Oak Hill Sailors Participate in Booth Bay Parade

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Brian Goodwin, Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet Public Affairs

BOOTH BAY HARBOR, Maine (NNS) -- Several Sailors from USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) took part in a town-wide parade in Booth Bay Harbor, Maine, June 22.

For some of the Sailors, it was their first time participating in a parade of this magnitude.

"When the ship's leadership were looking for someone to carry the Navy flag, I jumped at the opportunity because I wanted my first parade to be a memorable one," said Interior Communications Specialist 3rd Class Rebecca Jones, from Gastonia, N.C.

Joining the Oak Hill Sailors in the parade were students from the local schools, the fire departments, and local bands.

"This was amazing to see the bands play Navy cadences while the Sailors were marching to them," said Booth Bay Region Middle School student Nick Burge. "I was throwing candy at the children on the side of the road who were saluting all of them and it was really fun to see."

As the streets became crowded with the town's residents, the Oak Hill Sailors formed up and began marching through the streets of Booth Bay Harbor. They were met with a great reception from the residents.

"We have parades like this once a year," said Daniel Reynolds. "Having the U.S. Navy here was icing on the cake."

Cmdr. David Bauer, Oak Hill commanding officer, sat on the side of the road to watch the civilian populace cheer for his Sailors.

"My crew comprises the finest crew on the waterfront," said Bauer. "I am extremely proud of each and every Sailor of mine and it provides great opportunities for us to interact with the community."