On Sunday, San Mateo held the 40th Anniversary Homecoming Parade for our city's adopted .
As with most parades, old and young lined the streets waiting with anticipation. Many people sported red, white, and blue clothing. Even more waived flags.
None were disappointed. The parade and BBQ in Central Park were just one day of the weekend long celebration.
A local Boy Scout troop gave out flags for the onlookers to wave. CERT Volunteers were in place to assist any parade goers in need. Local media was there to cover the event.
For me, the parade started and I literally felt my heart swell with pride. Pride that here in San Mateo we welcome and applaud those who serve to protect us regardless of politics. I looked at the many faces watching the parade and saw the same pride reflected.
Appropriately it started with our Chief of Police, Susan Manheimer waiving to the crowd from an what I am guessing was a late 50s police car. Early on, the contingent here from the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles were welcomed. Applause broke out up and down the parade route as they were spotted. Following were so many community groups from the Shriners to the Lyons Club and everything in between. Everyone was welcomed with more applause and cheering.
After the parade the festivities moved to . San Mateo firemen held a BBQ and kids climbed on old fire engines. As I moved through the crowds I kept overhearing the same conversation. People stopped the active duty soldiers to thank them. They in turn thanked the San Mateo people for having them. I am thankful I was there to see it both times. Thank you, San Mateo!
Check back on San Mateo Patch Tuesday morning for a video of the parade.
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