A big thank you to everyone in the parade

Each year we celebrate the United States of America’s birthday with the biggest parade in the state, right here in Bigfork.

Especially on this day, I hope you took a moment to reflect on what freedom in America means to you. It was bought with a great price and continues to be purchased at a great price.

Even now as I write this letter our freedom is being secured by men and women we don’t know.

Let us all remember to thank a veteran when we meet one. He/she and their families have signed on to serve and sacrifice for this nation we call America so that we can continue to enjoy our freedom.

We owe a debt of gratitude to them.

It is an honor to share with Bigfork a Military Tribute, at the beginning of our parade. The presence of our service men and women, past and present, adds great value to our celebration. Their service and sacrifice, and God’s grace, is the reason we continue to celebrate our nation’s birthday.

Of course we always enjoy our very fine Fire and Ambulance kicking off the parade. You guys/gals are such a wonderful help and support towards our military guests.

Thank you, for both this year and last. You are awesome!

Our fourth of July parade just wouldn’t be right without the VFW’s presentation of the colors, thank you!

And the voice behind the microphone, John Pierson, thank you for the Star Spangled Banner!

Right behind our VFW was the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, another great group. Thank you women!

I always look forward to your entry.

Many of you probably have never heard of the Patriot Guard Riders. These dedicated veterans, on their motorcycles, come from all over the state to celebrate with us. Thank you for joining us.

The U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy had a wonderful time and plan on returning next year.

I thank them for sharing their day off with us. Thank you for making them feel so welcome.

And didn’t the Civil Air Patrol do a wonderful job? These young people are serving their nation right now.

Hats off to each of you!

I must also thank the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints for hosting our military to a wonderful pancake breakfast, enjoyed by all. Your transportation to the breakfast was very much appreciated.

There were so many wonderful patriotic entries. Thank you, thank you, thank you for making our parade the best in the state.

I look forward to an even better parade in 2013.

Here’s to planning your patriotic entry. America will be 237 years old — wow that is a lot of candles.

Kim Jones,

Fourth of July Parade

Chairman