By Lance Cpl. Robert Frenke
3rd Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs
OKINAWA CITY, Japan – Amidst a procession of mostly green-clad paraders, the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force Band's tightly-formed ranks of red, white, blue and khaki stood out during the 2nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade along Chuo Park Avenue near Kadena Air Base, March 15.
The Marines performed in front of hundreds of spectators who gathered for the weekend St. Patrick's Day celebration.
St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, who brought Christianity to the country in the 5th century. It is widely believed he died on March 17, and people all over the world celebrate his life on that date.
"I thought it was great seeing (the 3rd MEF Band) come out and perform, doing what they do best," said Lance Cpl. Jimmy Drennan, a motor transportation operator with 7th Communications Battalion, 3rd MEF Headquarters Group, who attended the celebration.
Chuo Park Avenue, which is a popular street known for its many bars, restaurants and retail stores, closed to vehicle traffic from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. for the parade. Paddy Mac's Irish Pub and the Chuo Park Avenue business community hosted the event.
Martin McIntyre, owner of Paddy Mac's Irish Pub, led the parade down the street.
Vendors provided green beverages – including slushies and beer – and Irish food and many local foods.
Other performers in the parade included the 'What's Up' Akemi Dance School, the Misato High School Band and Manly Slough on bagpipes.
"This is mine and my daughter's first time seeing this parade," said Jin Meku, a reporter with Japan Times. "This parade is new to the Okinawan people. It was very interesting."
Following the parade, spectators made their way to the main stage for live Irish and Okinawan music. Performers included Irish music bands Yonamine-san, The Islanders, The Explode, an Okinawan Music Band Shima Gais among other bands.
The stage show also included a clown show and demonstrations of karate and kendo.
The St. Patrick's Day celebration continued throughout the weekend at Paddy Mac's, with live performances by local bands.
| Date Taken: |
03.17.2008 |
| Date Posted: |
03.25.2008 22:25 |
| Story ID: |
17747 |
| Location: |
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| Web Views: |
115 |
| Downloads: |
68 |
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