Marching band takes part in annual parade

The Blair marching band performed in the Thanksgiving Parade: A Salute to Law Enforcement that took place on Nov 23 in downtown Silver Spring.

The parade, which replaced Montgomery County's annual Holiday Parade, served as a ceremony honoring both victims of and law enforcement agents involved in the recent shootings in the area, said County Executive Douglas Duncan in a Montgomery County Police press release.

Spirit lady and media center instructional assistant Susan Madden said that Blair's marching band has participated in the event almost every year since the first parade about five years ago. Madden, who frequently volunteers at the parade, explained that the parade route is broken into sections, the first of which Blair marches in.

A memorial service honoring the victims of the shootings and the victim's families was held at St. Michael's Church before the parade. The service represented the faiths of all victims.

Various school marching bands, community organizations and representatives from regional law enforcement offices were among the groups that participated in the parade. ABC 7 Chief Meteorologist Doug Hill was the Master of Ceremonies, and Police Chief Charles Moose was one of six Grand Marshals.

The parade blocked roads and restricted parking along the parade route, which included Georgia Avenue, Wayne Avenue, and Fenton Street.