The New Orleans Fire Department, with help from surrounding departments, celebrated the New Orleans Saints Superbowl victory on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010. The 3.7-mile parade through downtown New Orleans drew an estimated one million people.
The NOFD procession was led by a refurbished 1896 steam engine that is normally housed in the New Orleans Fire Museum. Not far behind were numerous chiefs, firefighters, and fire personnel. They were followed by one of New Orleans newest fire engines, Engine 25, a 2009 Pierce Impel.
Twelve floats carried the Saints team and Coaches through the streets, along with 12 marching bands. This was one of the largest parades, as far as attendance, that New Orleans has ever seen. Everyone wanted to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, an experience 44 years in the making.
A couple of FDNY firefighters also made the trip just to be here for the momentous occasion. Schools and busnesses closed early to allow people to attend the parade. Gridlock resulted on many streets from the influx of people, but no serious problems were reported.
It is Mardi Gras season in New Orleans. Who Dat!
