Red Hill Hosts Patriotic Naturalization Ceremony with Descendants of Patrick Henry

On May 10, 2024, Red Hill, the historic final home of Patrick Henry, was the vibrant setting for a Naturalization Ceremony, marking a new chapter in the lives of 30 individuals as they became United States citizens. The combined color guard from Colonel James Wood II, Dan River, Patrick Henry, and Sgt Maj John Champe chapters of the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution enriched the ceremony.

The participants from the SAR, l. to r. Allan Phillips, Bill Schwetke, Doug Schwetke, Dwight Spangler, Gary Hall, Charles Driscoll, Pat Henry Jolly, Dale Corey, Chip Daniel, Mike Geisinger and Mark Sink

The event opened with a moving performance of patriotic songs by the Brookneal Elementary 5th-grade choir. Hope Marstin of the Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation and Patrick Henry Jolly, a direct descendant of Patrick Henry, warmly welcomed the attendees. Mr. Jolly provided insightful remarks on the historical aspects of immigration dating back to October 1783.

The Honorable Norman K. Moon, Senior United States District Judge, presided over the ceremony, administering the Oath of Citizenship. Judge Moon emphasized the responsibilities and obligations accompanying American citizenship, encouraging the new citizens to embrace their new roles fully.

Following the official proceedings, the new citizens shared their personal reflections and emotions on becoming Americans, highlighting their diverse journeys and common dreams.

Michael Madden, also from the Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation, gave a presentation on the influential role of Patrick Henry in the founding of the nation, connecting the historical significance of the venue with the day’s events.

The Color Guard is preparing to march. l. to r. Gary Hall, Bill Schwetke, Doug Schwetke, and Allan Phillips

The Honor Guard l. to r. Dale Corey, Dwight Spangler, Charles Driscoll, Mike Geisinger, Chip Daniel and Mark Sink.

The Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution provided a dignified presence with a color guard presentation led by Gary Hall of the Dan River Chapter. The Honor Guard, commanded by Dale Corey of the Col. James Wood II Chapter, proudly displayed the flags of the Sons of the American Revolution, marking the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution and the participating chapters.

The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the enduring values and ideals shaping the United States. The oath of citizenship, recited by the new Americans, underscores the commitment required to uphold the freedoms and duties as citizens of the United States:

“I hereby declare, an oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen; that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by law; that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces of the United States when required by law; that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by law; and that I take this obligation freely without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God.”

This memorable day at Red Hill not only celebrated the newest citizens of the United States but also paid homage to the rich historical legacy of one of its founding fathers, Patrick Henry.