FRANKLIN—Sunday’s muggy, hot weather did not dampen the patriotic spirit of the community as evidenced by those who attended Patriotism in the Park.

For the public’s comfort, the Downtown Franklin Association moved the free performance from Barrett’s Landing to the Regional Workforce Development Center at Paul D. Camp Community College.

The performance by the U. S. Fleet Forces Band is held annually on the weekend prior to Fourth of July; this year’s festivities featured singers showcasing musical selections.

Upon arriving at PDCCC, the band rehearsed and was treated to pizza and subs provided by the Downtown Franklin Association board. As a thank-you gift for their service, each band member received a can of local peanuts.

Gayle Schmitz with Franklin Art and Frameworks prepared a framed patriotic collage as a group appreciation gift to the band.

The Workforce Center was decked out in red, white and blue as were most of those in attendance. Patriotism was rampant — pride in our country and pride in our service people could be heard in many conversations. Each person attending was given a small American flag.

Door prizes awarded were donated by Franklin Art and Frame Works, Warren Myers of Liberty Coin, Sandra Brinkley of Designs by Sandra, Gerry Patnesky of Alphabet Soup, Pam Ellis of Pam’s Tea Room, Debbie Daughtery of New Life Boutique and David Rabil of Fred’s Restaurant.

The Downtown Franklin Association had snacks, drinks and grilled hotdogs.

Each year, a high point of the concert is the tribute the band does for all branches of the armed forces.

A medley of theme-songs from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard is performed, at which time those military in attendance, either active or retired, are asked to come forward and stand with the flag of their respective branch.

As the band members boarded their vehicles for the trip home, they commented on how much they look forward to coming to Franklin for this performance. It truly is what small town living is all about – a free concert, featuring patriotic music, good food and drink surrounded by friends and family.