COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – This year’s Fourth of July will feel different in Coeur d’Alene as the city honors firefighters who died in Sunday’s ambush on Canfield Mountain.
The city is known for its Independence Day celebrations, but this year it’s finding ways to honor the fallen amid the festivities.
Chris Legg normally builds elaborate floats for his kids in the annual kiddie parade on July 3.
“This year, due to the unfortunate circumstances, rather than take the competitive route, it just seemed more fitting and more appropriate to pay our respects to the fallen heroes,” Legg said.
Legg decorated a kid’s jeep to look like a fire truck with a sign encouraging people to “fill the boot” with cash to support the families of firefighters who were lost and injured.
Linda Coppess, CEO and President of the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber, has worked with city officials and fire organizations to make sure the celebrations strike the right tone.
“I think that we’ve struck a really nice balance,” Coppess said.
The parade will include a special tribute. Two riderless horses will follow a banner, signaling a moment of silence during a holiday known for loud fireworks and cheers.
“We will give them some space to walk forward before any of the parade activities happen, and we will have them be honored in that way in a moment of silence,” said Brianna Francis, the parade director.
“I think there’s a lot more processing that will be taking place after this week is over,” Coppess said.
The Chamber of Commerce encourages those who want to donate to visit the Red and Blue Foundation website.
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