Jul. 19, 2009 - Best Moments in Parade History
On Friday I had the privilege of playing with the band for a change of command parade. It is our job to support the Wing in such functions, and this was a big deal because it was for the Wing Commander. It was during this parade that I witnessed what I consider to be one of the Best Moments in Parade History. Surely they should make a “Canadian Moments” vignette about it for the CBC.
At the beginning of the parade, after those on parade have formed up, an announcer read the histories of the reviewing officer as well as the incoming Wing Commander. When she was finished she told the spectators, “Please stand for the arrival of the Reviewing Officer. Please be advised that there will be a flypast.” It is good to be made aware of something that normally requires one to cover one’s ears.
Not a full minute passed after this announcement when a large gull flew over the parade square, squawking just as it passed over the dais and the spectators. A ripple of laughter broke out on the parade square and grew until everyone was laughing. That bird’s timing could not have been better!
When all the laughter had settled down the announcer spoke into the mike again. “There will be ANOTHER flypast.” Laughter broke out again as we appreciated the announcer’s sense of humour. I have only been participating in parades for 3 years, but I’ve seen quite a few over the last 25 years with my trumpet player, and this was, by far, the best moment I had ever seen in parade history!
Comments
Jul. 22, 2009 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 3rsandahug
How funny! I love things like that!
Karen
