Frederick and Alline Reese have been named grand marshals for Selma’s Christmas parade.

Selma Mayor George Evans announced the decision Tuesday. The Reeses will lead the Dec. 6 parade, which begins at 10 a.m. at the corner of Washington Street and Water Avenue.

Evans and the parade committee arrived at their decision to select the longtime Selma couple quickly.

“I think this will be a prime time as we go into the 50th celebration of the 1965 civil rights marches to think of them and congratulate them for their achievement,” Evans said.

Reese coordinated several demonstrations meant to bring attention to the injustices that were being committed against black people. He also signed the invitation for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference to visit Selma and advocate for voting rights.

Alline, who has supported her husband through some of the most difficult times of the Civil Rights Era, said the couple was pleased to join a parade they have watched for years.

“We’re excited,” Alline said. “We were surprised [Mayor Evans] asked us.”

For Frederick, the honor speaks volumes to how far the community has come. He credits God for all his success.

“It’s my privilege to have lead the 1965 voting rights march,” Frederick said. “Each time that this time of year comes we think about the sacrifices that have been made by many people and the type violence that we have encountered.”

Reese was inducted this fall into the Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame.