The Brundidge Business Association (BBA) has named Freddie Turner as the grand marshal of the 2013 Independence Day Parade.

Turner is a Vietnam veteran and also served in Desert Storm. He is quartermaster of VFW Post 7055 in Brundidge and American Legion Post 70 in Troy. He is also a member of the Patriot Guard Riders.

Turner said he is humbled and honored to be the parade grand marshal.

“It floored me when they called and asked me,” he said. “I was reluctant because I’m not sure I deserve this honor.”

Delatha Mobley, BBA member, said there is no one more deserving of the job than Turner.

“I don’t know anyone anywhere who is more patriotic than Freddie Turner or anyone who deserves it more,” she said. “We are honored to have him as our grand marshal.”

The Fourth of July comes early in Brundidge and the BBA is busy making plans for the annual Independence Day Parade at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 29.

Dorthea Dow, BBA president, said that the parade pays tribute to all veterans and honors their service, so it is fitting to have Turner as grand marshal.

“The Independence Day Parade honors our veterans and our country,” Dow said. “It’s a time to celebrate, so we invite everyone to parade with us, pets included. The parade is a good time for groups to show their patriotism and for businesses to advertise. You can be wacky, or you can be formal. It doesn’t matter. It’s just a time to have fun and show your patriotism.”

Dow said parade registration is helpful but not necessary. Parade lineup is at 8 a.m. June 29 at the Wendell Taylor National Guard Armory and it’s permissible to just show up and line up.

“Ride a lawn mower, push a plow. Just come and have fun,” she said.

Dow said those who join the parade are encouraged to show their colors – red, white and blue. And, flag waving is a spectator sport, so those who line the parade route are invited to get involved.

The BBA sponsors the annual Miss and Little Miss Brundidge pageant and invites the “queens” from around the Wiregrass to participate in the Independence Day Parade, as well.

“We have a lot of queens from the surrounding area in our parade,” Dow said. “Following the parade the BBA and our Miss Brundidge pageant winners host a tea for the visiting queens. It’s exciting to have these queens and their families in Brundidge.”

To register for the parade, call (334) 735-3177.