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Photos of America’s best Fourth of July parade!

Many say the best Fourth of July parade in America takes place every year in Coronado. Thousands of spectators line Orange Avenue and watch a glorious two hour parade that stretches from one side of the island to the other.

This year I managed to take a bunch of good photos. You can get a flavor of the patriotism and the appreciation our community has for those who serve in the military. Coronado, of course, is home to many Navy SEALs and a Naval Air Station, including two active aircraft carriers. And San Diego is home to most of the Pacific Fleet and a large number of Marines. Over the years, many veterans have also settled down in our fair city.

I saw many smiling families and much love of country on this Independence Day. These photos (except for the one above) are in chronological sequence. First we see a crowd gathering along the parade route…

The Star-Spangled Banner was sung before the parade commenced. Hats came off, and some saluted.

The kids were drawing poop circles. If a horse makes a deposit inside your circle, you win!

Here we go!

These guys, under the direction of a Drill Instructor, periodically reenacted Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima during the parade.

A wounded warrior received a Thank You and loud cheers.

People crossed Orange Avenue during breaks in the parade.

Those guys in the classic cars are Pearl Harbor survivors.

There were some guys engaged in Star Wars cosplay at this point during the parade. Check my previous blog post to see photos of that!

That’s just a taste of what is arguably the best Fourth of July parade in America!

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Mormon Battalion celebrates Flag Day in Old Town.

Mormon Battalion flag flies during a special event in Old Town San Diego.

I was invited to a unique event that took place yesterday. A special Flag Day Ceremony was held at the Mormon Battalion Historic Site in San Diego’s Old Town. The event remembered World War I and saluted all American veterans.

During the ceremony five veterans from different military services were made honorary members of the Mormon Battalion. A cake was cut with a military saber and an American flag that has been flown over the U.S. Capital and over Fort Leavenworth (where the historic Mormon Battalion originated) was raised.

The patriotic ceremony was organized by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, whose members composed the Mormon Battalion, the only religiously based unit in United States military history. Commanded by regular U.S. Army officers, members of the battalion marched almost 2,000 miles from Council Bluffs, Iowa, to San Diego, California to help secure the region during the Mexican–American War. Much of the difficult march was over mountains and through desert. They saw no fighting.

I have noticed that Mormons treasure liberty–religious freedom in particular. I’m not a Mormon–very far from it–but I do happen to be a strong believer in personal liberty. That’s because I’m a writer. Also, as a child I traveled with my family behind the Iron Curtain twice. I have briefly seen how dark life is without liberty.

A friendly Mormon lady in pioneer dress welcomes guests to the Flag Day Celebration.

This 2017 celebration of Flag Day honored veterans who served with distinction.

Guests are welcomed by Director of the San Diego Mormon Battalion Historic Site, Elder Michael Hemingway.

The United States flag is posted after the National Anthem.

Folding of the flag. Each of the thirteen folds is invested with a special meaning.

Four American veterans on stage are honored and made honorary members of the Mormon Battalion. — Four American veterans on stage are applauded and made honorary members of the Mormon Battalion.

Keynote speaker General Bruce Carlson, USAF, Ret. talks about liberty. He is also made an honorary member of the Mormon Battalion.

Young members of Marine Band San Diego after the ceremony.

The United States Marine Corps bus contains an image of the flag being raised during the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Pageantry and remembrance at a Flag Day Ceremony in Old Town San Diego.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Photos of Memorial Day at Mount Hope Cemetery.

San Diegans gather for a dignified Memorial Day ceremony on GAR Hill at Mount Hope Cemetery. — San Diegans gather for a Memorial Day ceremony at Mount Hope Cemetery.

The second Memorial Day event that I attended yesterday took place at Mount Hope Cemetery. I had never before visited this history-filled municipal cemetery.

Mount Hope is where many of San Diego’s early residents are buried. It’s hilly and sprawling, with thousands of scattered headstones and monuments. Thousands of names are eternally engraved.

The dignified Memorial Day ceremony was held atop GAR Hill. I learned that G.A.R. stands for Grand Army of the Republic. The fraternal organization is composed of veterans who fought on the Union side during the American Civil War. On grassy GAR Hill rest many Union soldiers who fought bravely.

