Another Independence Day Parade on Main Street of Wheaton Illinois is a memory.  These are a few of the photos that remind me of how diverse and unique is the American experience.  The course of historical events has brought us to this point in time and place.  So, join me curbside to view the spectacle, feel the excitement, hear the music, and on occasion engage individuals marching in support of a cause….

The pre-parade festivities begin with a family breakfast on the front lawn.  Would you guess that these guys are good friends?

No 4th of July Parade would be complete without the military color guard.  Originally a British colony, our country was founded at the culmination of a war for independence.  the will to fight for freedom is remembered on Independence day.

The restored WW II era half-track must bring back memories for some of my father’s generation.

What would a 4th of July parade be without political parties marching to cultivate support?  It will take more than a give-away plastic whistle, or candy favors to earn my vote!  Seriously this part of our political process is one of the most fun aspects of running for office.  The candidates come to the neighborhood, wave, and shake hands along the curb as they move past.

A parade is opportunity to display and have fun with vehicles of all types.  Members of the Shrine Club are a standard feature in parades.  I could almost become a Shriner just to ride in the parade.

A spectacular heavy-duty tow truck was awe inspiring to the kid in all of us.

How is this for a delightfully weird mode of transportation?  What about a ride with Darth Vader?

Many community service organizations are featured in the parade.  It is a blessing to be able to care for various needs by informally organizing others who share a concern.

Pflag is an organization that unites families and allies with people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer.  The sign speaks for itself.

Mothers against gun violence represented their concern to reduce the numbers of people killed and maimed by the numbers of firearms in the community.

Of course businesses also promote their services with a presence in the parade.  Here a child does her part to promote Orangetheory Fitness.  Parades are for children above all.

Who does not enjoy the music of a parade?

Bagpipers, high school marching bands, Rock N Roll bands on flatbed trucks all move by passionately offering their tunes to everyone.

Does life get any better than this?

No.