BY DEBBIE PAGE

Thousands of people lined Main Street early on Saturday morning to wave and cheer at the 18th Annual Independence Day Parade in Troutman. The 2023 Grand Marshal was Purple Heart Homes and all veterans.

The hour-long parade featured over 150 entries, including floats, marching units, church and school groups, civic organizations, Scout troops, motorcycles, military units, muscle and antique cars, fire engines, law enforcement, beauty queens, re-enactment groups, politicians, military vehicles, and, most importantly, veterans of the U.S. Armed Services.

Children, dressed in their patriotic best, were mesmerized by the floats and loaded up on candy from parade participants. Pups also sported their red, white, and blue as part of the celebration.

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