The annual event, I also learned, is organized by both the Sons and Daughters of Union Veterans, and Sons and Daughters of the Confederacy. Over a thousand Civil War veterans are buried at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Yesterday afternoon I stood and watched a moving tribute to those who had fought in the war that ended slavery. Some of the participants wore Civil War uniforms and period dress. History came to life with eloquent words of remembrance, and the singing of The Battle Hymn of the Republic and Amazing Grace. Several speakers recalled the men who fought, their sacrifices, and the triumph of liberty. Our current times were also addressed. It is necessary to stay firm in the defense of freedom.

This year the ceremony honored one Civil War soldier in particular: Henry Neal Fletcher, 4th Corporal, Company G, 3rd Iowa Cavalry. He fought for the Union. Both of his grandfathers fought in the Revolutionary War. From them he learned how freedom was won. He died a beloved member of the San Diego community.

The idea for Memorial Day is thought to have come from the tradition of decorating soldier’s graves in late spring with flowers, a custom that predated the Civil War. During the war, with so many dead, the practice became very common. The tradition finally became formalized, and known as Decoration Day.

On this Memorial Day, atop a quiet hill, I saw many flags decorating the graves of soldiers.

While some gathered for the ceremony, others read the nearby gravestones and wondered at the sacrifices made long ago. — While some prepare for the ceremony, others read the nearby gravestones and wonder at the sacrifices made long ago.

American flags decorate the graves of fallen soldiers.

This grave marker design was established by the Grand Army of the Republic. Here lies a Union soldier. Sergeant Francis E. Webster, 10th U.S. Infantry.

Some participants wore Civil War uniforms--both blue and gray. They posted the flags and provided a musket salute. — Some participants wore Civil War uniforms–both blue and gray. They posted the flags and provided a musket salute.

This restored mortar dates from the American Civil War. It stands on GAR Hill at Mount Hope Cemetery.

One of many gravestones. Here lies P.W. Bradbury, a scout under General Fremont. — One of many old gravestones. Here lies P.W. Bradbury, a scout under General Fremont.

Honor guards perform March On The Colors.

Speeches follow an Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. — Thoughtful speeches follow an Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance.

Holly Kirkman of John Muir School reads her inspirational, award-winning essay What Memorial Day Means to Me. — Holly Kirkman of John Muir School reads her inspirational, award-winning essay “What Memorial Day Means to Me.”

Dedication Of Flowers. Red, then white, then blue flowers are placed by the grave marker of Henry Neal Fletcher.

The program included a short biography of Henry Neal Fletcher who fought in the Union Army. (Click image to read.) — The program included a short biography of Henry Neal Fletcher, who fought in the Union Army. (Click image to read.)

Remembering the fallen on Memorial Day, at Mount Hope Cemetery in San Diego.

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Memorial Day at The Veterans Museum in Balboa Park.

Vietnamese Community of San Diego wreath stands in front of the San Diego Peace Memorial. — Vietnamese Community of San Diego wreath stands by Peace Memorial.

Today I attended two Memorial Day ceremonies.

First, in the morning, I walked up to Balboa Park. There I joined others in remembering those who’d lost their lives in a terrible war. An emotional ceremony was held at the San Diego Vietnam Peace Memorial, which is located right next to The Veterans Museum. Special attention was given during this event to those who died serving their country during the Vietnam War.

Please forgive me. When I arrived I was in a quiet mood. I stood off to the side mostly, took no notes, snapped a photo now and then. I mostly just absorbed the speeches, the music, the flowers, so many names on bronze plaques and proud salutes by veterans in attendance. I felt a bit shy and didn’t grab a program. I regret that now. I forget the names of the speakers, and the lady who sang so beautifully.

Members of Vietnam Veterans of America, 472, were present. Before the morning program commenced, they had read names of the fallen–the Calling of the Names.

Many from the local Vietnamese community also attended. Some among them had fought in the war.

I remember that the keynote speech was very clear and very powerful. It was about service, and courage, and liberty, and friendship, and pain, and sacrifice, and history. It acknowledged the horror of war. Those who fought would rather have been at home in peace. All gave some; some gave all.

Those whose names are eternally engraved on the Peace Memorial have earned the gratitude of many.

Here are a few photos.

Flags are presented. — Flags are readied.

A dignified program commences. The Vietnam War is remembered, and those who fell during the conflict are honored.

Speeches recall the harsh realities of war, and the democratic ideals many fought to defend.

Joyful, triumphant singing. America the Beautiful.

A folded flag above the plaque marking the Vietnam Veterans Peace Memorial in Balboa Park.

