National convention arrives in Baltimore

National convention arrives in Baltimore

Thousands of Legionnaires begin descending on Baltimore this week for The American Legion’s 97th Annual National Convention. While in the “Charm City,” they’ll take part in various ceremonies, hear from noted speakers and vote on resolutions that will shape the future of the organization.

On Aug. 28, members of The American Legion National Security Commission will take a tour of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. Commission and committee meetings start Aug. 29 and continue through next week; resolutions passed during the meetings will be voted upon by national convention delegates.

The annual parade, a crowd favorite, takes places Aug. 30, followed by an after-parade party sponsored by Soldier’s Wish.

Once the national convention convenes on Sept. 1, delegates will hear from members of Congress, Department of Defense Secretary Ashton Carter, Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald, Medal of Honor recipient Ryan Pitts and others.

“Dancing with the Stars” finalist Noah Galloway, an Army veteran, will serve as the national convention master of ceremonies on Sept. 1.

Other activities taking place during the 2015 National Convention include:

  • A series of employment events for veterans, members of the military and their spouses.

  • A screening of a new documentary about disabled veterans, “Debt of Honor,” on Aug. 28.

  • Legion Family Night at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Aug. 31.

  • A 100th Anniversary Workshop on Aug. 31.

  • A blood drive on three separate days.

Several national convention events, including all three days on the convention floor, will be streamed live on LegionTV. Click here to see the complete schedule.

You can also follow The American Legion National Convention on Twitter using the hashtag #ALConvention and via the Legion’s National Convention Facebook page.