Best Military Float goes to 1st SOLRS

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Sarah Martinez
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  A squadron from Hurlburt Field won Best Military Float in the Fort Walton Beach Christmas Parade Dec. 6.

The 1st Special Operations Logistic Readiness Squadron claimed the title of 'Best Military' for their dolphin inspired Christmas float. For the past five years, the 1st SOLRS has entered the FWB parade but not won any category until this year.

"We started working on the float around Nov. 16," stated Mr. David Smart, 1st SOLRS heavy equipment operator. "Personnel volunteered on the weekend to make it come together."

Participants in the parade passed out candy, which was a big hit with the kids and sometimes even the adults. Local residents braved the cold to watch more than 110 floats and spread Holiday cheer.

The 1st SOLRS is comprised of eight flights providing total support to the 1st Special Operations Wing and associate units by meeting a full spectrum of logistical needs. They efficiently supply material and fuels and expert management and maintenance of the vehicle fleet, which ensures an accurate and rapid response. Their mission upholds the wing's commitment to support global military operations.

The Christmas parade route took the float participants down Eglin Parkway, where local residents lined up along the street, and through Irwin Avenue Northeast.

The City of Fort Walton Beach awarded the squadron with a plaque for their achievement at the Fort Walton Beach City Council Dec. 14.

"The parade itself was cold," stated Mr. Smart. "However, to see the smiles on the children soon made the cold go away."