More Than 200 Take Oath To Be U.S. Citizens At New York Public Library

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- More than 200 New York City residents were feeling more American Friday, after being sworn in as new U.S. citizens.

The ceremony in Midtown Manhattan was dozens that took place throughout the country over the week. As CBS2's Raegan Medgie reported, those who took the oath said they are proud to call this country home.

One family in Elmhurst, Queens was celebrating being American and singing the National Anthem Friday. Their journey began with Felicidad Millere, who came from the Philippines 32 years ago.

"It was 1984, August 17," Millere said.

Millere finally became a U.S. citizen two months ago with her daughter, Mernel Delen, who has been in the country for 20 years. Both became citizens for the same reason.

"I want the right president for my children's future," Delen said. "It's not only me, but for my family."

And on Friday, more than 200 people from 54 different countries did the same for their families as they were all sworn in as new U.S. citizens.

Alejandro Del Cid was among the group – an even prouder father of two newborns. He came to the U.S. from Guatemala when he was in elementary school.

"To walk across that stage hearing my name – just my name being called out, is, honestly, my heart stopped for that like five seconds that I walked by," said Del Cid, of Washington Heights. "I'm safe. I'm home. I really truly call this home."

The ceremony took place at the New York Public Library. Many said they were grateful because finally, they could call themselves Americans.

"I'm an American!" Rita Emeribe said jubilantly.

"I wanted to cry. I really wanted to cry," said Althea Elliott of the Bronx. "I felt so overwhelmed. There is no word to describe how I am feeling."

That feeling is something Millere, of Elmhurst, Queens understands.

"I'm an American," she said. "I'm so happy that I have my children all here for better life."

This was the second year the ceremony took place at the New York Public Library. There was a larger