Names of San Diegans who were killed or designated missing in action during the Vietnam War fill half a dozen bronze plaques.

Flags, flowers and photos. A loved family member.

On March 7, 1971, at the age of 21, David Jesus Naranjo perished in the service of our country in South Vietnam, Quang Nam.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Fun pics from World Baseball Classic in San Diego!

Team USA fans in line to buy merchandise at Petco Park during the World Baseball Classic in San Diego.

Team USA beat Venezuela tonight in an exciting World Baseball Classic game in San Diego! The United States won 4-2 with an amazing come-from-behind victory! Today’s baseball game was the second in a round robin between four international teams– the Second Round’s Pool F.

I’ve got an assortment of fun photos! It was a perfect San Diego evening to take in the sights, sounds, pageantry and great play of what turned out to be classic baseball game!

Fans for the four different teams in the World Baseball Classic's Second Round Pool F could be seen all around San Diego's Petco Park. — Fans of the four different teams in the World Baseball Classic’s Second Round Pool F could be seen all around San Diego’s Petco Park.

Fans of all ages were having fun before the game began in the Park at the Park. — Baseball lovers of all ages were having fun before the game began in the Park at the Park.

Some outrageous costumes and lots of patriotic clothing could be seen all about the stadium. — Some outrageous costumes and lots of patriotic clothing could be seen all about the baseball stadium. And many Padres fans, too!

It's approaching game time. Fans walk up a ramp to the upper level. — It’s approaching game time. Families walk up a ramp to the upper level.

Fans at the World Baseball Classic in San Diego point to the outfield.

Fans of Team USA watch their baseball heroes warm up on the field before the game. — Young supporters of Team USA watch their baseball heroes warm up on the field before the game.

Players for Team USA come out of the dugout for the opening ceremony.

Players for both Venezuela and the United States were given a rousing introduction.

Fans watching the opening ceremony hold up an American flag. — Team USA fans watching the opening ceremony hold up an American flag.

The players for the United States and Venezuela shake hands at the end of the opening ceremony.

The game has begun! It's a beautiful evening for baseball in San Diego, of course! — The game has begun! It’s a beautiful evening for baseball in San Diego, of course! Even some Dodgers fans have come to Petco Park for the fun.

Venezuela is at bat as the sun sets and Petco's lights come on. They were first to score. — Venezuela is at bat as the sun sets and Petco’s lights come on. Venezuela has a great team and was first to score.

As I walked about the stadium, I took a photo of the Chair of Honor. The empty chair honors prisoners of war and those missing in action. — As I walked about Petco Park, which USA Today rated the finest stadium in Major League Baseball, I took a photo of the Chair of Honor. The empty chair represents Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action.

Team USA loaded the bases in the early innings, but unfortunately failed to score.

These fans of Team USA scored, however, on the Kiss Cam!

George Washington was in attendance, rooting on Team USA during the World Baseball Classic in San Diego! And his team won!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk around with my camera! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Fun photos: Old Town San Diego’s Fourth of July!

American flags lead a Fourth of July parade in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

Here come oodles of fun photos! I took them during the first two hours of Old Town San Diego’s Fourth of July celebration! (Sorry, but I missed the pie eating contest!)

I’ve captioned the photos with descriptions. If you’ve never enjoyed Independence Day at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, you’re missing out on a very colorful and patriotic event! And there’s a lot of fascinating history that you can absorb, as well!

During the Independence Day celebration in Old Town San Diego, there were all sorts of fun and educational activities. Musical entertainment could be heard at the main stage.

The Armory Band played music popular in America long ago--patriotic tunes that citizens in San Diego would have enjoyed during the mid 1800s. — The Armory Band played music popular in America long ago–patriotic tunes that citizens in San Diego would have enjoyed during the mid 1800s.

Los Bailadores, performers in period costume, sing vintage patriotic songs like The Battle Hymn of the Republic inside Old Town's historic La Casa de Estudillo. — Los Bailadores, performers in period costume, sing vintage patriotic songs like The Battle Hymn of the Republic inside Old Town’s historic La Casa de Estudillo.

Los Bailadores then lived up to their name and began a few social dances that folks would have enjoyed in the 1850s and 1860s. Their first dance was the Virginia reel.

During the Fourth of July, there were many historical demonstrations in Old Town's central square, or La Plaza de Las Armas. — During the Fourth of July, there were many historical demonstrations in Old Town’s central square, which was originally called La Plaza de Las Armas.

