Navy Band Northwest participated in the 59th annual Seattle Seafair Torchlight Parade, July 26.
The Torchlight Parade, one of the highlights of Seafair festivities, is a 2.5 mile trek along 4th Ave.
in the heart of the city. It consisted of countless floats, balloons and a variety of marching bands.
Hundreds of people lined the street to catch a glimpse of the festivities.
According to Musician 2nd Class Christopher Sams the performance opportunity is the
crème de la crème for the Navy Band.
“This is a really big deal for us musicians,” said Sams. “The parade gives us our biggest
audience for the year since it has lots of people lined up along the street, but most of
all, there is media coverage.”
The Navy Band marched down 4th Avenue playing a variety of traditional patriotic scores
including the Navy’s theme song “Anchors Aweigh”.
“As one of the Navy’s most visible and highly demanded assets, our presence at any function
brings pageantry and an impressive display of our nation’s heritage,” said Lt.j.g. Patrick Sweeten,
Navy Band director. “Through our performances we provide positive light on the Navy and its
mission. As Navy musicians we diligently work to always put our best foot forward in military
bearing and in musicianship.”
“I believe our audiences understand and greatly appreciate the time and dedication we invest
on their behalf,” added Sweeten. 
People welled up with smiles and started cheering as the military personnel from each service
branch passed by.
“I appreciate what the military does for us, keeping us secure and making us proud,” said Marissa
Tuney, parade attendee. “I’ve was in the Army and it’s scary to think that without the strength,
courage and sacrifice of our military, we would not have the privilege to celebrate our freedom.
I appreciate what they do.”
Another attendee pointed out how the appearance of Navy band members drew his attention more
than the floats.
“I thought everything about the parade was phenomenal,” said Jasen Vaust, parade attendee.
“I especially liked seeing the military be part of it. That is what really stood out to me.They were
all very sharp.”
“The Seafair Torchlight Parade was very well organized,” said Rear Adm. James Symonds, commander,
Navy Region Northwest. “The crowds were very enthusiastic and greeted the band with cheers and
applause all along the route. It was an outstanding event in all regard.”