The residents of Rincon came out as patriotic music and the colors red, white and blue filled the roads. 

A loud roar of excitement came as the parade drew near, which was led through the streets by the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort color guard. Children cheered, adults thanked them and retirees shouted "ooh-rah," as the Marines marched in their dress blues, carrying the colors down the long streets. 

The city of Rincon held its annual 4th of July Parade in celebration of the sacrifices made by the men and women of the armed forces and the hard work and dedication of America’s forefathers, June 29.

During the celebration, the city’s streets were lined with hundreds of residents in support of the active and retired service members of not only the city but the country as well. The parade also included area businesses, organizations and churches. 

"This event highlights the stuff America is built upon," said Aidan Mallory, a Rincon native. "From local small businesses to the military personnel, whether they’re active or retired, all represent what America is all about. This parade is a patriotic celebration in every sense of the word." 

The parade is one of the premier events for the growing city, and is celebrated by members of the community from all walks of life. 

"Being a part of the color guard and marching in front of those I am sworn to protect is especially important to me," said Lance Cpl. Alexander Brey, a food service specialist for the mess hall aboard MCAS Beaufort and a right rifleman with the color guard. "Hearing them cheer as we walk by reminds me of the sacrifices made by my fellow Marines and service members. It reminds me that they support us and stand alongside us through whatever our country calls us to do." 

Many residents help prepare for the Rincon parade months in advance. From decorating floats to designing signs and painting cars, the community goes out of its way to make the parade bigger every year. 

"When I moved to Rincon 16 years ago, I heard all the noise and came down to watch," said Mallory. "It’s a tradition for me, and next year I plan on making signs in support of the troops to give a little of what I have to the men and women that have done so much for countless Americans and myself. It is a nice way to remind people of the sacrifices the troops make that allow even the simplest of celebrations like this to exist."