National
Independence Day Parade
It
is estimated that approximately
400,000 people saw the National Independence Day two-hour parade in
Washington DC on July 4, 2000, - a millennium spectacular event. The
weather cooperated reasonably well with the mercury only hitting 84
degrees, although the humidity was 69 percent at the time. Of the 72
units, which included 19 bands and a Belgian contingent, one special
red and white piano float with moving keys on either side featured THE
HILLTOP SINGERS TRISH * LINDA * JEANIE singing their own songs entitled
"Liberty's Bell" which they sang in every USO show they did during the
Vietnam War and "Only the Name" - a song recently written and recorded
because of this trip to the capital.
The
crowds cheered and the harmony
abounded as the girls carefully balanced themselves high atop the float
and waved to the masses gathered on Constitution Avenue from Seventh
Street NW to 20th Street NW. The people were there to declare and renew
their appreciation for this land wherein they live. American flags were
abundant and spirits were high as the upbeat music of "Liberty's Bell"
was heard --- 'let their lives not be wasted nor their cause be forgot
- - - for the sound of freedom is the cause we have fought -----'.
As
the float passed the reviewing
stand on the elipse, the girls were singing "Only the Name". Featuring
Jeanie's rich alto voice, the sweet harmonies of Trish and Linda
completed the sound that brings tears to the listener's eyes. The
message is of an American soldier who had dreams of love, children,
holidays and service to his country that all came to an end as his name
is written on the wall and only the name remains of his life.
The
end of the parade featured the
Vietnam Helicoptor Pilots Association members and families - 2500
strong - many dressed in their uniforms of 30-plus years - making their
statement in our nation's capital - our Vietnam veterans have come
home. And THE HILLTOP SINGERS TRISH * LINDA * JEANIE were there to
cheer them on!!
National Independence
Day Parade
directed by everythingforevents.com.