I ♥ Faces: My Story in Photos: Patriotic Edition

This week I ♥ Faces is hosting "My Story in Photos: The Patriotic Edition." Click the button below to head on over to check out everyone else's patriotic stories or to find out how to post your own.

On the 4th of July, it is tradition for my family to attend the "Biggest Small Town 4th of July Parade" here in our town and then afterward the afternoon is usually spent with friends or family and then we all return at dark to the park downtown for a huge fireworks display.

My family and I watching the parade.

Watching the parade, I was surrounded by patriotism. From the spectators who stood with hands over hearts as American flags were marched past, to sites such as this little boy waving his flag out the window of a bus.

To me, this photo and those that follow, represents all that is patriotic.

To me the most patriotic part of celebrating our Nation's independence are the soldiers who march in the parade. They always bring tears to my eyes for what they represent. So, to all the soldiers, both here at home and abroad, we salute you for what you sacrifice for your country.

And what better way to end a day such as that, than with a bang such as this:

Proud to be an American!