STATE FAIR NEWS RELEASE

Each year thousands of New Mexicans and visitors line the streets of Route 66 to take in the sights and sounds and witness the incredible floats and displays that make up the New Mexico State Fair Parade. As is custom, the parade honors notable New Mexicans by naming a grand marshal. With the selection of Walter Wood to serve as the grand marshal for the parade, which takes place on Saturday, September 6, this year is no exception. Wood has a distinguished military service and career for which he is respected in his hometown as well on a national scale.

Wood, who was born and raised in Northeastern New Mexico and graduated from Springer High School, is a retired Senior Enlisted Soldier with 21 years of active-duty service in the United States Army, including deployments to Grenada and Somalia, and service at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Following his retirement in 2002, he has served as a senior Army civilian for over two decades, working in human resources policy, resilience programs, and financial management. He currently serves as a Budget Officer within the Army Staff.

According to state fair general manager Dan Mourning, “We’re pleased to take this opportunity to honor Walter Wood as our grand marshal for this year’s parade.  As a native New Mexican who grew up as part of a ranching family before joining the military, he represents the best of our state’s values—hard work, service, resilience, and dedication to both country and community.”

The New Mexico State Fair Parade kicks off at 8:30 AM and will begin at San Pedro & Central and travel west, through Nob Hill, disbanding at Girard Blvd. This event promises to be a highlight of the fair, showcasing a variety of floats, performers, and community groups, all celebrating the rich culture and traditions of New Mexico.