The 97th annual Carson Valley Days Parade was an event worthy of its founder.
H.F. Dangberg Jr. was an impresario and his vision has come down to us from nearly a century in the past.
This year marked the return of a balloon launch to the celebration, a majestic sight that has been far too rare in years past.
People filled the two-mile route of the parade, which featured fire trucks, farm tractors and floats from Valley organizations.
The entire weekend is organized by a handful of volunteers, the Carson Valley Active 20-30 Club.
This year's theme, a tribute to the troops, took on a deeper meaning with the news of the death of 1997 Douglas High School graduate Joshua Rodgers. Rodgers' helicopter was shot down over Afghanistan and his memorial service was Sunday.
Rodgers was killed while taking part in an effort to spread freedom and prosperity to a remote part of the world.
Carson Valley Days is a reminder of that freedom and prosperity.
It is a testament to the American way of life men and women like Chief Warrant Officer 2 Joshua Rodgers are defending every day.
It is imperative that we remember our countrymen, a handful of volunteers, working and fighting for all of us.
