Kailua salutes patriotism at parade

For as far as the eyes could see along the mile-long stretch between Omao Street and Kailua Intermediate School, families lined Kainalu Drive on Friday for the 68th annual Kailua Independence Day Parade.

The parade featured more than 200 marchers, 40 vehicles, 40 floats, four bands — and families mostly dressed in red, white and blue and waving American flags.

"We Salute Kailua" was the theme of the event sponsored by the Kailua Chamber of Commerce.

"I think it’s great. It shows American spirit," said Sgt. Maj. Andrew Cece, 46, who marched with about 20 members of Kapolei High School’s Marine Corps JROTC. They marched together for the first time to support the community, Cece said, adding that they received a lot of support.

The parade was another first for five members of the Sons of the American Revolution. "By recognizing our heritage we keep our culture alive," Sons member Alan Mccullough, 61, said.

Christopher Tourtellot, 46, another Sons member, said the organization plans on participating again next year. He said he enjoys the holiday for the patriotism and "realizing where we come from as a nation."

Families could be heard cheering and yelling "thank you" when members of the armed forces walked by. The Coast Guard Auxillary, Korean War Veteran Association and Marine Corps League Aloha Detachment 363 were among the groups that marched.

Luis Alejandro Parker, 65, and Nalu Perez, 67, also marched with Vietnam Veterans Chapter 858. Parker said he has marched in the parade every year since 2000, when the chapter was formed. His favorite part is the crowd’s support and appreciation.

"Now we feel really proud to be American," he said.

For many the day was about being with family.

Biangham Pili-Tui-Faoa, 35, had gone to the parade with his family for the last 22 years.

"It still brings the family together," he said.

Amelia Jenkins, 64, another parade veteran, said she has noticed changes in the last 15 years, like the increase in participants and attendees.

"I just think it’s a great family activity for Kailua, and it seems that people really appreciate it," she said.