Who goes First in parade line up?

[spd211]

We have recently had a debate in our town on how the parade line should go. I work for the police department and I feel for saftey the police cruiser leads and the fire department follows to surround the participants in the parade.

But some feel the color guard should be at the very front and the police behind them.

I love my country and flag and respect all what it stands for and provides for us but with the safety of my citizens at the forefront of all my decisions I am worried.
Can some one clear this up for me please. I want to this the proper way.
Thank You

[NAVA1974]

A police contingent could go first to "escort" the honor guard, followed by the Police Department, Fire Department, etc. In this way the Honor Guard is technically leading the parade while being proteced by sworn officers. Alternatively, uniformed officers could march in line with the Honor Guard to perform the same function.

Please let us know how you resolved the issue and perhaps send us a photo from the parade.

Nick

*one cruiser, a line of officers, a mounted patrol, whatever your preference

[spd211]

One of my safety concerns is a vehicle being driven on the parade route against the flow of the parade. This could happen if an impaired driver made it around barracades or mowed them down.
My cruiser up front would be the best weapon to stop the on coming vehicle and prevent the color guard from being mowed down.
We are a small town with a small department so man power is usually limited.

[NAVA1974]

My cruiser up front would be the best weapon to stop the on coming vehicle ...

I daresay that following my prior suggestion to use your cruiser as an escort for the color guard would accomplish that.

Nick

[spd211]

Understand.
I think being labled as the escort for the color guard will be the answer to our problem.
I have found several parades across the country who have posted there parade lineups online and they list the PD as the escort to the color guard.
Thank You NAVA

[kathy@nktelco.net]

Should all color guards go first in the parade or can they be throughout the parade?

[flagnazi]

spd21: In our small town. The police cruiser goes first followed by the Colors Team. Not sure of the reason why, but I have always assumed it was safety, same as police cruiser precedes a funeral procession.

Kathy: I have always seen Colors Teams at the beginning of the parade, "position of honor" if you will. In fact, as I think of any event, rodeos,etc., the Flag is always honored first, in front. Hope this helps.