A lady in a bonnet at a spinning wheel was making wool yarn.

Quilters were getting their tent displays ready as Old Town San Diego's Fourth of July events got underway. — Quilters were getting their tent displays ready as Old Town San Diego’s Fourth of July events got underway.

These guys were playing the old Victorian Game of Graces. A small hoop is shot into the air by pushing apart two rods. The hoop is then caught by one's partner. Winner catches the hoop ten times first. — These guys were playing the old Victorian Game of Graces. A small hoop is shot into the air by pushing apart two rods. The hoop is then caught by one’s partner. Winner catches the hoop ten times first.

The San Pasqual Battlefield Volunteer Association had an interesting display, including ammunition that was used in old cannons.

A poster has photos of reenactments of the Battle of San Pasqual, which took place northeast of San Diego during the Mexican-American War.

Of course, you need some tasty watermelon during a traditional Fourth of July!

The center of the plaza became a center of attention as various tug of wars were contested by young and old alike. — The middle of the plaza became a center of attention as various tug of wars were contested by young and old alike.

Later games would include wheelbarrow races.

A cakewalk. Stop on the winning number and you receive a cake! This game was common in mid 19th century San Diego. — A cakewalk. Stop on the winning number and you receive a cake! This simple game was common in mid 19th century San Diego.

Several speeches included one by Connie Gunther, a descendant of early San Diego. The legacy of those early Californios, townspeople, settlers and pioneers live on. — Several speeches included one by Connie Gunther, a descendant of early San Diego. The legacy of those early Californios, townspeople, settlers and immigrants live on.

Are you a descendant of early San Diego? Do you think you might be? There’s a website I learned about that you ought to visit. Here it is. Those with family trees that reach back into early San Diego history can relate their knowledge for posterity and the benefit of others; those who think they might be related to an early resident of San Diego can perform searches and do extensive research. Check it out!

Kids listening to the speeches wave American flags.

The keynote speech was by Tom Vilicich, portraying the 1st Sergeant, Company K, Ist U.S. Dragoons, who fought in the Battle of San Pasqual. — The keynote speech was by Tom Vilicich, portraying a first sergeant, Company K, 1st U.S. Dragoons, who fought in the Battle of San Pasqual.

After the speeches, there was a Flag Raising Ceremony. People removed their hats as Old Glory was hoisted up Old Town's high flagpole. — After the speeches, there was a Flag Raising Ceremony. People removed their hats as Old Glory was hoisted up Old Town’s high flagpole.

Salutes as the Star and Stripes ascends into the San Diego sky.

A billowing American flag on Independence Day! — A billowing American flag rises on Independence Day!

The musicians left the stage to make way for a special public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Diverse folk representing San Diego in the mid 19th century take turns reading the Declaration of Independence. Ordinary citizens in the crowd also took part!

An ordinary American young person reads a few lines from the Declaration of Independence, on the Fourth of July in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

And then the parade began! It wound around the plaza twice. Ordinary Americans were invited to join in!

Represented in the small patriotic parade were Old Town volunteers, boosters, and descendants of early San Diego.

Here comes the old-fashioned marching band!

People in the parade wore every sort of period costume--even red, white and blue attire from our own modern period! — People in the parade wore every sort of period costume–even red, white and blue attire from our own modern period!

That's because ordinary American citizens joined in the fun! — That’s because ordinary American citizens joined in the fun!

This photo shows the good crowd that converged on Old Town San Diego for the Fourth of July!

A scene from the American Independence Day parade in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. — A scene from the colorful American Independence Day parade in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

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Photos of Memorial Day ceremony at Fort Rosecrans.

Flags and flowers are placed where the fallen now rest.

Today there was a moving Memorial Day ceremony at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. I attended.

Here are some photos. Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, located on Point Loma high above the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay, is the final resting place of thousands of American soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, and their families, who served their country with courage and honor. Many who are buried in this hallowed place fought in different conflicts spanning our nation’s history, right up to the present-day War on Terrorism. Because of its amazing natural setting, many say Fort Rosecrans is more beautiful than even Arlington or Normandy. As you can see, it’s a special place.

A Memorial Day rose adorns a solemn grave marker at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.

American flags at the grave markers around the USS Bennington Monument. The granite obelisk remembers those sailors who lost their lives when the warship's boiler exploded in San Diego Bay. — American flags at the grave markers around the USS Bennington Monument. The granite obelisk remembers those sailors who lost their lives when the warship’s boiler exploded in San Diego Bay in 1905.

