This year’s theme for the Cape Cod St. Patrick’s Day Parade is “Spirit in the Community” and parade organizers say no one encompasses all aspects of that theme like retired Yarmouth Police K9 officer, Peter McClelland, who has been named this year’s Grand Marshall.
This year’s parade is in honor of Yarmouth Police K9 Sgt. Sean Gannon, killed in the line of duty last April. Gannon’s partner, K9 Nero was also shot that day but survived his injuries thanks to the doctors and staff at Cape Cod Veterinary Specialists and the unwavering presence of McClelland by the dog’s side. The retired K9 officer, who trained Nero, never left his side throughout the multiple surgeries and recovery process. McClelland then brought the Belgian Malinois home to monitor his recovery. After several months, Nero was pronounced healed and retired and is now living with the Gannon Family.
This year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 9. It will get underway at 11 a.m. at the Bass River Sports World on Long Pond Drive in Yarmouth.