Half Moon Bay Gears Up for Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade

Classic Small Town Spirit Shines Through at Popular Independence Day Celebration

Decorated World War II US Army Air Corps Captain Ray Martini to Serve as Grand Marshal

Half Moon Bay CA (6/29/12) –– Half Moon Bay celebrates Independence Day and classic small town spirit with its popular Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade down historic Main Street.

Decorated World War II US Army Air Corps Captain Ray Martini, a longtime Half Moon Bay resident, will serve as grand marshal. Martini was one of the heroic P-47 pilots that flew over Normandy on D-Day, the day of infamy that turned the tide in World War II. He flew two missions on D-Day, and two more the next day. Martini flew a total of 50 missions during the war and then provided air support for General Patton’s army as they crossed France. His medals include the Distinguished Flying Cross (two times), the Air Medal (nine times), and the World War II Medal with four battle stars. At Half Moon’s Bay’s 2011 Farm Day Luncheon, Martini was awarded the Chevalier Medal of Honor by the French government.

“Ray Martini is a true American hero,” said Cameron Palmer, Co-Chairman of the Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade Committee. “We are honored and delighted that he will serve as grand marshal this year.”

Starting at 12 noon, the delightful, home-spun parade featuring a charming array of creative floats, marching bands, equine groups, classic cars, decorated trikes and bikes, “Pooches on Parade”, youth sports teams, dance and theatre troupes, a Color Guard by the American Legion, and local dignitaries will slowly wind its way through the crowded downtown.

“The Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade is a beloved institution in our community. People come out in droves to get a good viewing spot on Main Street. You can see how much they love its small town charm and tradition,” said Mr. Palmer.

There is a $10 entry fee for individual parade entries; $20 for groups of three or more.

The parade is made possible through the sponsorship support of the Half Moon Bay Beautification Committee and Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival which takes place this year on Oct. 13-14.

For parade information, call 650-703-6299.