Love and respect are shown for those in the military who pledged to protect their countrymen, and defend freedom. They are honored on Memorial Day.

Walking among silent rows of white. Many gave the ultimate sacrifice for their nation.

Many old granite markers at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery recall decades and centuries of history.

In memory of the Mormon Battalion whose members made the longest military march in U.S. history of over 2000 miles from Iowa to San Diego in 1847. — A marker reads: “Lydia Hunter died from complications resulting from the birth of her only child, a son named Diego Hunter, the first American born in San Diego. Diego was born 20 April 1847, Lydia died 6 days later. May we honor her and each of those women who served with the Mormon Battalion.” Members of the Mormon Battalion made the longest military march in U.S. history. They marched over 2000 miles from Iowa to San Diego in 1847.

People assemble in front of the rostrum where the Memorial Day service will be conducted at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.

People from all walks of life have gathered together to honor those who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

While people take their seats before the opening and introduction, Marine Band San Diego provides music.

The color guard comes forward. Those attending the ceremony sing the Star Spangled Banner and say the Pledge of Allegiance. — The color guard comes forward. Those attending the ceremony sing the Star Spangled Banner and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Some patriots in the crowd wave small flags.

Veterans salute. Respect is shown for the flag.

The color guard exited along the side where I sat, allowing me to take a couple of good photographs.

Members of a high school ROTC program carry the United States and California flags.

Folded flags are presented to families of fallen heroes. Everyone watching was very attentive and quiet.

An address about different forms of love during Memorial Day. The moving speech was given by Major General O'Donohue of the 1st Marine Division in Camp Pendleton. — An address about different forms of love during Memorial Day. The moving speech was given by Major General O’Donohue of the 1st Marine Division in Camp Pendleton.

Ceremonial wreaths approach the rostrum. Many organizations presented wreaths, including the Knights of Columbus shown here.

Various ceremonial wreaths are displayed in front of the assembled people. Tokens of love, gratitude and respect.

Finally, taps is played while the cemetery flag is lowered to half staff. Salutes included three rifle volleys, a musket volley, and a cannon.

A bagpiper, after playing Lament for a Soldier, exits across the green grass, where the fallen lie eternally.

The ceremony is over, and those visiting the cemetery fan out to pay their respects. The Marine Band remained seated for a bit of concluding music.

A Navy officer walks down a cemetery driveway, which overlooks the channel entrance to San Diego Bay.

Walls around the cemetery contain columbarium niches for cremated remains. Naval Air Station North Island and downtown San Diego are visible in the background.

Walking along the columbarium. Its plaques identify loved ones.

These two guys had bouquets in their backpacks. They are gazing along the Point Loma peninsula in the direction of Cabrillo National Monument.

A deeply moving sight. Solemn rows of white on rolling green hills. Volunteers have adorned every grave with an American flag and rose. — A deeply moving sight. Solemn rows of white on rolling green hills. Volunteers have provided every grave with an American flag and rose.

Member of the next generation among those who came before.

The living walk thoughtfully through Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego.

More grave markers and a small plaque nearby.

The markers in this memorial area honor veterans whose remains have not been recovered or identified, were buried at sea, donated to science, or cremated and the ashes scattered.

After the Memorial Day ceremony, some people linger to view the ceremonial wreaths. The plaque behind the rostrum contains President Lincoln's famed Gettysburg Address. — After the Memorial Day ceremony, some people linger to view the floral tributes and the flag-draped Casket of the Unknown Soldier. The plaque behind the rostrum contains President Lincoln’s famed Gettysburg Address.

Plaque near Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery entrance has lines from The Bivouac of the Dead, a poem by Theodore O'Hara. — Plaque near Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery entrance has lines from The Bivouac of the Dead, a poem by Theodore O’Hara.

The main entrance plaque at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. The flag flies at half staff.

Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery is also a California Registered Historical Landmark.

Several monuments near the cemetery entrance memorialize tragic events in U.S. military history, including ships lost in action.

Flags in the breeze. A cloudy day. People atop the hill gaze down at the unseen eternal ocean. — Flags in the breeze. A cloudy day. People atop the hill gaze down at the eternal ocean.

Looking beyond grave markers toward a hazy blue horizon.

A beautiful old tree rises from the Earth. Life persists.

