NEW ORLEANS -- The Montford Point Marine Association announced its 49th Annual National Convention, professional military education and training seminar taking place July 17-20 at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel in Marine Administrative Message 326/14.
This year’s theme is “Preserving the Legacy: Paying it forward by educating, commemorating, and rededicating our efforts." Workshops and briefs for active duty and Reserve Marines at the conference will include a mentoring roundtable with original Montford Point Marines, a leadership panel with senior officers and enlisted Marines, MPMA history and legends, panels and workshops addressing diversity in the Marine Corps, conflict resolution and other topics affecting this generation of Marines.
Representatives from the Department of Veterans Affairs will also brief veterans about benefits and assist Marines with their benefits claims and services. An awards banquet will be held at the conference featuring guest of honor Lt. Gen. Ronald L. Bailey, Deputy Commandant Plans, Policies and Operations. The uniform for the banquet is Evening Dress, Blue Dress "B" or Service "A" uniforms with ribbons and badges.
Conference attendance is open to all active-duty, Reserve and former Marines. Commanders are not authorized to use command temporary assigned duty funding for Marines' travel or conference registration fee. Marines may be authorized leave or permissive temporary extra duty to attend the conference, but will be required to pay their own fees and expenses for registration, lodging, transportation and other expenses. The uniform of the day for Marines attending the PME is service "C" with ribbons. The uniform for personnel attending PME in a PTAD/leave status is business casual.
Conference registration is $35, with additional costs to participate in events where meals are served. Registration and check-in will be open from 7 to 9 a.m., July 17 on the second floor foyer of the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel. For more information, see MARADMIN 326/14.