Petersham celebrates nation’s birthday

Petersham Fourth of July Parade grand marshal was Dwight Cooley, a veteran who served in the Seabees during World War II. Cooley, 92, saw action in the South Pacific during the worldwide conflict.  GREG VINE

Butch Woodbury of Orange stands in front of his ‘64 Ford Falcon with his grandson, 4-year-old Jack Windoloski. Woodbury’s car was one of several classic cars featured in Petersham’s Fourth of July parade.   GREG VINE

Ninety-two-year-old Dwight Cooley. left, a veteran who served in the Seabees during World War II, was the Grand Marshal of Petersham’s July Fourth parade. He was joined in the lead car by Roland “Woody” Woodbury, 86, a veteran of the Korean War.   GREG VINE

A group of equestrians was among the units taking part in Petersham’s July Fourth parade Thursday morning around the Common. GREG VINE

Jack Adams, 1, of Shutesbury, was among the younger patriots celebrating our nation’s birthday at Petersham’s Fourth of July parade. Jack was accompanied by his parents, Nick and Brittany, grandmother Jen Berry, and aunt, Jordyn Adams.   GREG VINE

Just a few of the spectators on hand for the July Fourth parade in Petersham, with Petersham Police Chief Dana Cooley, far right, on duty. The festivities continued on the Common with music and food. GREG VINE

A color guard provided by the Marine Corps League Pequoig Detachment 1168 of the Athol American Legion Post 102 waits to step off in Petersham’s Fourth of July Parade. GREG VINE

A decorated “Star,” ridden by Margo Petracone of Barre, was a hit with young and old alike at the Petersham Fourth of July parade.  GREG VINE

Petersham’s July Fourth celebration included music performed by Swift Kicks on the gazebo on the town common. GREG VINE

Paige Irons, 11, of Winchendon, joined Roy Nelson, left, Jeremiah George, and Grayson the goat for a photo op prior to the start of Petersham’s July Fourth parade.  GREG VINE

Paige Irons, 11, of Winchendon, joined Roy Nelson, left, Jeremiah George, and Grayson the goat for a photo op prior to the start of Petersham’s July Fourth parade.  GREG VINE

Petersham Fire Chief Dana Robinson was in the driver’s seat of one of the town’s 1929 Ford Model A fire engines in the Fourth of July parade Thursday.   GREG VINE