Master Sgt. Melissa Gonzales will lead the July 3 parade as the city highlights women’s military service and the Mary Edwards Walker statue at Veterans Park.

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - Master Sgt. Melissa Gonzales has been named grand marshal of the Las Cruces Electric Light Parade, the city announced Thursday.

The parade is scheduled for July 3. This year’s theme is “Stars, Stripes and City Lights.”

Gonzales, a New Mexico native, serves as section chief for the Outlaws Recruiting Team in Las Cruces, where she works to connect local youth and community members with opportunities in the New Mexico National Guard.

She enlisted in the New Mexico Army National Guard in 2007 as a motor transport operator and has served in leadership and operational roles, including assignments with the 1st Battalion, 200th Infantry Regiment and the Recruiting and Retention Battalion.

According to the city, Gonzales has deployed in support of international peacekeeping efforts and has led initiatives focused on training, mobilization readiness and recruitment. She also works with schools and community partners across southern New Mexico.

The city said Gonzales’ selection recognizes her military service and the contributions of women in the U.S. military.

As part of this year’s celebration, the city is also encouraging community members to visit Veterans Park, where a newly installed statue honors Mary Edwards Walker, the only woman in U.S. history to receive the Medal of Honor.

The Electric Light Parade is part of Las Cruces’ annual Fourth of July celebration.