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TUCSON - For more than twenty people, today will forever mark their independence as a U.S. citizen.

It's the first time in over a decade Tucson has had a citizenship ceremony on the 4th of July.

Twenty-one new citizens are proud to call themselves Americans - a dream that they can't stop smiling about.

"I couldn't have done it without the help of my loving wife and children," said Sean Superville.

The journey to citizenship was a long one for many.

"I've been here since I was 4 years old growing up in the nation's capita, and it's like you're not on the outside anymore," said Superville.

"We came over here when we were 12 years old and studied here," said Alberto Calvillo.

After years of hoping and dreaming of being a full-fledged American, they finally got their wish on Independence Day.

"It's a great day. Fourth of July, citizen, it can't get better than this," said Calvillo.

These 21 new citizens from 11 countries are the first group in over a decade to celebrate their citizenship in Tucson on fourth of July.

The Saguaro National Park hosted the ceremony.

"The staff is very excited about it to show off the park because the national park is almost as American as apple pie," said Al Gallman with Citizenship and Immigration Services.

In total, over 4,200 nationwide were sworn in to citizenship on this day.