Rockland Welcomes 161 New Americans In Naturalization Ceremony

POMONA, NY — Rockland County welcomed 161 new Americans last week in a Naturalization Ceremony held at the Fire Training Center. The new citizens come from 43 different nations.

Numerous local officials attended the ceremony, which was organized by Rockland County Clerk Paul Piperato, who administered the Oath of Citizenship.

The keynote speaker was retired New York State Supreme Court Justice Victor J. Alfieri.New York State Supreme Court Justice Thomas Walsh presided over the naturalization.

Rockland County Executive Ed Day spoke during the ceremony about "the magic of becoming an American citizen. "I see the joy in your eyes as you choose to join this Democracy and make the United States of America your home," he said.

Officials in addition to County Executive Day congratulated the new citizens, including Rockland County Legislative Chairman Toney Earl, Legislator Aney Paul and State Senator David Carlucci.

Veterans organizations took part in the ceremony, including the Marine Corps League, Jewish War Veterans and Sons of the American Revolution.

Maureen Corallo sang the national anthem. Representative of organizations that promote organ donation attended, including Roxanne Watson of Nanuet.

Pictured: Judge Thomas Walsh, Paul Piperato, County Executive Ed Day, Judge Victor Alfieri, David Carlucci and Toney Earl/ Rockland County Executive's Office