On March 11, 2017 members of the Carolina Garrison gathered in North Myrtle Beach for the 29th annual North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s day parade. We set up base camp close to where the parade would end to ensure no extra walking after the parade. Frankie Gore showed up with Bojangles Biscuits for the whole crew, thanks so much for that Frankie. Ten members total showed up for the 2.25 mile hike thru the parade route. After we all got dressed it was a brisk walk up to our starting area. We were in position number 85 out of 115 parade entries. The 29th annual Parade had a estimated crowd of 35,000 in attendance. The parade was also telecast on live TV in many different markets in addition to Myrtle beach, it was also telecast in Greensboro, Raleigh, Asheville, Columbia SC,Baltimore Maryland, Columbus Ohio, Cincinnati Ohio, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. The weather was perfect for us in costume as it was in the 50’s and the crowd was very receptive. Many of the crowd wanted pics and would come into the parade route to secure their picture with their favorite character. The interactive nature of the crowd made the parade a fun event. After the parade we headed back to base camp where we suited down and some of our group headed home due to the long drive to attend the parade. Many of the remaining members headed over to the festival party of the parade to eat, enjoy the festivities, and cheer on the Garrisons own Tyler Foster in the 2017 Best Leprechaun contest. And I am happy to report that after a fierce competition Tyler was able to dethrone the 7 time champion. Tyler Foster now holds the title. He has to attend the 2018 parade and festival to defend his title so we plan to once again be in the 30th annual as a Garrison. Please make plans for next year to attend.
Carolina Garrison Members in Attendance:
1. Matt Mascooro – Boba Fett
2. Shawn Cantey – Heavy Weapons Trooper
3. Shanda Haddock – Stormtrooper
4. Tyler Foster – Jawa
5. Mark Sinclair – Stormtrooper
6. Forrest Elge – Kylo Ren
7. Frankie Gore – TIE Pilot
8. Brad Lee – ISB Officer
9. Brian Storey – Imperial Gunner
10.Joel Mathre – TIE Pilot
Handlers:
1. Chad Varn
2. Audie Mecum
