(Norwich Corps Officer Captain Jerry Uttley [AKA: "The Mayor of Dublin"] waves to the crowd along the parade route.)

Norwich Saint Patrick's Day Parade

Paints the City Green!

NORWICH - An estimated crowd of 2,000 "Irishmen" lined the streets of Downtown Norwich on Sunday, March 9 for the City's First Annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade. God and the weatherman fully cooperated and provided a beautiful early Spring Day on which to celebrate this special occasion. There were marchers, politicians, floats, trucks, bands, dignitaries, and plenty of spectators dressed in green, all cheering and applauding along the route.

Salvation Army Norwich Corps Officer, Captain Jerry Uttley road "shotgun in one of The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services vehicles, or mobile kitchens as they are often called. The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services Canteens are a familiar sight to first responders and victims at emergencies, disasters, and special events like this. Captain Jerry commented, "I felt like the Mayor of Dublin. It was fun to wave to everyone along the route and wish so many a blessed day! We have begun a new tradition and it will serve the City well. Everyone was happy to participate and it gives us something of which we can all be proud. It was a great day for the wear'in of the green and a great day for Norwich."

Immediately after the parade, The Salvation Army Canteen participated in a community meal program served at the United Congregational Church on Broadway. No, it wasn’t corned beef and cabbage… it was hotdogs and cold drinks. Thus, a new tradition in Norwich is off to a great start. When people were leaving, they were already talking about next year’s parade! So… may your troubles be less, your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door! Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!