To the editor:

I'm writing this letter in response to the passing of Michael Byrnes. In the Jan. 19 edition of this newspaper, all of the Letters to the Editor were dedicated to Mr. Byrnes, and rightly so. There was also a mention that he was personally honored to be named Patriotic Speaker of the Bristol Fourth of July Celebration in the year 2000. But as Georgina Macdonald wrote in one of the letters in the Opinion Section, "I am surprised he was never honored as the chief marshal of the Bristol Fourth of July Parade, as he was among our most patriotic citizens. He would have so treasured that honor." Beautifully written.

So, if I may, I would like to suggest to the Bristol Fourth of July Parade Committee, that Brig. General, Mike Byrnes, be considered the next Bristol Fourth of July Parade Grand Marshal, posthumously, for 2023. He may be the first Grand Marshal to achieve this honor after he passed on? I'm not sure. But if this honor was never given to someone who has died, let him be the first. He certainly deserves it.

A banner with his name and his picture should be at the beginning of the oldest continuing Fourth of July Parade in this country, which should also include the word "posthumous". This would let spectators know that his contributions to our town and country, will not be forgotten.

Gerry Payette
Celia Ct.