George Washington was proclaimed “Alexandria’s original Living Legend” as the city held its 101st annual parade honoring Washington Feb. 19 in Old Town.

Living Legends of Alexandria served as Grand Marshals of the parade, with dozens of honored Legends from over the years turning out to lead one of the city’s signature annual events.

“It was a spectacular day for the Living Legends of Alexandria,” said LLA board president Mary Wadland. “The skies were blue and we had about 30 Legends walking beside our amazing float, which was built by Jason and Loren Yates. And we were so proud to have our founder, Nina Tisara, who is 85 years old, help carry our banner and lead the group the entire parade.”

Living Legends of Alexandria honors individuals who have made lasting contributions to the quality of life in Alexandria. Tisara founded the organization in 2007.

Highlights of the parade included the City of Alexandria Pipes and Drums, the First Virginia Regiment of the Continental Line and the Bishop Ireton High School Varsity Cheerleading team.

Mariam Church, a 7th grader at Saint Rita Catholic School, was featured in the parade as the winner of the inaugural essay contest sponsored by the George Washington Legacy Foundation. The Foundation is a nonprofit organization established to support educational and civic activities to increase public awareness about Washington and his legacy. 

The essay contest was sponsored with the support of the Fraternal Order of Eagles 871. Church’s prize-winning essay was titled “George Washington: Alexandria’s Most Famous Citizen.”

“We are so grateful to Sue Johnson and the George Washington Birthday Celebration committee for honoring the Living Legends as Grand Marshals,” Wadland said. “This has meant so much to the organization.”

George Washington riding the signature Hard Times Café horse in the back of his 1941 Chevy pick-up truck.

Living Legends of Alexandria serve as Grand Marshals of the George Washington Birthday Parade Feb. 19.

Brian Hilton as General George Washington waves to the crowd.

The Bishop Ireton High School Varsity Cheerleading team