Nine hundred and twenty red-, white- and blue-clad students waved American flags and marched around the school track to the sounds of the Navy Pacific Fleet Band during Thursday's Independence Day Parade at 'Iolani School.

As guests of honor, five Kane'ohe Marines from the Wounded Warriors detachment served as grand marshals, leading the procession in a star-spangled golf cart.

Students from kindergarten through fifth grade followed close behind, wearing patriotic hats and necklaces while waving homemade pompons, flags and signs that read, "Liberty for All," "Freedom is not Free" and "Happy Birthday, America."

"We're trying to teach the kids that the Fourth of July isn't just a three-day weekend. It has meaning to our country," said Assistant Dean JoAnn Stepien, director of 'Iolani's Lower School Summer Program. The day's theme, "Always Faithful," is the English translation of the Marine Corps motto, Semper Fidelis.

Lt. Col. Gregory Price, officer in charge of the Wounded Warriors detachment, introduced combat-wounded Marines Sgt. Joshua Gainey, Cpl. Dale Dunford, Sgt. Kenny Dunlow and Cpl. Matthew Berg.

"These four men are not like the heroes you see on TV," Price told the crowd. "These are true American heroes."

The Wounded Warriors made an impression on emcee and fourth-grader Bronson Gouveia, who was dressed as Uncle Sam for the parade and ceremony.

"I feel very proud for them because they got hurt but they still went through with it, and they only got through because they believed," Gouveia said. "I just thank them for helping the United States, and keeping us safe."

Students presented the Marines with patriotic poems, quilts and pillows featuring original artwork and musical performances.

"It meant a lot to us to see so many younger kids taking pride in our country and having a little respect for the military," Dunford said. "We're honored that they recognize the sacrifices that we've made, as well as all the other military branches."

Also honored during the program was a contingent of 100th Infantry Battalion veterans. Members of the 100th Battalion and 442nd Regimental Combat Team regularly attend the annual parade, which is in its 21st year.

"The definition of a hero really gets distorted through the media and television, and it's good to remind (the students) that the real heroes are those who have sacrificed so much and put their lives on the line so that our families and friends can live in freedom and enjoy this wonderful and amazing country," Price said.

"We ask that while you're enjoying your barbecues and time with the family and fireworks this weekend, that you keep these Marines and their families in your hearts and in your prayers," Price said.