Parade Announcer Is An Experienced Hand

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- Charlie Brotman wasn't even 30-years-old when he was asked to be the announcer for the second Inauguration of President Dwight Eisenhower. Brotman had apparently caught President Eisenhower's eye months earlier during the opening day of the Washington Senators at Griffith Stadium. Brotman had just started as the stadium announcer, a job he held until 1971.

The now 81-year-old Brotman figures someone put his name on an index card that was left with the next Inaugural Committee. Brotman got the call for John F. Kennedy's Inauguration and every one ever since.

Brotman was told early on his job is to be the President's announcer. He keeps the chief executive and those in the stands informed of what parade units are passing by so the President knows whether to stand or sit.

Brotman says he is a volunteer announcer and has never been paid. In fact he says he would have gladly paid for the privilege, if it had been necessary.