BUTTE, Montana – As a flood of red, white and blue flowed down Harrison Avenue Thursday morning, the famous Fourth of July Independence Day Parade was the perfect reminder of why the city is known as “Butte, America.”

The mining town never skimps on parades, and July 4 is no exception. This year, there were 140 floats: the most in nearly a decade.

Of course, the path down Harrison Street is always led by the Grand Marshal – or more accurately, the Grand Marshals, as Sergeant Steve Honer was honored with that role, along with his trusty sidekick Officer Blue, who recently retired after 10 years of service.

“We've always had the support of the community and it's nice that they're showing me that now. And we can give back to them by being in the parade and everyone being able to see Blue,” Honer said. “They've all seen Blue since he was a puppy until he retired.”

As for Officer Blue's thoughts on his election as Grand Marshal, the black Labrador was, unsurprisingly, speechless.

The parade also featured other familiar faces to NonStop Local viewers, including Darlene Battaiola with her now-completed Frozen-themed float and an utterly enigmatic performance by folk artist Eric Dowdle and friends.

Butte residents also enjoyed the festivities the night before with the annual fireworks display presented by Town Pump, the largest such display in the Treasure State.

The summer fun is just beginning in Butte, America, as the annual Montana Folk Festival is just a week away, starting on Friday, July 12th.