A parade just wouldn’t be a parade in this area without the Bud Light Brigade.

Grey Eagle Distributors — which recently completed the purchase of the 50-member musical group’s previous sponsor, Illinois Distributing — fortunately has recognized that point.

Last week, Grey Eagle formally announced plans to continue sponsorship of the Bud Light Brigade, which has been continually sponsored by an Anheuser-Busch distributor and has carried the Bud Light brand banner since its inception in 1985.

Its membership of all-volunteer musicians has donated more than $50,000 to local charities and school music programs over the years.

“We look forward to fully supporting these dedicated volunteers who so passionately enjoy performing for the benefit of others,” said Shawn Freeman, Grey Eagle Distributors Marketing Services Manager.

Missouri-based Grey Eagle Distributors announced the purchase of Illinois Distributing last year, acquiring its sales territory of St. Clair and Monroe counties as well as Collinsville and Granite City. In 2006, Koerber Distributing was purchased by Illinois Distributing.

Bud Light Brigade members had been anxiously awaiting word from Grey Eagle as to whether or not it would continue the group’s sponsorship.

During the summer months, the Bud Light Brigade performs at approximately 25 special events around Monroe County the surrounding area.

“The members of the Brigade are excited to be able to continue in the footsteps of the group that was started in 1985,” band member Dennis Knobloch said. “We are also very anxious to begin our working relationship with our new sponsor – Grey Eagle Distributors.”

Knobloch said the band’s first appearance will be in this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Belleville on Saturday, March 16.