The 'Preparedness Parade' symbolized a patriotic movement within the El Paso community that showed local support for World Peace by supporting the United States' entry into World War I. Ergo, the El Paso community was ready to assist with the war effort. The preparedness movement was a national patriotic movement and was not exclusive to El Paso. According to the El Paso Herald June 14, 1916, page 2; "8000 March for Preparedness; Thousands Wave Flags and Cheer - All El Paso Pay Tribute to 'Old Glory on Flag Day; Military Bands Make Stirring Music for the Civilian Marchers; Mayor Lea Leads Parade With His Two Small Sons; Many Firms in Line." Leading the parade was Sergeant Claude Tillman and his squad of men representing the El Paso Police Department; next, Grand Marshal John M. Wyatt and his aides, Lieutenant Eastman and Hecox, both USA; and then Mayor Tom Lea with his sons. Other groups present were: 400 employees from the Popular Dry Goods Company; Civil War Veterans; First Division; Women's Club; the Rotary Club; Doctors; Bankers; and many more.

Postcard depicting a parade celebrating the war effort. The Preparedness Parade was a part of a movement by Theodore Roosevelt to strengthen the military after the beginning of World War I. During this time the United States also supported the revolutionary forces in the Mexican Revolution.

Postcard depicting a parade celebrating the war effort. The Preparedness Parade was a part of a movement by Theodore Roosevelt to strengthen the military after the beginning of World War I. During this time the United States also supported the revolutionary forces in the Mexican Revolution.

Postcard depicting a parade celebrating the war effort. The Preparedness Parade was a part of a movement by Theodore Roosevelt to strengthen the military after the beginning of World War I. During this time the United States also supported the revolutionary forces in the Mexican Revolution.