THOUSANDS OF TOURISTS and locals greeted The Salvation Army float with rousing applause at the Waikiki Hawaii Christmas parade. |
BY DANIEL DE CASTRO –
Heralding the start of the holiday season, The Salvation Army took part in the annual parade held in the nation’s favorite vacation destination–the scenic two-mile span of Waikiki Beach.
The Salvation Army float was festively decorated with Christmas lights and featured a six-person brass ensemble that played traditional Christmas carols. The band was also joined by two bell ringers wearing vintage Salvation Army uniform as they stood right next to a red kettle. Thousands of tourists and local residents, applauded heartily as they recognized the familiar red shield that bedecked the float.
“It was very exciting to be part of this parade,” said Major Clarence Orion. “This is the first time that we’ve put together a float for the Waikiki parade and we’re delighted that the people were so receptive. It shows just how The Salvation Army is so much a part of this community.”