America the Beautiful set the tone for the Irving Independence Day Parade on Saturday.
"It means America. All the flags flying just makes you feel special," said Kathy O'Donald, who has brought her family to the city's show for 16 years.
"It makes you feel good to be a part of it, don't it?"
For others, it was a new experience. People like Kelvin Ramos, who brought his wife and newborn to his first July Fourth parade as a U.S. citizen.
"Being a part of it, for me, supporting the Constitution, supporting the land, the United States, and I'm just proud to be an American and I will continue supporting the Constitution," Ramos said.
It may also be the fist year the organization "Muslims for Loyalty" has been in the parade. For members, making the appearance on our nation's birthday has a real meaning.
"It was a great reaction. People were overjoyed. They were all encouraging looking for our flags and our fliers so it was amazing to see that," said Jari Kahn.
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Altogether, thousands in the diverse crowd waved American flags, collected candy, and delivered a message of loyalty from all walks of life.
