Startz Memorial VFW 8800 canceled its wildly popular Annual Fourth of July Parade today due to concerns over COVID-19.

“We have to balance public safety with traditional patriotism,” Post Commander Greg Brannan said in an interview yesterday.

On Facebook today, June 15, he cited Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines and recommendations from the State of Texas as reasons for the closure.

Spectators typically pack “three to four” deep along the route on FM 2673 in Startzville, he said.

“While this warmed our hearts and inspired personal patriotism, continuing this tradition in today’s pandemic would put our community at risk,” Brannan said.

The VFW and others are working on other potential options for the day, including a flyover.

Meanwhile, planning is underway for next year’s 30th Annual Parade.

“We hope to see you on July 4, 2021 for the parade,” he said.