Honor Guard Member Says Thank You After White Marsh Parade Mishap

PERRY HALL, MD — A member of the Baltimore County Auxiliary Police Honor Guard is thanking the community after falling ill during the holiday parade hosted by The Avenue at White Marsh. The auxiliary honor guard is made up of volunteers who assist the Baltimore County Police Department, and it was among the first groups of more than 70 marching in the lineup.

A few minutes into the event, the parade was put on pause as first responders came to the rescue.

"Thanks EMT guys for being so on the ball and helping us out here," emcee Scott Davies said, after telling jokes for more than 10 minutes to keep the crowd entertained.

"White Marsh Volunteer Fire Department at work for us here right in front of us," co-emcee Chris Huntington said. "Good job guys. You never miss a beat."

This week the person who collapsed shared a message of gratitude.

"I wish I could find a way to thank everyone who assisted me that day," Jo Duley of Precinct 11 said in a statement shared by The Avenue at White Marsh. "I understand that parade spectators came to my aide (sic) immediately and also was informed that they made sure I had privacy. I am doing well."

Several elements came together to create the "perfect storm," Duley explained.

"I was severely dehydrated and I had not eaten," Duley said. "I love being in the White Marsh Parade and truly wish everyone at the parade a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."

Afterward, officials said she was under observation.

"We are grateful to have had so many first responders there to provide the best care possible," The Avenue posted on its Facebook page Dec. 7 after the parade, responding to comments from those asking about Duley. "We thank everyone for their concern, good thoughts and prayers."

Related: The Avenue At White Marsh Holiday Parade 2019: Watch

Here was the write-up from The Avenue on the incident: "Shortly after the parade began on Saturday, December 7th, a member of the Baltimore County Auxiliary Police Honor Guard needed immediate medical assistance. We have been touched by the number of spectators that have reached out with well wishes and requesting updates on her condition. It is with great pleasure that we share the following message:

I wish I could find a way to thank everyone who assisted me that day. I understand that parade spectators came to my aide immediately and also was informed that they made sure I had privacy. I am doing well. I was severely dehydrated and I had not eaten. As the Doctor said - it created a perfect storm. I love being in the White Marsh Parade and truly wish everyone at the parade a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Jo Duley
Precinct 11