The City of Weston is proud to announce Firefighter/Paramedic Richard George of Broward Sheriff's Office Fire Rescue & Emergency Services and retired U.S. Navy Master Chief Petty Officer as the Grand Marshal of the 2026 Hometown Fourth of July Parade. This year’s parade theme is Two Milestones, One Celebration: America 250 • Weston 30.

A lifelong South Florida resident, George was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale and dedicated more than 30 years of service to the United States Navy and Navy Reserve. Throughout his distinguished military career, he served his country with honor in combat operations, humanitarian missions, and leadership roles around the world.

George enlisted in the United States Navy in September 1989 and began his military career aboard the USS Saratoga (CV 60), where he supported Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Provide Promise. After transitioning to the Navy Reserve, he continued his service in a variety of specialized assignments, including Naval Special Warfare Command, U.S. Southern Command and Marine Forces Reserve units.

During a deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2004 to 2005, George provided medical support to Army Special Forces and Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams. He participated in support of 125 combat missions and helped facilitate the capture of more than 400 enemy personnel. His exceptional service earned him recognition as the Marine Reserve Forces Sailor of the Year in 2006 and placed him among the top five Sailors recognized by Commander Naval Reserve Forces.

In 2009, George served as acting Officer in Charge of a Marine Forces Reserve medical unit in Puerto Rico and was selected as one of the Senior Enlisted Leaders responsible for coordinating more than 1,200 joint military personnel during the inauguration of the nation's 44th President.

He later deployed as part of a Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force supporting operations and exercises across 20 African nations. As the Navy's Senior Medical Department Representative, he provided direct medical support for critical missions, including efforts to protect the U.S. Embassy in Tripoli, Libya.

George concluded his military career as the Senior Enlisted Leader for Combat Logistics Battalion 451/453, supporting medical logistics operations for Marine Forces Reserve Command. He earned an Associate of Science degree in Emergency Medical Services from Broward Community College and is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy.

His numerous military decorations include four Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, four Joint Service Achievement Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and multiple unit and campaign awards. He also earned the prestigious Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Insignia and Naval Parachutist Wings.

George has also been a dedicated Firefighter/Paramedic with the Broward Sheriff’s Office since 2003 and has been serving the Weston community over the past twenty years from his assignment at Station 81.

Richard George's lifelong commitment to serving others — both in uniform and in our community — exemplifies the spirit of patriotism, sacrifice, and dedication that we celebrate on Independence Day.

We are honored to recognize him as the Grand Marshal of this year's Hometown Fourth of July Parade.

The City of Weston invites residents and visitors to join in celebrating George's remarkable service during the annual Hometown Fourth of July Parade, which steps off at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 4.