The Perry Chamber of Commerce will host the 2016 Independence Parade and Freedom Fireworks Celebration on June 26. The parade starts at 6 p.m. on Washington St. featuring the Hometown Heroes, military units, colorful floats, Uncle Sam, The Perry Dogwood Queens and more. The route ends at the Georgia National Fairgrounds where guests will be treated to free admission to a fun, picnic style celebration starting at 7 p.m. at the West Gate. Food vendors will be on site or guests can bring their own picnic, coolers, blankets and chairs. No alcohol, pets or personal fireworks are allowed, and for more information, call 478-987-1234 or go to  perrygachamber.com.

Darlene McLendon, president and CEO of Perry Area Chamber of Commerce gives the scoop on what event goers can expect and why honoring the area’s veterans at this annual event is so important to the community.

What can you tell our readers about your Independence Parade?  

“The Perry Independence Parade and Freedom Fireworks kicks-off a week-long celebration in Houston County.  In our county, we are blessed that all three cities make a big deal about our country’s birthday.  However, if we all tried to do our events at the same time, it could quickly make for a really crowded weekend.  

“Last year, we made the decision to have our parade focus on paying tribute to our veterans.  We call them our Hometown Heroes.  We partner with the City of Perry for trams in the parade on which our veterans can ride and wave to the crowd.  It’s a great opportunity for the public to show up and thank these men and women who have served to protect the freedoms we all enjoy.

The Grand Marshal for this year’s parade is Penrose Wolf. Why was he selected?

“When we decided to dedicate our parade to honoring veterans, we also decided to choose a veteran to serve as our Grand Marshal.  We invite any and all to submit a nomination form for this honor and let us know about veterans in our area.  

“From the nomination forms submitted, the Perry Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee selects the Grand Marshal.  Mr. Wolf’s nomination brought to light his service to our country.  Mr. Wolf served in the 87^th Infantry Division of General George Patton’s Third Army.  His military awards and decorations include the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two service stars for the Rhineland and Central European Campaigns, Army Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory Medal.”   

What other events do you have planned and what are the costs?

“Our Independence Parade always ends at the Georgia National Fairgrounds where we move into our Freedom Fireworks event.  Notice the theme: honor those who fought for our freedom and then take a family-atmosphere moment to enjoy such freedoms.  Our Freedom Fireworks event is another great partnership with the City of Perry and includes live entertainment by Backwoodz Branded, picnics, a Kids’ Zone, and--of course--fireworks at dark.  

“There is no cost to attend the parade or fireworks.  The only cost involved at the event is the Kids’ Zone ($10 wristband) and any food purchased on site from the vendors.”  (There is also an application fee to be in the parade.)

What is the relationship and history between Perry Area Chamber of Commerce and the military, and why is this event so important to your community?

“While all of Middle Georgia has ties with the military, having Robins Air Force Base in our backyard makes it a huge part of our community.  Along with other area chambers, the Perry Area Chamber of Commerce has a Military Affairs Committee which focuses on building relationships with the leaders at RAFB so that we can be proactive partners.

“Obviously, all area leaders know the importance of keeping RAFB viable and strong, and our Chamber wants to do all that we can to aid in this initiative.  This event is another opportunity to partner with RAFB as their Command Staff rides in the parade; they provide military units in the procession as well as the lead our Honor Guard.”