SCV Camp 1524 Dragoons Participate in the Prattville Christmas Parade

The Dragoons had another splendid participation in the Prattville Christmas parade Friday night December 1 with the crowds cheering and enjoying the Camp 1524 eye catching entry. As usual,  the camp's banner was out front with season's greetings and SCV logo emblazoned, a float with Christmas tree and plenty of lights and tinsel, an array of Confederate flags including the SCV banner with the Alabama state flag posted on the front and three bike riders; two from the Mechanized Cavalry (Corporal Bonzo and Dr. Chop Chop) and one, Don Owens, from Camp 1524. Several participants were in period dress which added much splendor to the evening and the ladies were asked for their photographs with a number of spectators.

The Dragoons entry was certainly one of the most popular entries in the parade with many spectators taking photos and extending applause and cheers. Commander Waldo worked with the city to revise some restrictive parade rules and allowed the Dragoons to participate as normally with the period flags and full compliment of float and walkers with the addition of the roaring Harleys.  Thanks to all Dragoons who participated to help make a good showing, especially non Dragoons including Butch and Pat Godwin, Mr. and Mrs. Scotty Myers, the Mechanized Cavalry riders, and Gene Darby; Shannon Fontaine supported along the parade route hoisting his own Battle Flag in front of city hall while spectating.  Dragoons included Adjutant Sutherland and Colby Carlock carrying the banner in front, Commander Waldo with wife and children in the truck pulling the float, compatriot Josh Stover and kids with Tyrone Crowley in period dress riding on the float and Bill Gill, Ryan King, Quartermaster Bill Myrick, 1st Lt Harold Grooms acting as spotters protecting the spectators from getting too close to the truck and trailer. 

The city only approved candy and “Christmas trinkets” as throws, so the Dragoons had a special Christmas ornament coin made with the Battle Flag on a candy cane staff on one side and a Christmas wreath on the other exclaiming "Christmas in Dixie" and "Confederate Seasons Greetings". These were very popular with the spectators and the participants. The camp had a total participation of a couple dozen with the Dragoons entry and other members present but obligated to other organizations on this evening.