In 1965, John Gaddis was asked by the River Parade Leadership to oversee some 50 patients from Wilford Hall Medical Center, Audie Murphy VA Hospital and Brooke Army Medical Center. His work with those patients led to the Texas Cavaliers helping sick and disabled children enjoy the parade each year.
The Children’s River Extravaganza was developed in 1995. Since its inception, this program has given over 20,000 children the opportunity to enjoy an evening of fun and entertainment. Children fill their bellies with warm meals, enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the country’s best parades from reserved riverside seating, and join in the festivities with Fiesta gifts. This parade is truly one-of-a-kind and a special evening for so many.