Jun 13, 2017 3 min read

Canonsburg Fourth of July parade organizers have opted to forego a traditional grand marshal in order to pay tribute to the borough’s fallen officer.

This year’s festivities will be held in memory of Canonsburg Officer Scott Bashioum, who was shot and killed Nov. 10 while responding to a domestic violence call, and in honor of all first responders.

“This is an opportunity for Canonsburg to thank and honor first responders who risk their lives daily to protect communities and save lives,” said Mayor David Rhome in a news release. “It is an incredible tribute to them.”

Rhome has been working with event Chairman Bill Brooks, state Rep. Brandon Neuman, D-North Strabane Township, and Sen. Bob Casey to arrange a flyover for the 55th anniversary parade and celebration. According to Neuman’s office, the U.S. Air Force has sent notification that the event – thought to be the second-largest Independence Day parade in Pennsylvania, after Philadelphia – is eligible for a flyover by military jets.

“I’ve been involved with the Fourth of July (festivities) since the early ’70s. It’s been quite a few years since we were able to get a flyover,” said Brooks. “We really wanted to try our best to get one this year, because Bashioum was retired from the Air Force.”

Brooks said the planning committee hasn’t been notified how many aircraft will fly, but said they are expected at the parade kickoff, around 10 a.m. A single piper is scheduled to play while walking behind a banner honoring Bashioum.

Neuman said the aircraft are authorized to make one level pass at about 1,000 feet.

“It’s not set in stone, but an Air Force flyover would be an appropriate and exciting addition to the Canonsburg Independence Day parade,” said Neuman in the release.

Another addition will be access to Canon-McMillan School District’s stadium. A popular spot for entertainment and prime fireworks viewing, the stadium was closed to revelers the past two years because of renovations. This year, two skydivers will land and musicians will play there.

There is not a final tally of parade units yet, but about 100 are expected. Festivities will be held throughout the day and will start with a Whiskey Rebellion 5K run at 7:45 a.m. The parade will start on Cavasina Drive, turn onto Pike Street and end at Bluff Street. Activities will be held from noon to 6 p.m. at Town Park and fireworks are scheduled for 10 p.m. near the stadium.

Brooks said that, although it is difficult to obtain a definite number of attendees, state police estimate that around 40,000 attend.