HERMISTON — Hermiston High School Marching Band Director Sean McClanahan received notification last week that the HHS Band was nominated by Gov. Kate Brown to march as a representative of Oregon in the 2021 National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C., on July 4, 2021.

The governor’s recommendation was directed to Rep. Greg Walden, and the band will find out at a later date whether they were selected from the pool of nominees.

Marching bands are selected based on overall quality and geographical, ethnic, and stylistic diversity, according to a news release from the district. The nomination process assists to ensure representation from all parts of the United States. The national selection committee strives to have at least one band or unit represent each of the 50 states.

“What a unique opportunity and terrific distinction for Hermiston High School’s marching band,” HHS Principal Tom Spoo said in a statement. “We have outstanding marching band students and a phenomenal band director. I am glad that their work has been recognized.”

The National Park Service hosts the parade and contracts with Music Celebrations International to produce the event. MCI is responsible for selecting and providing arrangements for the bands marching in the parade. Kick-off starts at 8:45 a.m. PST and proceeds on Constitution Avenue between Seventh and 17th streets.

Aside from marching bands, the parade includes fife and drum corps, floats, military, and specialty units, giant balloons, equestrian, drill teams, VIPs, national dignitaries, and celebrity participants.

Following the parade, participants join the audience of the PBS Concert at the Capitol Building, which features the National Symphony Orchestra and one of the nation’s largest fireworks displays.