Connecticut’s only Labor Day Parade was a big hit as always with thousands of viewers lining the parade route from the famous flagpole, down Rt. 25 and back to Church Hill Rd.

Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.

The annual event lasts nearly two and one half hours as floats, bands, town sports teams passed by eager onlookers. The 2nd Governors Horse Guard, based in Newtown proudly passed by the cheering crowd. The Horse guard is a state militia unit which technically a part of the U.S. Cavalry.

Grand Marshal Monsignor Robert Weiss, pastor of St. Rose of Lima Church in Newtown drove the route in a vintage Stanley Steamer an antique steam powered automobile

This being the unofficial start of the election campaign season, Connecticut’s politicians and political hopefuls made sure they were seen waving to the crowds. In a display of bi-partisanship, Governor Lamont took a moment to pose with Republican State Senator Tony Hwang whose district includes Newtown.

Above, right: One of the pilots who flys for the New Milford Police Department waves to the crowd below. NMPD Deputy Chief Wilcoxson responded to a request from Newtown PD for a flyover by New Milford's police helicopter, which they incorporated into a training session. The pilot was Mr. Tom O'Halloran who is ex-military and currently an airline pilot and instructor for the the NMPD Mr. O'Halloran is currently training an NMPD officer. That officer was also at the controls, co-pilot in training Lt. Earl Wheeler, patrol division commander. The large black object on the nose of the helicopter is a forward looking infrared sensor which can detect people or animals in total darkness.

The street in town were adorned with patriotic decorations and many of the homes were hosting Labor Day Parties to view the parade.

Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.

The local VFW made sure Old Glory waved proudly from their float, decorated with lots of red, white and blue.

A lovely young woman made sure to hand out American flags to those who reached out for one.

The children are always amazed by the sights and sounds of the marchers and bands. Above, right, Monsignor Robert Weiss, pastor of St. Rose of Lima Church in Newtown, the parade Grand Marshal.