Residents brave weather for parade, patriotic program

July 10, 2025 

By David Tuma

The Belton Journal

Bell County residents were out in force, braving the rain as tens of thousands of folks lined up Main Street to watch the Belton July 4th Parade. There were over 200 parade entries. Before each parade, there is a Patriotic Program with speakers at the Bell County Courthouse steps.

“Welcome to Belton. Everybody who has complained about the heat in years past, this day is for you. We had volunteers out working this morning before the sun came up,” said Randy Pittenger, President of the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Grand Marshal of this year’s parade was Bell County Judge David Blackburn.



“It is an honor to be here. We have a Charter Oak Tree North of the Leon River. The first year after the colonies declared independence, the Declaration of Independence was read across the colonies. The freedom we celebrate today is not free. God Bless the United States of America,” said Blackburn.

The spot chosen for the first election in Bell County was beneath a magnificent live oak. It was located about 50 yards east of the log cabin home of William F. Hill and about 200 yards south of where the Old Military Road crossed the Leon River. Although Hill’s was the only house near the crossing, the site was centrally located and most convenient to the few voters in the county.

On that historic day in April or May 1850, three men were appointed judges, and each of the 30 or 40 men present orally voted for five special commissioners. These commissioners were given the specific task of organizing the new county, a task which included surveying it, locating a county seat, laying off the townsite, selling the lots at auction, and erecting public buildings.

“Freedom is something we don’t inherit; it is something we earn every day. We don’t see political lines in Belton. That is unique. You have neighbors who love you here,” said Belton Mayor David K. Leigh.

“I am honored to be here today. The good Lord puts you where you are supposed to be. The people of Belton and the surrounding areas support our soldiers. Today speaks volumes about this community. Soldiers knowing that their families will be supported is important. We are better soldiers because of the support we receive. Freedom is something that should be supported. July 4th isn’t just about fireworks and parades. It is about sacrifice,” said Col. LaHavie Brunson, 13th Armored Corps Command.