'Our American Heroes' parade to follow first-ever color guard
Until this year, there really hasn't been a color guard for the Crescent Bar Fourth of July Parade. Last year came close with this picture of pure Americana, a red convertible and Old Glory.
CRESCENT BAR - Crescent Bar Fourth of July Parade organizer Karen Wirta has gleefully announced that the parade will be led off by a color guard this year.
North Park resident Bob Duda has arranged for 10 flags from the Quincy Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post No. 24. All he needs now is man power.
The parade has never had a color guard. Duda tried to arrange for one last year but contacted the VFW too close to parade time to get it done.
The VFW is sending 10 flags and Post Commander Mark Owens to represent the organization. The flags will represent the U.S., the VFW and each branch of the military.
So far Duda, who served in the U.S. Air Force, and John Fern (U.S. Army) have signed up to carry a flag. There is a need for at least seven more flag bearers, and they do not have to be military veterans.
"Anyone can carry the flags. All they need is to want to," Duda said.
Persons who would like to assist with the color guard may call Duda at 787-4142 or Wirta at 787-8085.
According to Wirta, the theme of this year's parade will be "Our American Heroes." As usual, participants are not asked to sign up in advance. All they have to do is show up at the staging ground (fire station) at 9 a.m. the day of the parade.
"We never know what we're going to get until the morning of the parade," Wirta said. "But it works. The people here really respond."
The entire Fourth of July celebration will be held on July 3. The fireworks show will be held after dark.
The parade will begin at 10 a.m. and wind its way through several of the North Park streets. Staging will begin at 9 a.m.
"If you want to be judged, please register and receive an entry number before 9:30," Wirta said. "There will be treats and awards for the participants back at the firehouse after the parade."
The prizes will be for Judges Award (best representation of the theme), best golf car (decorated), best car/truck/boat, best costume, best float (towed by golf car, car or truck), best bicycle/tricycle, stroller/toy car/skates and best display of patriotism.