The big man himself made yet another visit to DeKalb County last weekend as Santa hitched a ride with the Alexandria Fire Department during the Alexandria Christmas Parade. Young and old alike lined the streets to get a glimpse of Old Saint Nick, as well as various vehicles, tractors, and other holiday themed entries.

The grand marshals for this year’s parade were three military veterans, including 92-year-old Billy McClanahan, a veteran of the Korean War. McClanahan served as a U.S. Army Private First Class. Other grand marshals included Army Sergeant Dora Stranathan, and her husband Air Force Sergeant Michael Stranathan.

The trio led the parade and made a stop at the stage on the square, where they were recognized for their service by Alexandria Mayor Beth Tripp. Tripp presented the veterans with several gifts, including special recognition for McClanahan who received an American flag donated by State Representative Michael Hale and a Korean War patch.

Following the grand marshals, the DCHS Fighting Tiger Band entertained the crowd, followed by Smithville’s Frosty Flakes who had a dance presentation. Afterwards. many local emergency vehicles, ATVs and motorcycles, and even a horse-drawn buggy and horseback riders wowed the crowd.

At the end of the festivities, drawings were held for various prizes.