EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) — Fernando Valenzuela, a name synonymous with the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 1981 World Series triumph, typically spends his summer evenings sharing the excitement from Dodger Stadium’s broadcast booth.
However, this past Monday, the legendary former pitcher found himself at Chavez Ravine for a different reason: being acknowledged for his remarkable contributions as a naturalized U.S. citizen.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) celebrated Valenzuela by awarding him the Outstanding Americans by Choice accolade.
“It was Fernandomania at Dodger Stadium…” the USCIS tweeted on Tuesday. “We recognized him for his efforts in promoting citizenship and inspiring eligible immigrants to embrace U.S. citizenship.”
Valenzuela, originally from the quaint town of Etchohuaquila in Sonora, Mexico, was honored before an audience of 2,100 newly naturalized citizens.
The Dodgers Stadium outfield served as the backdrop where individuals from 120 different nations pledged their allegiance to the United States.
USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou, who administered the oath, said it was an honor welcoming the new citizens and recognizing the legendary Valenzuela.
“I cannot imagine a more perfect place to celebrate this momentous occasion than at Blue Heaven on Earth!” she said.
On Thursday, 500 people from 92 countries took the oath of allegiance and became new citizens at the Kansas City Royals’ stadium in Kansas City, Missouri.
