By Dave Thompson
Bismarck, ND – March 11th was a very special day for 25 people.
They became U-S citizens, at a naturalization ceremony in Bismarck.
It was the first naturalization class for 2002 -- and this one had special significance -- because it came on the six-month anniversary of the September 11th attacks.
Federal Magistrate Dwight Kautzmann performed the naturalization ceremony.
"What makes it super for me is that each one of you who sit here today are absolute living proof of one thing -- the enemies of the United States will never, ever vanquish this country as long as people like you keep coming."
Maravatil Eapen came to the U-S from India. Eapen says he has found the people of North Dakota very friendly and open. And he says he hasn't encountered any discrimination.
"People have been extremely helpful, I think, And I find the government offices are very courteous, very helpful, compared to other countries where I've been. Here, they treat you well, I think."
Joseph Castamby came from Mexico.
"America is the best country to be in. That's why I'm so proud to be a citizen of America."
William and Susan Canham emigrated from Canada. The couple and two of their children became U-S citizens.
"I think mainly because of opportunity," said William Canham. "A lot of my family have been citizens and have immigrated from Canada over a couple of generations."
"We came down here because of opportunities for work," said Susan Canham. "And we came down for our children."