The Ninth Army “Arctic Warrior Band” doesn’t sport 76 trombones, but they do have quite a few! They will be leading the “2009 Excali-Bear and the Knights of the Paw" Grand Parade.  The Grand Parade will fill the business district with floats, clowns, kids and music!  The parade begins at 11 AM Saturday morning and follows the route down the Old Glenn Highway, Business Boulevard and Centerfield Drive in downtown Eagle River. 

              The Ninth Army “Arctic Warrior Band” is stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.  They serve the military and public traveling in excess of 30,000 miles each year.  The band provides musical support of all of the military posts in Alaska, including Ft. Richardson, Eielson AFB, Elmendorf AFB and Coast Guard stations in Sitka & Kodiak.

        The parade features a variety of entries, including floats, beauty queens, and cub scouts, Lords & Ladies of the realm, fire trucks, drill teams & kids on bikes!  In addition to winning ribbons in their parade categories, there are four special awards given each year.  They include The Grand Sweepstakes Award trophy that is presented to the entry that signifies the most outstanding contribution to the parade.  The Bill Lowe Community Spirit Award trophy is presented to the entry that signifies the spirit of the community.  The Rosie McDonald Festival Spirit Award trophy is presented to the entry that signifies the spirit of the Festival, and the Judges Choice trophy is presented to the entry that tickles the judge’s fancy.

      Entry is on a first come first serve basis with the parade closing when full or by June 18th, 2010 (Friday). To enter the parade click on application.

Parade Day in all its Glory

9th Army Arctic Warrior Band

Thar be Pirates on Board!

(Photo courtesy of the Alaska Star)