Maine broadcasting legend George Hale will be the grand marshal for Bangor’s annual Fourth of July parade.
That news comes about two weeks after Hale’s 77-year broadcasting career came to an end when the parent company of WVOM, Blueberry Broadcasting, fired him from the morning radio show he’s co-hosted with Ric Tyle since 2004. He was on vacation at the time.
Since then, there’s been an outpouring of support for Hale, including a one-night-only return of “The Nite Show” to honor his career.
Now that includes leading Bangor’s annual Fourth of July parade as the Queen City celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The celebration’s organizers, Bangor Fourth of July Celebration, noted Tuesday that it’s a fitting tribute to a Maine legend.
“But before that microphone, there was a uniform. George Hale served this country, and then spent the better part of a century serving this community with his talent, his time, and his heart,” organizers said.
The 94-year-old Hale was the voice of Maine sports for years, including University of Maine sports and stock car races in Unity.
He also served as the chair of the Gambling Control Board and of the Maine Harness Race Commission.
