Irish for a day in the St Patricks Day Parade NYC

Growing up in Bensonhurst Brooklyn in the days of Mayor Koch and the Italian American Organization I dont think the thought of marching in New York's St Patricks Day Parade ever crossed my mind. Fast forward 30 years and here I am, the school chaperone accompanying my son's Jazz band (from PA) to march in the parade. Not being raised in NY my son nor any of his classmates realize what an honor it is to be invited. The first parade was held in 1766, ten years before the Declaration of Independance was signed. School colors are purple and white so we should clash nicely with the green. I am going to try to grab some pics from the inside of the parade looking out to post later in the week