The 121^st Rose Parade took place on Friday, January 1, 2010 at 8:00 a.m. and featured ornate floral floats, marching bands from the United States, and equestrian units. The parade marched 5 ½ miles through Pasadena along Colorado Boulevard.

One star leads the Rose Parade each year, who gains the honorable title of Grand Marshall. In previous years this position has been given to celebrities such as Bill Cosby, Shirley Temple, Walt Disney, Regis Philbin, and George Lucas. All of these individuals have made their mark in the entertainment industry, earning them the privilege of being Grand Marshall. But this year heads turned from entertainment and focused on real life heroes.

On January 15, 2009, an Airbus A320 hit a flock of birds on its way to North Carolina disabling both its engines. Its pilot, Chesley Sullenberger quickly decided to land in the Hudson River so that he could save as many of the 155 passengers as possible. When the plane reached the water all of the people aboard the plane climbed out onto the wings and waited for further rescue. Each one was saved.

After this incident Sullenberger rose to fame, his achievements gained him respect from the American public thus making him a hero. In the 121^st edition of the Rose Parade he was given the title of Grand Marshall.

Early Friday morning Sullenberger began his proud ride down Orange Grove Boulevard, and then onto Coronado Boulevard as well. He was greeted with the cheers of America’s people, as he rode nobly down the street on a station wagon.