged her allegiance to the United States of America.
The 36-year-old Destin woman was one of 122 people from 49 countries who became citizens of the United States on Thursday.
“It’s hard to not want to be a part of this country,” said Rewis, who was born in Canada. “There’s camaraderie, loyalty. You’re joining something bigger than you. People would give everything for this country.”
People throughout the Florida Panhandle traveled to Barrancas National Cemetery to swear allegiance in the final step of their citizenship. It was the first time the ceremony was held at the cemetery.
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“Today, America welcomes you, just as she has for 200 years to millions of Americans before you,” U.S. District Judge Casey Rodgers said. “With you comes a wonderful, cultural diversity. America does not want you to leave that culture behind. That culture is what has made our country as wonderful and unique as it is.”
Becoming a U.S. citizen can take from five months and two years. Those applying for citizenship are tested, interviewed and undergo extensive background checks before they can take the oath of citizenship.
Each person Thursday afternoon did just that.
One-by-one the newest citizens introduced themselves to the four presiding judges to say where they were born and how happy they were to become citizens.
“I’ve wanted this for three years,” Rewis said minutes before the ceremony. “I’m so glad it’s finally here. It’s nice to be a part of this family.”
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Angel McCurdy at 850-315-4432 or amccurdy@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @AngelMnwfdn.