CARMEL – Fifteen residents of Putnam County recited their oath of allegiance to the United States and received a rousing ovation at the historic Putnam Courthouse on Wednesday. They are America’s newest citizens. Since 2015, following a 20-year hiatus, hundreds of newcomers has taken their oaths thanks to the efforts of County Clerk Michael Bartolotti and his staff.
The newest citizens come from 12 countries: Brazil, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, India, Kosovo, Latvia, Mexico, Nepal, Pakistan, Spain and the Ukraine.
The 45-minute-long ceremony was officiated over by State Supreme Court Justice Anne Minihan, Administrative Judge of the 9th Judicial District, who congratulated the new citizens for “earning your citizenship through hard work. You are now full-fledged Americans. Get involved in your community but never leave your heritage behind.”
The judge reminded the first Class of 2026 to “take tremendous pride in your accomplishment because citizenship is a humble responsibility. We welcome you.”
County Clerk Michael Bartolotti, when administering the oath of allegiance to the new citizens, described the ceremony as the “best day of my job. Thank you for taking this journey. You made the trip here. Please stay involved.”
Putnam County Legislature Chairman Dan Birmingham called on the new citizens to “celebrate your heritage in this country. Today is a celebration highlighting your long journey of perseverance and commitment.”
And Rabbi Sarah Freidson of Temple Beth Shalom in Mahopac reminded those in attendance: “America’s strength lies in the unity of many nations.”
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