Grabbing the high fives

Airmen from the 336th Training Group dash for the crowds in the hunt for some high fives during the 77th Annual Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade May 16, 2015, in downtown Spokane, Wash. This parade is the largest of its kind in the country and affords attendees a chance to celebrate those who lift up their community and protect its freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Benjamin W. Stratton)

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Big smiles, waves

Senior Airman Nicole Holland, 141st Medical Group aerospace medical technician, interacts with crowds during the 77th Annual Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade May 16, 2015, in downtown Spokane, Wash. Holland was recognized as the Washington Air National Guard Armed Forces Person of the Year, May 14, 2015, at the Davenport Hotel in Spokane, Wash. The Spokane Lilac Festival recognized Spokane military personnel, Fire and Police Department employees and Royalty teachers during the 77th Annual Spokane Lilac Festival Association’s All City Civic Military Luncheon. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Benjamin W. Stratton)

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Presenting the colors

Fairchild’s color guard marches in the 77th Annual Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade May 16, 2015, in downtown Spokane, Wash. This parade is the largest of its kind in the country featuring military units, veterans, marching bands, community floats, and equestrian and specialty units. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Benjamin W. Stratton)

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Engaging with the community

Chief Master Sgt. Christian Pugh, 92nd Air Refueling Wing command chief, waves at crowds from his classic car during the 77th Annual Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade May 16, 2015, in downtown Spokane, Wash. This parade affords community members an opportunity to remember the sacrifice and service of the nation’s military men and women and respect the rich heritage of the Inland Northwest, past and present. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Benjamin W. Stratton)

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Engaging with the community

Col. Brian McDaniel, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander, and his wife, Deborah, wave at crowds from their classic car during the 77th Annual Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade May 16, 2015, in downtown Spokane, Wash. This parade affords community members an opportunity to remember the sacrifice and service of the nation’s military men and women and respect the rich heritage of the Inland Northwest, past and present. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Benjamin W. Stratton)

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Honoring their heroes: Spokane's 77th Annual Torchlight Parade

Published May 18, 2015
By Staff Sgt. Benjamin W. Stratton
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

SPOKANE, Wash. -- In spite of the rainy weather, nearly 300 Team Fairchild members participated in this year's 77th Annual Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade May 16. The Airmen presented the colors, engaged with the crowds and some sought out high fives in every direction.

This parade is the largest of its kind in the country featuring military units, veterans, marching bands, community floats, and equestrian and specialty units. The event affords community members an opportunity to remember the sacrifice and service of the nation's military men and women, and respect the rich heritage of the Inland Northwest, past and present.

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Grabbing the high fives

Big smiles, waves

Presenting the colors

Engaging with the community

Engaging with the community