WAUKESHA, Wis. — Downtown Waukesha was packed with people excited to celebrate Independence Day on Tuesday.

There was a sea of red, white and blue as the community cheered on the different floats making its way down main street.

For Mary Westphal, her favorite part of the parade is getting to watch her grandkids enjoy the parade along with the different military vehicles.

“Seeing the military vehicles and the people who have devoted their lives to taking care of us,” said Westphal.

She said it’s important to remember what the Fourth of July is all about and to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the U.S.

“I grew up during the Vietnam War era and I lost classmates, so it’s important,” said Westphal.

This is something Gary Zinn agrees with.

“I love seeing everyone stand for the flag showing the young kids there is respect for the flags and it’s just a good time,” said Zinn.

Zinn said he felt a strong sense of community, especially after the Christmas parade in 2021, where Darell Brooks drove through the parade, killing six. He’s hopeful the Waukesha community will continue leaning on each other during events like this.