T
he Krewe of Avant Garde hosted their annual Masked Ball on February 15. Ladies and gentlemen dressed
to the nines were gathered to honor military men and women. The evening began with a cocktail hour,
where guests were invited to mingle and discuss the year’s upcoming festivities, which include attending
the Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Parade, the Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade, Krewe of Wrecks
Parade, and the Pensacola Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Priscus Celebration. Dinner was provided by the Pensacola Yacht
Club, followed by a night of dancing.
The Krewe was formed in 1983, because of their desire to show their military pride during the Mardi Gras season,
with a past and present military presence. Krewe of Avant Guard is comprised of the nation’s military officers, wives
and family. Members fly flags of each military branch, with the military symbols painted on the side of their float.
The Krewe is under the leadership of a board of directors composed of ten members, including a president, first
vice president, second vice president, secretary, treasurer and five board members tasked with hosting the year’s
parties. The Krewe has four parties, including an Aloha Party to welcome new members, Holiday Party and Silent
Auction, a black-tie Mardi Gras Ball, and a party for members who ride the Avant Garde float during the Pensacola
Mardi Gras Parade.
photos & story by
Kristina Wright
VIP Pensacola at Pensacola Yacht Club
34 | VIPPensacola.com
Ray Taylor & Linda Hawthorne
Hattie Jensen & John Owens
Brandy Owens & Tracie Polk
Lynn Mott & Glenn Conrad
Sunshine & Dayre Lias
Pam Greene & Scott Wenzel
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