MILTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Milton residents gathered Thursday for the annual Independence Day parade.
From traditionalists to daredevils, it was a parade to remember for all ages.
“This is my first parade ever — 79 years–old,” said Milton’s John Perrotte. “It’s overwhelming to see the amount of people from the town who join in and the old cars, the tractors –it’s just beautiful.”
“I’ve never gone to a parade,” said Natalie Wellis, 16.
Six-year-old Shria Singh joined in on the fun, scootering by with her sister Mia.
Reporter Laura Ullman: What does it feel like to walk in the parade?
Shria Singh: It feels fun because you get to see some friends.
It was hot and sunny and many took advantage of getting splashed with water guns, but not exactly a cure for thirst.
Some we spoke with couldn’t get snacks off their mind. Children danced, flags were flying, and families — no matter their political affiliation — celebrated the country’s birthday together.
“We’re all here for the same thing and we live in the best country in the world,” said Elizabeth Perrotte of Milton.
Gary and Sharon Trombly enjoyed their 60th wedding on the parade sidelines. In 1964, they united their families, and on this 4th of July they’re celebrating — and calling for — a different kind of unity. “It’s awesome. It’s the patriotism and the people getting together, and we need to at this time,” Sharon said.
Many we spoke to here say they hope that the sense of unity the parade inspired resonates across the country.