A Message About Security to all Parade Participants:

As we join together at the 2010 George Washington Birthday Parade, we have an increased awareness of the need for heightened precautions in light of the ongoing initiatives to prevent terrorism. We are fortunate in Alexandria to have a force of Police, Firefighters and Emergency Services workers who care about each of us and who will execute sensible procedures to help us meet the challenges of safety and security for the Parade.

Maintaining this higher level of security is a responsibility all of us share, but as always, the burden for this will fall heavily on our public servants. On Parade Day, February 15, 2010, the Alexandria Police Department will provide a special detail of Officers assigned to the Parade security. Below are listed some additional security measures which will be taken; your cooperation in implementing them is requested:

1. There will be a more visible presence of Police Officers.

 

2. Police Officers in the Assembly Area will be checking the identification of some individuals and searching some packages and equipment. All vehicles proceeding to the Start Point must have a Parade Vehicle Permit and will be searched as they pass. Adults should be certain to carry some identification with them at all times and avoid bringing unnecessary packages or equipment to the Assembly Area.

 

3. The Police will assign rapid response teams to the Parade who will deploy in the event of any emergency and who may require the suspension of the forward movement of the Parade Units. Please be ready to follow instructions and to act quickly if asked to do so.

 

4. There will be a restricted perimeter established around the Reviewing Stand. This area will be readily identifiable and it is requested that only those specifically authorized to do so attempt to enter this perimeter. Again, identification will be needed and searches of personal belongings may occur.

Every effort will be made to reduce the impact of these measures on your enjoyment of this historic event. As always, Parade Marshals and Parade Communications personnel will be available to assist you in each Assembly Division. Yellow vests and special George Washington Birthday Parade hats and badges will identify these individuals.

Thank you for being part of the celebration of the 278th birthday of George Washington!