Youth replaces a red rose that was blown by the wind to the ground. He doesn't realize that someone is watching. — Youth replaces a red rose that was blown by the wind to the ground. He doesn’t realize that someone is watching.

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Do you like to read short pieces of thought-provoking fiction? You might enjoy checking out Short Stories by Richard.

Veteran’s Day celebrated in Balboa Park.

Getting ready for the Veteran's Day Memorial Program at the House of USA Cottage in Balboa Park. — Getting ready for the Veteran’s Day Memorial Program at the House of USA Cottage in Balboa Park.

Today I enjoyed a special Veteran’s Day program in Balboa Park. It was held on the lawn at the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. The City Guard Band of San Diego played some great music, including a composition titled San Diego Exposition March, written by Gunner Tolbert for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition held in Balboa Park. Some other pieces I heard were selections from South Pacific, Victory at Sea, and, of course, the Star Spangled Banner.

I took a number of photos, and ventured into the House of USA Cottage to absorb some of the atmosphere. I thought you’d might like to have a look. Please read the captions for some more interesting information.

The band is ready to play as people gather around the stage in the lawn area of the International Cottages. It's a Sunday afternoon in San Diego's beautiful Balboa Park. — The band is ready to play as people gather around the stage in the lawn area of the International Cottages. It’s a Sunday afternoon in San Diego’s beautiful Balboa Park.

City Guard Band of San Diego plays during a special Veteran's Day program. The band originated in 1880, when members were part of a local volunteer militia. — City Guard Band of San Diego plays during a special Veteran’s Day program. The band originated in 1880, when members were part of a local volunteer militia.

Old plaque at base of large tree in the middle of the surrounding cottages. Dedicated in honor of Arthur E. Vest, Department Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic. — Old plaque at base of large tree near the center of the surrounding cottages. Dedicated in honor of Arthur E. Vest, Department Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic.

A small Veteran's Day gathering in Balboa Park's friendly House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. — A relaxed Veteran’s Day gathering at Balboa Park’s peaceful House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.

Folks at a table in front of the House of USA Cottage listen to the band play patriotic and other popular tunes.

These fine ladies smiled for my camera! Those treats on the table are well known to this blogger!

American flag and a Welcome at the front door of the USA cottage in Balboa Park.

Inside the USA cottage. Welcome home all the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces.

Famous portraits and memorabilia from American history cover walls and fill shelves in the House of USA Cottage.

Playing the piano for anyone who wanders in on another perfect sunny San Diego day. Someone was whistling nearby.

The Stars and Stripes and books concerning Americana. — The Stars and Stripes and various books celebrating Americana.

Playing joyful music, from marches to musicals, celebrating those who've served to protect our freedom. — Playing sparkling music, from marches to musicals, celebrating those who’ve served to protect our freedom.

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Team USA Olympics sand sculpture in San Diego!

Sand sculpture in front of U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge in San Diego shows Team USA and Olympians on the Road to Rio! — Sand sculpture welcoming visitors to the U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge in San Diego shows Team USA and Olympians on the Road to Rio!

A sand sculpture that pays tribute to Team USA and the upcoming 2016 Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro is now standing at the foot of the B Street Pier in downtown San Diego. I thought you might enjoy seeing the finished artwork!

Several days ago I blogged about how the sculpture was being created by Dan Belcher from St. Louis, Missouri and Ilya Filimontsev from Moscow, Russia. They’re both world-class sand masters who will be competing in Labor Day weekend’s big international U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge. This fantastic sand art will welcome visitors to the annual event!

The beautiful result of friendship between American and Russian artists is on display in San Diego!

Banner on fence at B Street Pier near Cruise Ship Terminal promotes the 2015 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge and Dimensional Art Exposition in San Diego.

Team USA, American Olympic gymnasts and a United States flag decorates one side of a sand sculpture at the foot of the B Street Pier in San Diego! — Team USA, American Olympic athletes and a United States flag decorate one side of a sand sculpture at the foot of the B Street Pier in San Diego!

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Lots of photos from Coronado’s Fourth of July parade!

Color guard leads the way during the Coronado Independence Day parade on Orange Avenue.

While this blog post contains a whole bunch of photos, they only represent a small fraction of today’s Independence Day parade in Coronado. This Fourth of July parade is one of the biggest and best in the nation. Coronado is about as apple pie as a town can get, as it’s home to two very important military bases: Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base.

