The Washington State Guard (State Defense Force)) boasts a prestigious Honor Guard, a select group of soldiers entrusted with the important duty of protecting and presenting both the state and national flags. This group holds a position of high esteem within the organization, representing the colors at numerous public events throughout the state. With the mission to uphold and carry forward the tradition of representing the nation and state with pride, the Honor Guard contributes significantly to the vibrancy of these occasions, delivering a visual and symbolic spectacle that highlights the significance of these emblems to all attendees.
One of the more notable instances in which the Washington State Guard (WSG) Honor Guard has participated is the 38th Annual Naturalization Ceremony, held at Seattle Center on July 4th. In front of an audience of 5000 spectators, including Washington Governor Jay Inslee, the Honor Guard posted the colors, adding to the gravity of the occasion. Over 500 individuals were sworn in as new citizens of the United States during this event, with the Honor Guard’s presence underscoring the profound significance of this moment in their lives. As the WSG Honor Guard continues to seek individuals interested in upholding this noble tradition, their contributions to special events like these will undoubtedly persist, leaving lasting impressions on those who witness their respectful representation of our flags.
The Washington State Guard has an Honor Guard, a detachment of soldiers assigned to the protection and presentation of our state and national flags. This duty is highly prestigious. Our Color Guard “Posts the Colors” at many events around the state.
On July 4th the WSG Honor Guard participated in the 38th Annual Naturalization Ceremony at Seattle Center, where over 500 people were sworn in as new citizens of the United States of America, in front of 5000 spectators to include Washington Governor Jay Inslee. The WSG Honor Guard is looking for people interested in carrying on this tradition. Contact CPT George Wheeler at george.wheeler@mil.wa.gov for more information.
38th Annual Naturalization Ceremony at Seattle Center Celebrates Diversity, Freedom and Citizenship | Jul 4
WHAT: 38th Annual Naturalization Ceremony at Seattle Center
WHEN: Tuesday, July 4: 11:30 a.m. concert by Navy Band Northwest; 12-1 p.m. ceremony
WHERE: Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center
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SEATTLE – Seattle Center hosts the 38th Annual Naturalization Ceremony, noon to 1 p.m., Tuesday, July 4th, and invites the public to observe as The Honorable David G Estudillo, Chief United States District Judge for the Western District of Washington, swears in over 500 candidates as new citizens of the United States of America.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services District 41, Acting Director Leanne J Leigh will present the candidates at this event, reaffirming the meaning of United States citizenship. It is an important day for the new citizens who come from diverse cultures across the globe.
Seattle Center, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington partner to produce the Naturalization Ceremony, held annually at Seattle Center for the past 37 years (event not held in 2020). Several local and national dignitaries will be present and speak at the event. All countries represented will be announced, and the eldest applicant and military personnel for citizenship will be introduced.
The program commences with the posting of Colors by the Washington State Guard Honor Guard and the singing of the national anthem by soloist Maria Plancich Kesovija, accompanied by Navy Band Northwest, followed by a Native American welcome by performers Gene Tagaban, storyteller, and musicians Peter Ali and Swil Kanim. Gospel singer Josephine Howell will give her heartfelt rendition of America the Beautiful. The Children of our Nations will lead the new citizens in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for their first time as U.S. citizens.
Join us in congratulating our Newest Citizens on July 4th!
