In an event held on George Washington’s lawn at Mount Vernon, individuals from around the world gathered to become United States citizens on the nation’s 250th Independence Day. The ceremony took place in the presence of well-dressed attendees who cooled themselves with paddle fans adorned with American flags, while their families sought shelter in the shade.

Anne Neal Petri, regent of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, welcomed the attendees. A crowd of 150 individuals from 50 countries awaited their turn to be sworn in as U.S. citizens on this significant July Fourth.

Among them stood U.S. Marine Sgt. Diakaria Sangare from Guinea, dressed in a pressed Dress Blue uniform featuring three medals. His service included two deployments, and he had completed the extensive process of acquiring U.S. citizenship.

The event featured people from countries afflicted by violence and others who had escaped persecution. Following a speech focused on Washington, the crowd rose for the national anthem, and Marine Sgt. Sangare saluted solemnly while the anthem played.

As various countries’ names were called, individuals stood with pride, and at “Morocco,” a man celebrated by raising his fists in the air. The crowd then recited the Oath of Allegiance.

“Congratulations,” they were informed, “You just became U.S. citizens.”

Historian Douglas Bradburn encouraged the new citizens to embrace their American stories. He emphasized that George Washington, America’s founding father, now belonged to their history.

The first president appeared as a historical re-enactor, welcoming the new citizens and referring to them as fellow Americans.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Sangare, holding an American flag paddle fan, posed for a photo, proudly stating his new status as a U.S. citizen.