Dark skies and the threat of rain could not keep thousands from celebrating the holiday weekend at the Hicksville Fire Department's 71st Annual Labor Day Parade and Drill.

Forecasters had projected that the remnants of Hurricane Dennis, which had lingered off the Atlantic coastline for a week, would bring heavy rains to the metropolitan area on Sunday evening and Monday as it moved northward. Parade organizers feared the worse as a rain shower welcomed the start of the parade, but drier winds would prevail as the rain quickly subsided and the rest of the parade progressed uninterrupted.

"It was fantastic. I cannot say enough about it," said Nick Brigandi, grand marshal and chairman, of the parade. "We just lucked out for two days with the rain. To be honest with you, we didn't expect to get the parade in, or the drill in. We got it in though and it was fantastic...It really turned out to be a great parade."

Forty-six fire departments from communities throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties and from as far away as Hillsboro, New Hampshire participated in the parade. The firefighters were cheered as they marched along Broadway and through downtown Hicksville to the drill site on West Barclay Street.

"Hicksville is probably the most attended parade and drill competition in the state and we really feel that is because of the community," said Karl Schweitzer, a parade organizer and 18-year veteran of the department. "They really come out and support the event. It has been a tradition here in Hicksville for 71 years."

Schweitzer stated that the parade has become in many ways a rite of passage for the changing seasons. "It is something that everyone looks forward to every year. I remember growing up when it was held at Mid Island Plaza. You looked forward to it because it was the last thing you could do before you went back to school."

Brigandi, who is celebrating his 40th year with the Hicksville Fire Department, stated the Labor Day event is not just for the spectators, but it also offers the firefighters the opportunity to walk tall among the people they courageously protect throughout the year.

"When you have that many people come out to support our fire department and the guys see that they are so proud...When you see your community come out like that you just get chills up and down your spine," said Brigandi. "The people are applauding you...It makes the guys feel so good, it is really touching."

The Drill competition was held the following day on West Barclay Street. Here too, the expected rainfall was a no show, and the day long races when on without a hitch.

Brigandi, who is celebrating his 40th year with the Hicksville Fire Department, said being asked to serve as the chairman/grand marshal for the parade and drill was a great honor for him.

"As chairman of this year's Labor Day Parade and tournament, I appreciate the entire community for its participation in the event and for the support of the Hicksville Fire Department."