For the 58th year, the American Legion Post 201 and city of Alpharetta will hold the Annual Old Soldiers Day Parade Aug. 7.

This year’s parade is dedicated to the memory of Vietnam Veteran and service officer at Post 201 Jack Harrison, who died July 15 at age 61.

“As a service officer, Jack worked hard on behalf of veterans to get them the healthcare and benefits that they deserve,” said Marty Farrell, a spokesman for the post.

Farrell will be one of the hosts of this year’s parade, which begins at about 10:15 a.m., starting at City Hall, turning west on Old Milton Parkway and ending at Post 201 on Wills Road.

“The people of Alpharetta, who attended the parade when they were young, like to get their children involved in this community tradition,” he said. “It’s a great way for regular folks to honor veterans, and it’s a lot of fun.”

This year’s parade theme is “Supporting Our Troops…Home and Abroad,” which parade chairman Bob Votta said was chosen to emphasize soldiers coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan.

“Remembering our troops and welcoming them home is a big thing,” he said. “They are making that sacrifice, so this is one way we’re supporting our troops and making them feel like they’ve not been forgotten.”

The day’s festivities begin at City Hall at 8:45 a.m. with a performance by the Alpharetta City Band, followed by a special program at 9:30 a.m. with introduction of guests.

Commanding General of the Georgia Army National Guard Maria Britt will be speaking.

The event is expected to have about 150 units in the parade line-up consisting of marching military units, the Shriners, floats, bands, wagons and horses, classic cars, clowns, prizes and candy.

The parade will end at Post 201 where the celebration continues with entertainment and children’s activities.

The Varsity will serve free hot dogs and Post 201 will provide free soft drinks.

Alpharetta City Hall is at 2 S. Main St., and the American Legion Post 201 is at 201 Wills Road.