This year’s Parade of 1,000 Flags lived up to its legacy as Ridgecrest’s signature event. On Saturday the parade, including Burroughs High School marching band, local luminaries and -- of course -- a sea of red, white and blue, made its way up South China Lake Boulevard and into Freedom Park. After the flag-bearers planted their colors in Remembrance Park to form the Field of Remeberance, a heartfelt 9/11 program spoke of the legacy of the historic event.
First up was a bagpipe medley by Zack Snyder and the Kern County Pipe Band, followed by a special arrangement of “God Bless America.” James Bell from the Ridgecrest Exchange Club served as Master of Ceremonies for the event.
After the China Lake Color Guard posted the colors, the Farris Family Singers led the crowd in the National Anthem and Boy Scout Troop 35 member Andrew Quakenbush led the flag salute.