Hildreth is 2007 Grand Marshal

By Danielle Paine, Reminder Assistant Editor

EAST LONGMEADOW Those who know of the hard work Bob Hildreth has done for this town, would say he deserves a parade.

In a sense, that is exactly what he got.

On this Fourth of July holiday, Hildreth will ride with his family in the annual town parade, serving in the honorary role of Grand Marshal, the town's way of saying thanks for his 55 years of dedication to the community.

"[Grand marshals] basically are just citizens who have through their residency, contributed in their own ways to make the town a better place to live," explained Parade Chairman Carl Ohin.

Hildreth certainly has a long history of serving his town including work with the East Longmeadow Recreation Association, the Brownstone Gardens board of directors, the First Congregational Church, the Loaves and Fishes food program, and the Senior Center Study Committee. He is also credited for beginning the town's tee-ball program years ago and most recently, a golf league.

When asked why he volunteers so much for his community, Hildreth's answer is simple: "Because it's my community and because it has to be done."

"I think the major feeling is 'why me?' when there are so many good volunteers in town," Hildreth said of this recent honor. "I don't mind doing these things, heck, I volunteer to do them. So I really don't need recognition for that."

In spite of his modesty, Hildreth has been getting congratulated from the many people he knows and volunteers with throughout town. He admits to being flattered by the attention and recognition.

"He has been a tireless worker for all of these activities and he continues to do so," Ohin said. "Those are the types of people we've been lucky to have as grand Marshals for our parade."

A group of former Grand Marshals, along with the parade committee, worked together to select Hildreth for the honor. The official announcement was made at the annual town meeting where Hildreth was presented with a plaque.

"Most of the grand marshals have been residents of the community for years and years and they know tons of people," Ohin said. "So it's nice for the community and it adds to the parade."

Even though he is retired, Hildreth's schedule is full of charitable work on almost every day of the week. Being so active is his way of staying healthy and 'keeping his brain awake," Hildreth commented.

"I think the act of volunteering is good for you," Hildreth said. "You can help other people and in doing so, you help yourself."

This year's procession will being at 10 a.m. at Birchland Park Middle School and will end at East Longmeadow High School. Music, bands, floats and marchers will comprise the parade with this year's theme, "Red, White and Blue Forever."