Monday morning, July 4, Independence Day, began with partly cloudy skies, but the sun came out later in the morning as Brownville residents welcomed visitors for the 10th annual Freedom Day celebration.

Parade participants marched down Main Street in mid-morning. There were 24 entries. The Fremont Pathfinders sounded the cannon to start the parade. Maj. Stewart Rinkleff, representing active military families with Brownville roots, served as grand marshal for the parade. The son of Andy and Herb Rinkleff, Rinkleff is a major in the U.S. Army stationed at Leavenworth, Kan. He has served the United States 15 years. His wife, Shelly; and children Sean and Sidney accompanied Rinkleff. They were driven by Dick Stich, American Legion Post 23 commander, in a 1989 McClarion Mustang convertible.

Three other active military personnel who were unable to be in Brownville were recognized: Josh Russell, son of Debbie and Don Wright; Max Mason, son of Debbie and Jim Mason and William (Bryan) Furnas, son of Tyrone Furnas. If you see their families, please tell them how much you appreciated their sons’ service to the United States.
Members of American Legion Post 23, Auburn, served as color guard.
Jo Johnson, who celebrated her birthday July 4, was Miss Independence. Her husband, Merrill, was Mr. Firecracker.

Charles Anderson of the Brownville Historical Society opened the Patriotic Program at Boettner Park by saying that he was pleased with the attendance.
Anderson recognized Boy Scout Wyatt Gauchat on his efforts in building the pavilion at the park as his Eagle Scout service project. The pavilion was dedicated during the celebration.
Jay Tallmon recognized Jerry Colglazier of Nemaha for winning the Ugliest Vehicle Contest, a red, white and blue 1979 Chevrolet pickup. There were three entries. Mallory Brinkerhoff was recognized for having the Best Decorated four-wheeler in the parade.
The Patriotic Award went to Jo Ann Dunn and Paul Fish. They organized the Freedom Day half-marathon, and five and 10-kilometer run-walk.
Rinkleff laid a wreath at the site where Co. C 1st Regiment enlisted June 9, 1861, for the Civil War. 2011 marks the 150th anniversary of the war’s start.
The Nebraska City Apple Corps Barbershop Chorus sang. Their program ended with a medley of songs of the U.S. armed forces. Those who served in that branch were asked to stand and be recognized when their song was sung.
Members of the Didier family attended the celebration. The 1854 Didier Cabin in Boettner Park is being reconstructed.
Various other activities rounded out the celebration.