Despite previous days of wind and rain, Mother Nature was kind to 200 revelers who came out last Wednesday to celebrate the Irish Wildlife Society’s 38th anniversary of Saint Patrick’s Day. Children and parents, some dressed in Irish green, lined Bayshore Drive to look at the decorated cars, floats and people marching past in the parade. Many cars lofted candy out to the kids, who happily responded.

The parade was led by the Marine Aviation Training Support Group 53’s Color Guard, followed by Oak Harbor High School’s Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps and All Island Community Band, Pearl Harbor Survivors’ Association Cascade Chapter 5 and council members.

“As we pause and reflect on St. Patrick’s Day; for the full blessings of life, despite one-way strife, we are fortunate to give thanks, okay?” said Lt.  Cmdr. Philip King, Chaplain for Patrol & Reconnaissance Wing 10, his limerick prayer reflecting on the road construction on Pioneer Way.

King thanked the spectators for “braving the blustery beach breezes of Whidbey” to show off the green for St. Patrick’s Day. He shared how privileged he felt to express the gratitude of the Navy and Marine Corps community for the great hospitality of Oak Harbor and Whidbey Island. Always a good sport, King kissed the Blarney Stone on behalf of the U.S. Navy.

The event was rounded out with Grand Marshall Mick Donahue giving an Irish speech, and Paul Kuzina leading the crowd in singing “Danny Boy” and “Irish Lullaby.”