For the first time in history, Fire Island National Seashore played host to a naturalization ceremony held on Sept. 11, marking a dual commemoration of the Seashore’s 60th anniversary and the solemn remembrance of the Sept. 11 attacks.

The ceremony, which took place at the iconic Fire Island Lighthouse, commemorated both the Seashore’s 60th anniversary and the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, providing a unique and meaningful setting for seventy candidates from 29 countries to take the oath of U.S. citizenship.

Presiding over the ceremony was Second Circuit Judge Joseph Bianco, who delivered a keynote address highlighting the significance of the day. 

“It is such an inspirational moment, especially on this day of remembrance, to witness this final step in the path to citizenship as immigrants from across Long Island fulfill their dream of becoming citizens of this great nation,” Judge Bianco said. 

He underscored the connection between the ceremony and the sacrifices made by many on Sept. 11, 2001, noting how appropriate it was that these new citizens were joining the nation on such a day of reflection and unity.

“It is particularly fitting that these immigrants become Americans on a day on which we commemorate how many of our fellow citizens, who loved this Nation and the values we stand for, sacrificed their lives in the service of others on Sept. 11,” the judge added. “I am deeply honored to be a part of this special ceremony with my fellow judges.”

The event was attended by 15 judges from the Eastern District of New York, as well as Alexcy Romero, the Superintendent of Fire Island National Seashore. 

Local communities played a role in the event, with performances by the Patchogue-Medford High School Choir and students from Woodhull Elementary School. Representatives from six local fire departments — including Ocean Beach, Fair Harbor, and Saltaire Fire Departments — also participated.

The naturalization process, overseen by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), provided the final step for these new citizens, who had cleared many legal and procedural hurdles to reach this moment. 

The naturalization ceremony at Fire Island was part of a larger series of events marking the Seashore’s anniversary, which has long served as a symbol of both natural beauty and American heritage. The judges of the Eastern District expressed their hope that the ceremony, held in such a meaningful location and on such a significant date, would serve as a lasting reminder of the ideals that unite the country and the responsibilities that come with citizenship.