These fabulous people were chosen to be Grand Marshal of the July 4th parade because of their outstanding commitment to Chatham. The Grand Marshal is designated to take the lead in the processional and in the hosting of festivities. As the Grand Marshal is a position of special honor, the nominee must be a year round or summer resident of Chatham and one who has made significant contributions to our community. (Unfortunately our records are incomplete- please let us know if you know who was the Grand Marshal in the empty years below)
2024 – Karl Fehrle, a long-time Chatham resident, will be the Grand Marshal for this year’s Independence Day Parade. Mr. Fehrle is a US military veteran of WWII and a member of the Chatham Band, where he plays saxophone and is well know for his solos on “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World”.
2023 – John Whelan. This year’s Grand Marshal truly represents “Historic Chatham”. He has been a resident of Chatham for over 70 years and is described as one of the “keepers of the flame” as he is always
willing to recount stories of Chatham both orally and through his
columns in the Cape Cod Chronicle. John is the author of the
book “I am Chatham” which is about the people who have
contributed to the rich history of Chatham. He has also served on
Chatham’s Finance Committee.
John will be driven in his own Audi Convertible by his brother.
2022 – Tommy Doane. This year’s Grand Marshal truly embodies the spirit of a “Salty Chathamite”. Tommy has deep family roots in Chatham and does many things for the town such as serving on the Finance Committee. He is a friend and supporter to everyone. He has a deep history and love for Chatham. It is said about Tommy that he always lends a hand but never takes any credit or glory! Tommy will be driven in the parade along with his wife by his neighbor in his own Jeep!
2021 – After much input from the public, the Independence Day Parade Committee has chosen to collectively honor as Grand Marshals this year all medical workers, first responders, and teachers who worked incredibly hard under the extraordinary circumstances brought on by the pandemic. We would like to have one person from each profession represent their colleagues in the parade and ask for your assistance.
2020 – Virtual Parade due to Covid-19
2019 – Ivan Bassett, a lifelong resident of Chatham and beloved fixture in the community. As a signalman in World War II, Mr. Bassett served in every major battle in the Pacific, including Iwo Jima and Okinawa, and won 10 battle stars. After the war, he returned to Chatham, married and raised a family, and worked for the local fire department and school system. We can’t think of a more perfect individual to represent this year’s parade theme, “Chatham Honors You! Service Members Past, Present, Future.”
2018 – Hank Hyora
2017 – Spencer Grey
2016 –
2015 – Naomi Turner
2014 –
2013 –
2012 –
2011 –
The July 4th Parade Committee welcomes nominations for Grand Marshal of the 2025 Chatham Independence Day Parade. The Grand Marshal is designated to take the lead in the processional and in the hosting of festivities. As the Grand Marshal is a position of special honor, the nominee must be a year round or summer resident of Chatham and one who has made significant contributions to our community.
