Four Winds Field welcomes 78 new U.S. citizens ahead of Independence Day

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- This Independence Day some will feel proud to be an American for the very first time.

A Naturalization Ceremony was held ahead of Wednesday’s South Bend Cubs Game welcoming 78 new US Citizens.

It was the first time Four Winds Field held the event.

Those 78 new citizens, each have a story to share from they own walk of life, coming from 28 countries all around the globe, but now they’re all American.

“We are on the eve of Independence Day. What’s more American than baseball, hotdogs, and new citizens,” said U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael G. Gotsch who presided over the ceremony.

“It’s just a big deal. Wanting to get everybody to be ahead. To give a better opportunity to better myself and my kids,” said Vanessa Miller getting emotional for the major milestone.

Grosch hopes this becomes a holiday tradition for years to come.

“First time here at Four Winds Field. Hopefully, this will be a regular event perhaps around Independence Day,” he added.

It was an Independence Day that many will never forget.