A sunny morning at Clark Lake was the perfect setting for the Clark Lake Memorial Day parade, otherwise known as Michigan’s biggest little parade.  Following tradition, fans lined Hyde Road to watch the procession travel from north to south.  After reaching Doyle’s, the parade reversed direction and headed north.  The Armed Forces medley in the video was played at the conclusion of the parade by the Columbia Central High School Band.  This spirited version of the medley was perfect music to accompany video excerpts from the parade.  Length 3:41.

The purpose of the stop at the Clark Lake Cemetery was to salute those in the military who perished in service to our country.  The former pastor of Clarklake Community Church, John Reed, led a prayer.  Two members of the Columbia Central Band played taps – one near the entrance of the cemetery, the other, farther back.  Major Walter Reed (Army, retired) placed a wreath on the headstone of one lost in battle.  Phil Krause, a retired chief petty officer, delivered the Memorial Day message in front of the church.  This video combines an excerpt from his comments with the playing of taps at the cemetery.  Length 1:27

Fans arrived by bike, car, golf cart, on foot and by raft.  They lined the parade route and decorated it with their smiles.

In this slideshow, view more fans, both in and out of the parade, and the kids.  At the end of the event, the Lions Club gave kids in the parade a two-dollar bill.

An event like this requires lots of work and coordination.  This annual event is a presentation of the Clark Lake Lions Club.

 

Thanks to Columbia Township Police Department for assisting with traffic.  In the photo, Sergeant Tyler Tefft, and Chief Jay Niles.  Also on duty at the parade was Officer Josh Hudson (not pictured).

 

The Columbia Township Fire Department participated by driving their vehicles in the parade.