06/14/2026
We are thrilled to announce this year’s 4th of July Parade Marshal is Major Wayne Wright! USAF (Ret.)
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Wayne Wright entered the USAF as a college graduate in 1962, received training, and served as a B-52 navigator bombardier. He completed 5 six-month tours in support of the Vietnam War
between 1967 and 1973. During that time, he logged more than 2,000 combat hours across 264 missions, flying out of Guam, Okinawa, and Thailand. While stationed stateside, he also participated in preparations for the nation’s nuclear deterrent mission. Among his most significant contributions was participating in air strikes against North Vietnamese forces that helped prevent the overrunning of U.S. Marine bases at Khe Sanh and
Gio Linh. Wayne firmly believes that the air support provided by B-52 crews helped saved the lives of many Marines.
Wayne was honorably discharged as a captain in 1969 and entered the private sector as a sales representative for E.I. DuPont’s Photo Products Division. In 1972, he was recalled to active duty and assigned to Barksdale Air Force Base as a navigator with the 62nd Bomb Squadron.
Throughout his military career, Wayne continued to distinguish himself through education, service, and leadership. He attended the Industrial College of the Armed Forces for National Security Management, receiving a 2nd college degree, and in 1974, he received the
Distinguished Flying Cross. In 1976, he served as Commander of the 4008th CAM Wing Squadron. He was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal in 1977, promoted to major in 1978, and received a second Air Force Commendation Medal in 1979. In 1980, while stationed at Loring Air Force Base in Maine—his fourth duty station—Wayne served as Chief of EWO Plans and Testing for the 69th Bomb Squadron. His final duty station
was in Spokane, Washington, where he joined the 2nd Bomb Wing. In March 1985, he received the Meritorious Service Medal, and in April 1985, he received a second Meritorious Service Medal, retiring honorably from the United States Air Force.
Following his retirement, Wayne returned to his wife’s family home in Alloway Township, New Jersey, and remained there for over 40 years.
Wayne remains deeply grateful for the prayers and continued support of many people, as well as for God’s protection throughout his military career. He considers it a privilege to have served
both God and country during the Vietnam War and in peacetime service as well.
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