Veteran and first responder Richard George named grand marshal for Weston’s 2026 Fourth of July parade honoring military and community service

Weston, Florida – The City of Weston has announced that Firefighter/Paramedic Richard George of the Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue & Emergency Services, and a retired U.S. Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, will serve as Grand Marshal for the 2026 Hometown Fourth of July Parade. The selection highlights a career defined by long-standing military service, emergency response work, and deep community involvement across South Florida.

This year’s celebration carries added meaning, as the parade theme reflects two major milestones coming together in one event. Officials described it as “Two Milestones, One Celebration: America 250 • Weston 30.” The theme ties national history with the city’s own anniversary, setting the tone for a large community gathering on Independence Day.

George, a lifelong South Florida resident born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, dedicated more than three decades of his life to military service in the United States Navy and Navy Reserve. His journey began in September 1989 when he enlisted and was assigned to the USS Saratoga (CV 60). There, he supported key operations including Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Provide Promise, gaining early experience in major international missions.

After transitioning to the Navy Reserve, his service expanded into specialized roles across multiple commands. He worked with Naval Special Warfare Command, U.S. Southern Command, and Marine Forces Reserve units, building a career that placed him in both combat and humanitarian environments. His assignments required adaptability, leadership, and medical expertise in high-pressure conditions.

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One of the most defining periods of his service came during Operation Iraqi Freedom between 2004 and 2005. During this deployment, George provided critical medical support to Army Special Forces and Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams. He participated in support of 125 combat missions and contributed to operations that resulted in the capture of more than 400 enemy personnel.

His performance during this period earned him major recognition, including being named Marine Reserve Forces Sailor of the Year in 2006. He also ranked among the top five sailors recognized by Commander Naval Reserve Forces, reflecting the impact of his work during active deployment.

In 2009, George served as acting Officer in Charge of a Marine Forces Reserve medical unit in Puerto Rico. That same year, he was selected as one of the Senior Enlisted Leaders coordinating more than 1,200 joint military personnel during the inauguration of the nation’s 44th President, a role that required organization on a large national stage.

His service later extended overseas again as part of a Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force operating across 20 African nations. As the Navy’s Senior Medical Department Representative, he provided direct medical support for sensitive missions, including efforts tied to the protection of the U.S. Embassy in Tripoli, Libya.

George ultimately concluded his military career as the Senior Enlisted Leader for Combat Logistics Battalion 451/453, overseeing medical logistics operations for Marine Forces Reserve Command. Alongside his service, he pursued education, earning an Associate of Science degree in Emergency Medical Services from Broward Community College and graduating from the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy.

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His military record includes four Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, four Joint Service Achievement Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and several additional campaign and unit awards. He also holds the Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Insignia and Naval Parachutist Wings, reflecting both technical skill and operational experience.

Alongside his military career, George has served as a Firefighter/Paramedic with the Broward Sheriff’s Office since 2003. For more than two decades, he has been assigned to Weston’s Station 81, responding to emergencies and serving the local community in times of crisis.

City officials emphasized that his combined military and civilian service reflects the values the Independence Day celebration seeks to honor. “Richard George’s lifelong commitment to serving others — both in uniform and in our community — exemplifies the spirit of patriotism, sacrifice, and dedication that we celebrate on Independence Day.”

“We are honored to recognize him as the Grand Marshal of this year’s Hometown Fourth of July Parade.”

Residents and visitors are invited to attend the parade, which will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 4, as Weston celebrates both its community milestone and the nation’s independence.