Old Glory Is Saluted Saturday in 14th Annual La Mesa Flag Day Parade

Saturday morning’s Flag Day Parade up La Mesa Boulevard should come in perfect weather, according to the latest forecasts: early morning fog, then mostly sunny with a daytime high near 72 and a gentle breeze.

At least 80 marching or motorized units—led by the 50-member 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band—will step off at 10 a.m. in the 14th annual event, headed west from University Avenue near the La Mesa Community Center. They’ll be followed by the grand marshals—members of the 1961 Little League World Series championship team from La Mesa.

The Helix Charter High School Pipe Band—the green-kilted unit of bagpipers—will perform, but Grossmont High School’s Royal Blue Regiment will not, according to the latest lineup (attached).

However, marching bands representing Spring Valley Middle School and La Mesa Middle School are entered, along with smaller units from private groups.

La Mesa Middle’s band, in fact, will offer a patriotic pre-parade concert from 9 to 10 a.m. at La Mesa Boulevard and Palm Avenue.

Other youth groups are represented, including Boy Scout Troops 51 and 319 and Girl Scout Troop 6048.

The event comes 10 days before the official Flag Day—June 14—because organizers wanted schools taking part, and they’d be closed by the traditional holiday. Cost of the event, about $15,000, is provided by corporate, club and individual donors—including $2,000 from the recent Pancake Breakfast by firefighters Local 4759.

Other major donors include Drew Ford, O’Dunn Fine Art, EDCO, developers of the proposed Park Station development and three area Indian resorts—Viejas, Barona and Sycuan.

Political groups entered include the La Mesa-Foothills Democratic Club, the Foothills Republican Women Federation—as well as members of the La Mesa City Council and county Supervisor Dianne Jacob.

Equestrian units and service clubs also will celebrate civic pride and our national symbol, along with a 20-foot wide “living flag” carried by community volunteers, according to organizers.

“Spectators are encouraged to dress in patriotic attire and cheer on the participants in this annual parade,” the city says. “La Mesa welcomes all county residents and their families to share in this free and fun event.”

For more information, see the city’s website page or call the parade hotline at 619-667-1172.