Spectators wave at family, friends and members of the 82nd Calvary Alpha Troop of Lebanon and its Family Support Program. The unit includes many Sweet Home soldiers who are serving a tour in Iraq and expected home around April.

Leading the way are Alpha Troop members, from left, Staff Sgt. Michael Cossey, Staff Sgt. Jededia Powell, Staff Sgt. Tim Fox, and Sgt. John Parsons.

Parade participants prepare to enter the parade route onto Pacific Highway.

Ric Olson of Sweet Home representing the Vietnam Veterans of America Mid-Valley Chapter 585, rides in the parade.

Linn County junior first citizens Andrew Winslow of Sweet Home and Lauren Weerts of West Albany High School greet spectatiors from the back of their float. Jill Mahler, who was named Sweet Home junior first citizen sits to the right of Weerts.