The combined forces of military pride and holiday cheer shone through for the Four Corners Board of Realtors Parade of Lights in Cortez Saturday night.
The parade has been a popular tradition going on in Cortez for about three decades. It took over Main Street on Saturday night.
This year’s theme was “A Salute to Hometown Heroes,” in particular honoring Marine Gunnery Sgt. Scott A. Koppenhafer of Mancos and Army Green Beret Sgt. 1st Class Will Lindsay of Cortez, who both died in service this year.
Veterans Rick Torres, Rick Kriner, and Bob Sanders participated in the parade of lights.
Re-1 Schools District Transportation brought out this military wrecker for the parade.
Students from the Blue Mountain Unity club at San Juan High School in Blanding, Utah, had a float this year. From left: Sonja John, Shynette Begaye, Ariana Merritt, and Esperanza Lu.
Tuffy Security Products got fully behind this year’s “Salute to Hometown Heroes” theme in their float decoration.
Floats lined up on Maple Street in the late afternoon.
Saluting those who serve in military and civilian jobs is the theme of this year’s Parade of Lights in Cortez.
This massive crane, owned by Tucker Transportation, entered the parade for the first time this year.
Ute Mountain Casino float staff Will Leight, Nicky Posey and Brad Waltman prepared their float for the Parade of Lights.
Floats lining up on Maple Street in the late afternoon.
This float had some dramatic fire effects.
Jim Mimiaga/The Journal Lennie Clark, of Slavens, played live rock guitar during the Parade of Lights, including the Star Spangled Banner, Jimmy Hendrix style.
Jim Mimiaga/The Journal<br>The Blue Mountain Unity club royalty honored local heroes with their float.
Local churches participated with enthusiasm in the parade of lights.
A crew of happy parade-goers.
Local businesses participated in the Parade of Lights in Cortez Saturday night.
The parade honored “hometown heroes” of all sorts, including many forms of law enforcement.
Marching bands from all around the region serenaded the crowds that swarmed Main Street.
Some of the floats had explosive components this year, with flames, smoke, and more.
A float honoring the Navajo code talkers.
Engines revved at the parade this year, with a few car races nearly breaking out.
Flags and patriotic songs abounded, as groups sought to incorporate the “Salute to Hometown Heroes” theme into their floats.
