July 4, 2013, was very special for the Gaspar de Portola Chapter members and guests. They celebrated the independence of our nation by entering a float in the Redwood City Independence Day parade. The float identified strongly with the parade theme of “Our American Heritage.” Decorated with 2 large US flags, the current flag with 50 stars and 13 stripes and the Continental flag with 13 stars, the float connected our past to our present. The float was decorated with red, white, and blue bunting and fringe, and along the sides were printed “Patriotism, Historic Preservation  & Education.”

Parade organizers announced each float as it approached the many stations along the route so spectators would learn of the float participants and their respective organizations. Each station announced the “DAR was founded in 1890 as a non-profit and non-political volunteer women’s service organization which is dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education for children.” Spectators heard how the Gaspar de Portola Chapter members volunteer to support veteran patients, award thousands of dollars in scholarships and financial aid each year to students, and support schools for under-served children. It was quite an emotional day as the spectators smiled, applauded, cheered and thanked the chapter’s members.  The pride felt, the praise, and honor received was truly a gift.

Submitted by: Bev Weager