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Washington Evening Journal
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Washington, IA 52353
319-653-2191
VFW Post 7641 Auxiliary organized Fourth of July Parade
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
July 4 2025 is recognized as the 249th birthday of the United States. One would think the birthday date of the nation was a given but John Adams believed the correct date was July 2. He is reported to have turned down invitations to attend events held on July 4. Oddly, both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826 — the fiftieth anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
In 1870 after nearly 100 years, Congress declared July 4 to be a federal holiday. In 1941, Independence Day became a paid federal holiday. Celebrations of the day go back to the American Revolution. To be fair, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence on July 2, 1776. It wasn’t until July 4 that the delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration.
The New London community turned out in force to celebrate 259 years of U.S.A. history. The 2025 parade honored our Quilt of Valor veterans. One was reminded when all small communities formed parades and gathered for reunions and barbecues. Looking back through New London Journals of the past — entries in the parade moved from horse and buggy decorated with flowers to early autos decorated with bunting to convertibles. This year’s parade included creative decorating of golf carts. New London also welcomed tractors of all ages and beloved classic cars.
There were several categories of judging entries. In the Youth category: First place — New London Tiger Trap Team, Second place — Girl Scout Troop 1601 and Third — Big Creek Tractor Association. In the Adult category: First place — New London Country Club, Second — New London Casey’s Convenience Store and Third — Paul Boles. Congratulations Everyone!
Special thanks are due to Officer Sines who helped with the parade on his day off. Officer Sines is also an honored Quilt of Valor recipient. The New London Police, Fire and Rescue were hand as well. Their presence at all community events is critical to their success.
It is also important to note that one of New London’s newest families has a armed service member deployed. Sergeant 1st Class Bayquon McDonald Sr left in May this year with the Mount Pleasant National Guard. The unit has been posted to the Middle East. His wife, Patrice, teaches at Clark. She and the boys, Bayquon Jr. and Brayson are holding the fort here at home. Show them your support and appreciation for their service.
