Sailors and Marines Participate in Whaling Days Parade

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Maebel Tinoko, Navy Public Affairs Support Element Det., Northwest

SILVERDALE, Wash. (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines stationed at commands around Kitsap County participated in the 38th annual Whaling Days summer parade in Silverdale, Wash., July 24.

Festivities included a "Whale of a Run" four-mile race, Dandy Lions Grand Parade, performances from local entertainers, the Great Kitsap Duck Race and much more.

Service members teamed up with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 4992 and displayed the banners of fallen service members from Washington State. Some Sailors marched with the Bremerton Submarine Veterans association to show their community support.

"These banners of fallen troops mean so much to the families who lost a loved one, and it means so much more when service members are out there carrying these banners," said Alice Dandeneau, president of VFW and Ladies Auxiliary Henry Bryner Post 4992. "It is important to show the community the price of freedom, and I would like to thank all the Sailors, Marines and Soldiers who came out to support us with this event."

Whaling Days is a not-for-profit festival run by volunteers. The proceeds collected each year are donated to the local community through charitable contributions and scholarships.

"I love being part of this parade, and it's important to show our support to the community and honor those who have passed," said Electrician's Mate 1st Class (SS) Joseph Shaffner, USS Seawolf (SSN 21) electrical division leading petty officer.

"I've been working closely with the Bremerton Sub vets for a while now, and it's an honor to meet the veterans and hear their stories about history and what the Navy was like back then," said Electronics Technician 1st Class (SS) Rocky Park, USS Nevada (SSBN-733) (Blue). "The parade is a great opportunity to show the community we respect them and the crowds are always warm and welcoming."