SAVANNAH, Ga. – Soldiers with 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade provided a color guard and formation of soldiers for the annual Mayor’s Christmas Motorcade Dec. 4. The soldiers led the procession down Eisenhower Drive to the Georgia Regional Hospital in Savannah, Ga.
Cities across Georgia participate in the annual motorcade which began in 1958 as a way to lift holiday spirit for the patients of Georgia’s mental health hospitals. The Savannah Motorcade Chairman, Mayor Edna Jackson, said that the event is an important way to connect with our community. For the soldiers of 3rd CAB who participated, that was also true.
Leading the more than 50 soldiers down the motorcade route was 1st Sgt. Shannon Carithers flanked by Sgt. 1st Class James Conway who called the marching cadence for the in-step soldiers. Carithers was happy to participate in the event because of what it means for the community to have the military present.
“The people of the community of Savannah do a lot to support the military for the Third Infantry Division and the other branches [of service] collocated,” said Carithers. “It is our distinct honor and privilege to come out here and do something for the community.”