Before the parade began, I walked about checking out the sights, smells and sounds. Hopefully I captured a bit of the experience with these photographs…

Welcome to Coronado . . . A Star Spangled Summer!

I believe these runners raced earlier in the Crown City Classic that started and ended at Tidelands Park, a few blocks away.

Almost everyone I saw was wearing clothing or costumes befitting a Fourth of July celebration!

Someone wrote on the sidewalk with chalk: Happy Fourth of July!

Tent in front of the Veterans of Foreign Wars on Orange Avenue was raising money selling parade-worthy treats.

The Lions Club had a stand at Spreckels Park near the center of patriotic Coronado.

People check out art on display in Spreckels Park.

What could be more American than tossing a baseball while waiting for the big parade to begin. — What could be more American than tossing a baseball while waiting for the big parade to begin?

A shop window had a dog with a red, white and blue bow!

Humans and canines were all decked out for the occasion!

And what could be more American than a hot dog. A hot dog draped by a flag! — And what could be more American than a hot dog? A hot dog draped by a flag!

The businesses along Orange Avenue had all sorts of Independence Day wares and decorations outside.

There is no greater love than this--that a person would lay down his life for his friends. — There is no greater love than this: That a person would lay down his life for his friends.

Kids with flags follow a big wagon full of lawn chairs, as the parade is almost ready to start.

Finishing touches are put on the poop circles. Should a horse poop in your chalk circle, you win a special prize!

Tens of thousands are ready now along the entire length of Coronado. I think I hear the parade coming. — Tens of thousands are ready now along the entire length of Coronado. I think I hear the distant parade approaching.

Actually, it's the pre-parade entertainment. These performers are swirling and dancing to the delight of the crowd! — Actually, it’s the pre-parade entertainment. These performers are swirling and dancing to the delight of the crowd!

A colorful costume gets onlookers in the mood for a big, fun parade.

These guys are the Emilio Wallace Panamanian Marching Band of California!

The Escondido Mounted Posse carry flags. — The official parade has begun. The Escondido Mounted Posse carries flags.

Red, white and blue flowery carts are pulled by miniature horses!

The Grand Marshall this year was Vice Admiral Thomas Rowden, Commander, Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

And here comes the San Diego County tax collector, waving cheerfully to all!

Beautifully groomed long-tailed horses and a poodle strut their stuff down the parade route.

A color guard precedes honored Pearl Harbor survivors.

A veteran who served during Pearl Harbor. He and other fellow heroes received the loudest applause all day.

A Pearl Harbor survivor waves to a crowd. Many were shouting Thank You. — A Pearl Harbor survivor waves to the crowd. Many were shouting “Thank You”.

Applause for the Pearl Harbor survivors as they pass on by for the Fourth of July.

An American military veteran rides his motorcycle down Orange Avenue.

Gold Star Mothers, with signs of loved ones killed in action. The people of Coronado understand that defending freedom can require sacrifice.

Remembering our local fallen. Some gave all.

San Diego Young Marines march. A future generation of heroes.

Reenacting raising the flag at Iwo Jima, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial.

San Diego heroes carry a large American flag.

Here come the Valley Center Rodeo Queens on horseback.

Welcome Home Seth. Your country thanks you.

Welcome Home Rodger. Our returning warrior.

Cool old cars from the Avenue of Heroes.

Now that's an antique. — Now that’s an antique.

Of course, the big parade includes the Wells Fargo stagecoach.

Even the Coronado Lawn Bowling Club was a part of the big Independence Day parade.

Meet the canine Vice Mayor of Coronado. I'm not sure which dog is the Mayor. — Meet the canine Vice Mayor of Coronado. I’m not sure which dog is the Mayor.

It's the Castle Park High School marching band. — It’s the Castle Park High School marching band.

Some medieval knights did battle on the parade route. Seems one has emerged the victor.

Pink flamingos greet the crowd. I wonder if they wandered over here from the Marriott Coronado Resort's flamingo pond. — Pink flamingos greet the crowd. I wonder if they wandered over here from the Marriott Coronado Resort’s flamingo pond.

Coronado is one of the most patriotic places you'll find. Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base where Seals train are located here. — Coronado is one of the most patriotic places you’ll find. Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base where Seals train are located here.

An unrestored FJ-3 Fury from the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum at MCAS Miramar was towed to Coronado for the parade!

Historic fighter jet heads down Orange Avenue as Fourth of July parade onlookers honor the troops.

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