SALADO, Texas-- As classic Christmas music echoed throughout the historic downtown area, hundreds of onlookers lined the streets to watch the merriments of the parade unfold.
Troopers from the 1st Cavalry Division "First Team," participated in the 16th Annual Salado Christmas Parade here Dec. 1 alongside members of the community. The parade marked the beginning of Salado's Christmas festivities.
First Team's presence at the parade was in full effect with the division's color guard leading the procession, followed by the 1st Cavalry Division horse detachment and band, a 30-manned, military formation from 1st Brigade, and Stryker from 3rd Cavalry Regiment.
"It was an honor to serve as Salado's Christmas Parade's military grand marshal," said Lt. Col. Robin Montgomery, the 3rd Cav. Regt. "Brave Rifles" home station mission commander. "We are proud to be partnered with the city of Salado to not only share in the festivities of the holidays but to build a stronger community. And, building a stronger relationship with the communities across Texas is our ultimate goal."
The involvement in the parade is part of First Team's ongoing community relations program with surrounding central Texas communities. Brave Rifles is Salado's adopted partner unit, and this event is just one of the many events shared between the regiment and the city of Salado.
More than 20 other organizations to include students from the Salado Independent School District, various youth organizations, the local church and members of the Salado Chamber of Commerce lined up to participate in the parade.
"I absolutely enjoyed the Parade," said Debbra Perrault, a resident of Salado who attended the event with her family. "It was great to see Fort Hood Soldiers and members of the community come together for this event."
Perrault said this was her first-time attending the parade, although, she lived in Salado for nine years.
"I definitely will not miss this opportunity again; I'm looking forward to taking my family to the parade again next year," Perrault said.
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