BRINNON — The annual Loyalty Day Parade drew about 100 people to this south county town to celebrate patriotism.

“If you want to see what America is all about, come on down to Brinnon for this parade,” said Jefferson County Sheriff Tony Hernandez, one of several elected officials who attended Friday’s festivities.

“This is a symbol of what community means, to see the children sing ‘Yankee Doodle’ and see the veterans who paid the price to be free.”

The parade of about 25 floats and participants took about six minutes from start to finish before a 10-minute ceremony that included a pledge to the U.S. flag, a rendition of “Yankee Doodle Dandy” and a presentation of awards.

The Patriot Award went to Home Port Marina.

Also receiving awards were:

■   Carol Nydegger, citizen of the year.

■   Gary Johnson, firefighter of the year.

■   Shannon Fettig, emergency medical technician of the year.

■   Brandon Przygocki, law enforcement officer of the year.

The parade was also intended to be the “inauguration” of George Sickel as honorary mayor, but Sickel, who is recovering from surgery, could not attend.

Members of the Veteran of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxiliary served lunch at the Brinnon Booster Club after the ceremony.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars created the national Loyalty Day in 1921 to show patriotism and love of country.

In 1958, Congress made Loyalty Day a permanent fixture.

It is observed nationwide May 1. The Brinnon parade is held the last Friday in April.

“This is the kickoff for the summer season,” said Jefferson County Commissioner David Sullivan, who was attending his 10th Loyalty Day Parade.

“The kids always bring a lot to it,” he added.

“They have a lot of enthusiasm, and it’s not just about the ice cream.”

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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.