Woman Snaps Photo of Little Boy That Ran into Parade Route To Help Honor Guard Member
Every 4th of July needs a few traditions to make it feel truly “American.” Most will agree this red, white and blue holiday just isn’t the same without fireworks, meat on the grill and, of course, a local parade to start the day off right.
Cities all over the country get in on the fun as decorated floats ride along star-spangled streets. You might also see a few local cheerleaders or dance troupes, a fire truck and line of officers flying our country’s colors.
In Arlington, Texas — where you can find one of the largest parades in the state — over 50 years of Independence Day tradition brings with it a parade theme each year.
According to the Arlington 4th website, the theme for 2019 was “Happy Birthday USA!” One young man paid his respects for the birthday in the best way possible, too.
Wendy Collins Smith, a parade spectator and Arlington local, snapped the perfect photo of the moment a boy named Josh stepped out onto the parade route.
But Josh wasn’t acting out or doing something disobedient. Instead, he was honoring our country and the color guard officer carrying the American flag.
“The start of the parade and the color guard stopped,” Smith wrote in her Facebook caption. “A child ran out and tied the American flag guys shoe. We need more of his type in the world!”
Smith wasn’t the only one who recognized Josh’s awesome act. His grandfather, Dennis Wiles, also witnessed the moment and captured a photo which was shared in a tweet by the Arlington Police Department.
“Sometimes — the police need an assist from the community,” Wiles wrote. “My grandson, Josh, was called out of the crowd at the beginning of the parade today to tie the shoes for one of the APD Honor Guards. Way to go, Josh!”
This photo has been getting a lot of attention today. JOSH – Thank you for helping our Honor Guard today. It was much appreciated!We needed a little “backup” today and you came through to save the day. @ArlingtonChief Johnson will be presenting his special Chief’s Coin to you! pic.twitter.com/fwL0i32q5d
— Arlington Police, TX (@ArlingtonPD) July 4, 2019
In a separate tweet, Police Chief Will Johnson also praised the young man. “Thank you Josh! We should all be so kind. I have a Chief Challenge coin for you.”
Liftable, a section of The Western Journal, reached out to Dennis Wiles for further comment but has not yet received a response. We will update this article if and when we do.
What a way to say happy birthday to our great country! This young man has set a positive example for all. His service is a reminder of what true freedom looks like.
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