NEW ORLEANS –
“I have been in the Air Force for just over six months and I found this opportunity to be extremely inspiring,” said Airman 1st Class Neriah Guerin, USAF Honor Guard ceremonial guardsman. “I got to represent myself, my service and my country professionally, while getting to do what I love.”
The Sugar Bowl sponsors and promotes amateur sporting events, attracting more than 100,000 visitors and generating over $2 billion, which helps fuel economic growth in New Orleans and Louisiana.
Capt. Angele Montfort, the parade’s USAF HG commander of troops, stated that more than 90 members of the USAF HG came together for the performance, which is one of the largest formations the group has done.
“This was my first time leading a formation this big – this is something the commander would usually do, but he entrusted me with the command position,” Montfort said. “When I turned around and saw the hard work and dedication of my troops standing there sharp, crisp and motionless, I felt overwhelmed.”
The parade consisted of floats, bands, marching units and other performers to entertain fans throughout the French Quarter prior to the Allstate Sugar Bowl between the Auburn Tigers and Oklahoma Sooners on Jan. 2, 2017.
“I’ve always watched the bowl games on TV, but being a part of the parade and the other performers was a cool experience,” said Airman 1st Class Jordan Cornelius, USAF HG ceremonial guardsman. “My favorite part was seeing the crowd’s shock and awe reaction to our maneuvers.”
Along with the parade, fans were able to enjoy the 11th Annual Allstate Fan Fest, which acted as the backdrop for pre-game events and celebrations leading to the game.
For more information on the Allstate Sugar Bowl, visit their website at www.allstatesugarbowl.org