I spent about five years in the military. During that time we had a formation nearly every morning. We also marched in formation every time we had a Regimental run or a change of command ceremony. Before each ceremony, we would have platoon walk-throughs, company and squadron rehearsals, and would practice practicing each Regimental or post change of command.
During one mid-summer installation change of command in the Mojave Desert, I recall the loud thwacks of soldiers’ heads hitting the tarmac once every 15 minutes or so from heat exhaustion, as the incoming general droned on about taking care of soldiers.
Suffice it to say, I hate parades.
Imagine my dismay when I learned that a recent Harvard study found that children who attend July 4th celebrations are more likely to identify themselves as Republican later in life.
And so there is my dilemma. Do I take my children to the noise and general discomfort I feel when I go to a crowded parade? Or do I stay home and let my children figure politics out for themselves?
The answer is simple.
I’m staying home.
Reflections of a Rational Republican 
Dear Mr. Grumpy,
You may not like parades but kids do. Leave politics at home and go have fun watching the Army band play.
Here’s looking at you kid,
Santa
I can’t. The wife will take the kids, but the Army ruined parades and camping forever for me.
For some reason, the first comment here was posted under my name, but was actually sent by Chuck. I have a bit more tact than he does, though I agree kids have fun at parades. regards, Mrs. santa ( the real Alice)
Thanks!
a recent Harvard study
I wonder if it isn’t the fact that Republicans are more likely to attend patriotic kinda things. I’m willing to bet that America doesn’t represent the same thing to me as it does to the run of the mill statist.
the Army ruined … camping forever for me.
Sadder words have ever been spoken.
Actually, they have: Google “hemingway 6 word short story”.
Happy 4th!
Thanks, pino.
I was trying to do something today with T&T, but State is more buggy than ever. It crashes constantly…
A comment from Mrs. ROARR-
Considering how danged *HOT* it was at the parade and town 4th of July celebration, I think that my dear hubby got the better end of the deal. Triple digits may not be as bad here as back East, but it did feel like an oven…