Photo By Spc. Scott Lindblom | Sgt. Rocky, the 3rd Infantry Division mascot hugs children during his first time...... read more read more
SAVANNAH, Ga. – The dog faced Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Division shared their Marne spirit with the community in the 192nd St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 17 in downtown Savannah.
It has become a tradition for the division and local military leaders to show their support to the community and help celebrate one of the largest parades of its kind in the country.
Leading the way for the 3rd ID was 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade command team Col. Jeffrey Becker and Command Sgt. Maj. George M. Dove with the rest of the formation being made up of Soldiers from every battalion in the Falcon brigade.
“I am excited to be in a huge event that is so well supported by the Savannah community. Professionally I am excited because of how accepting and inclusive this community is of its military members,” Becker said.
Pfc. Alan Thibodeaux, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd CAB said it was his third time marching in the parade. He smiled as he described the experience.
“It is a unique experience being here in Savannah. It is always a great time. People will literally come through the ranks just to give you a kiss on your cheeks,” Thibodeaux said.
Thibodeaux is originally from New Orleans and said the parade is the closest thing he’s seen to the Mardi Gras festivities there.
The 3rd ID Band is annually one of the crowd favorites. The “Rhythm of the Marne” frequently broke formation and interacted with the crowd while cultivating a fun atmosphere with their upbeat music.
A first timer in the parade, Sgt. 1st Class Cheryl Pierce, HHC, 3rd CAB said she was excited about marching in the parade.
“I enjoy doing things that bring together our armed forces with the community,” Pierce said. “It was fun. I think everyone did well. The band was extremely motivating so congratulations to our 3rd ID band. The color guard was outstanding.”
While walking along the parade route, Becker and Dove took every opportunity to shake the hands of veterans who were in attendance. The new Falcon brigade commander couldn’t hide his enthusiasm after the parade was finished.
“It was full of excitement. Really an incredible experience with the showing of the city of Savannah. I talked with someone that came down from Boston, and Charleston and people came from all over,” Becker said. “It was an incredible show of support for our military forces. It’s very heartwarming to receive that kind of support and really makes me feel honored to wear this uniform.”
| Date Taken: | 03.17.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 03.21.2016 14:26 |
| Story ID: | 193054 |
| Location: | SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, US |
| Web Views: | 106 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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