There are fewer recognitions in East Longmeadow more prestigious than being named grand marshal of the Fourth of July parade. This year, that recognition was given to Richard Freccero. “I informed Rich of his selection, and he was very honored to be chosen,” said Carl Ohlin, chair of the East Longmeadow Fourth of July Parade Grand Marshall Selection Committee.

The committee reviews candidates who have been nominated by others in the community and chooses a grand marshal who has dedicated themselves to the community and civic service. “Past grand marshals were like legends to me, and I never considered myself in that company,” Freccero said, describing himself as “quite touched.” He noted that his wife, Judi Freccero, and Terry Hallier, with whom he had worked at the high school had nominated him.