US welcomes new citizens in Hammond on Independence Day

HAMMOND, Ind. (WLS) -- What better way to celebrate the nation's birthday than by becoming a U.S. citizen.

On Tuesday evening, 38 people took their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana.

Hammond's Port Authority hosted the annual naturalization ceremony at the Wolf Point Pavilion.

For these new citizens, patriotism is personal.

"My family is here and now I'm feeling so glad to be a part of this amazing country," said new U.S. citizen Brenda Molina.

"I was so nervous because I wanted to make sure everything was perfect and it came out perfect, what an incredible ceremony today," said new U.S. citizen Manuel Corazzari.

After the ceremony, there was an orchestra concert and, of course, a fireworks show.