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YourHub.com \\ Santa Clarita Valley \\ Stories \\ Holidays \\ Independence Day

Calling all veterans to march in July 4 parade

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Contributed by: Teresa Todd on 7/1/2007

Calling all military veterans from every branch, era, and rank to join fellow U.S. veterans as they march in this year's Santa Clarita Fourth of July parade in downtown Newhall on Wednesday, July 4. Carrying the colors of each branch, along with battalion, POW and National Guard flags, organizers hope to gather a large number of veterans to represent their service to this country.

Whether a veteran served in the Persian Gulf, Vietnam, World War II, Korea or any other military operation or war, members of the local chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America 'The Lost Patrol' encourage those who have served our country to assemble this Wednesday at the Veteran's Historical Plaza, 24275 N. Walnut Street, Newhall beginning at 7:00 a.m. for a parade start at 9:45 a.m.

"As veterans of this country who have sacrificed for our country's freedom, it is important to have a strong presence at the celebration of our nation's birthday," said Frank LaRosa, Jr., president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 355. Organizers hope to reach out to other veterans living in the area who may not know the organization exists. The local chapter covers the Santa Clarita, San Fernando, Simi, and Antelope valleys.

"We live our motto 'Vets for Vets' in that we provide help and support to other veterans who may need someone to intervene and assist with disability claims, complaints, or other needs." To march with the veterans' parade entry or to learn more about the local organization, contact LaRosa at (818) 508-9626 or Ed Borgen at (661) 296-6688.

Santa Clarita's Fourth of July parade attracts more than 25,000 spectators cheering 3,000-plus participants down the streets of Old Town Newhall. In addition to the veteran's organization, musical groups, civic organizations, equestrian units, dignitaries and local businesses will be among those participating in this year's parade line-up.

In honor of Santa Clarita's year-long anniversary commemoration, "Celebrating 20 Years of Cityhood" is this year's parade theme. Santa Clarita's first mayor, Congressman Howard P. "Buck" McKeon, will preside as grand marshal. An assembly of past and present mayors will be featured as parade division marshals.

Parade begins at 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday, July 4 with street closures by 8:30 a.m. Early arrival is strongly recommended for the best choice of viewing locations. Residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and plenty of sunscreen, but leave the silly string and water toys at home. Strict enforcement will be in effect for a city ordinance prohibiting the use of silly string and all other projectile devices along the parade route.

Announcing stations along the route will be set up at various locations along San Fernando Road, Lyons Avenue and Orchard Village Road. Parade winners will be announced following the parade at the El Trocadero Restaurant patio located at 24274 San Fernando Road, Newhall. For more information visit www.scvparade.com.

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