FORT IRWIN, Calif. — Hundreds lined the streets for the 87th annual Barstow Mardi Gras parade, sponsored by the Kiwanis of Barstow. The event is held on the last weekend of October and is modeled after the famous New Orleans Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras celebrations, which are held annually in the run-up to Easter. Historically, the event brings out more than 5,000 spectators to see more than 70 participants floats, cars, marching bands and military-style vehicles and tanks.

Law enforcement, public safety officials and military officials were all represented in the parade, including Fort Irwin’s Commanding General, Brig. Gen. David Lesperance, Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew Lowe, Garrison Commander, Col. Jeanette Martin, Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Fedorisin, 916th Commander, Col. Kenneth Bradford, 916th Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Decker and representatives from the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, MEDDAC and DENTAC.