American Legion Post 24 has always provided Bogalusa with a Fourth of July parade unrivaled for many miles around. But since Capt. James Montgomery, Eighth Coast Guard District, New Orleans, got involved last year the annual celebration of America has grown even more exciting.

This year’s parade will feature, besides a float full of local veterans, one or more 25-foot Coast Guard response boat, two to five Auxiliary boats, the Coast Guard and Navy color guards, a Navy band and a Coast Guard helicopter, unless it’s needed and called to duty elsewhere.

Montgomery and the Legion are also working on a few more surprises, so everyone is advised to keep checking the Daily News for updates. Information on the three grand marshals of the parade will also be published later this week.

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But while the anticipation grows, there are other things local folks can do in advance of Independence Day.

The Legion and its auxiliary are selling T-shirts and “Freedom Bells” so everyone can participate in the parade. People are urged to purchase and wear their shirts and to “let freedom ring” as the parade passes starting at 10 a.m. Saturday.

The T-shirts have the familiar POW/MIA logo, in black and white, on the front and a colorful flag, fireworks and Legion seal on the back. They cost $12 apiece.

The bells cost $5. Both items are available at the Legion Home, on Louisiana Highway 10, and at other places throughout town. For information, call 732-3791.