James J. Hill Parade Celebrates Heroes Past and Present

Every year, James J. Hill Days celebrate local history and the Wayzata community. This year, with parade day landing on the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, the event took on added significance.

Led by retiring Wayzata City Manager Al Orsen, the parade included the Fort Snelling Army Band, several local veterans from WWII to the current conflicts and a survivor of the 9/11 attacks.

In addition to the serious feelings stirred by the parade, there was plenty of levity passing by as well. For example, 100 of the "Walking Westies" barked their way down Lake Street proudly flying the stars and stripes the entire way. 

From beginning to end, there was plenty to remember and even more to celebrate.

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