A Symbol of Freedom

 
By: Gov. Larry Rhoden
October 3, 2025  

Recently, I got to visit one of the greatest symbols of freedom in the world: Mount Rushmore. I’ve been there many times, but I will never cease to be amazed by the power and splendor of that monument. We were there for a naturalization ceremony, which made that symbol of freedom even more powerful.

72 individuals raised their right hands and swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America. In doing so, they became citizens of our great nation. It was a powerful sight, and I’m glad my friend Secretary Kristi Noem could be there with us.

Every American has a responsibility to defend our Constitution and the freedoms that it enshrines. That’s true whether you became a citizen yesterday or your family came on the Mayflower.

Take my great-great-great grandfather, who fought in the Revolutionary War and served as aide to General Lafayette. His four brothers all perished in that war. They died fighting for American freedom. Because of their sacrifice, my great-great-great grandfather got to see the dawn of our great nation. And his descendants got to share in America’s freedoms.

It wasn’t always easy. Sometimes it required them to fight – like when my grandfather fought in World War I, or when my father fought in World War II. But that’s what we signed up for as Americans. It’s what our Founding Fathers signed up for 249 years ago. And it’s what those 72 new American citizens signed up for when they swore their oath.

How fitting to hold this celebration at Mount Rushmore, where nine months from now, we will celebrate America’s 250^th birthday! I can’t wait to see those fireworks go off again, and all the more for what we’ll be celebrating: a nation founded on freedom.

I’ve often said that South Dakota is the freest state in a nation founded on the principle of freedom. That became truer than ever when my predecessor, Governor Noem, bucked the trend and stood for freedom when no other leader would during COVID. I was by her side at that time. And now that I’m serving as Governor, I am following that example. It’s one that we should all follow: protect freedom and the American Constitution, even when it’s difficult – especially when it’s difficult.

As those 72 brave new Americans complete their journey, I trust that they will take on the same responsibility to defend American freedom. It’s a duty that each of us share, whether we serve in uniform or not.

I did swear an oath to support and defend the Constitution when I joined the National Guard. I’ve sworn it many times since as I held elected leadership positions, including as Governor. This responsibility is mine – and it’s all of ours. And we must do our best to fulfill it.

Guard your freedoms jealously, and I promise to do the same for every South Dakotan.

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