Friday night’s Opening Ceremony and dinner are sure to create an absolutely unforgettable evening as they mark the start of the Annual Marine Parents Conference.
The evening will begin with the opening of the cash bar at 6:00 pm, and for those not interested in bar fare, Starbucks coffee and Tazo tea will also be available. We highly encourage conference attendees to use the hour before dinner to become acquainted with the New Orleans relaxed atmosphere, and to Connect & Share™ with fellow Marine families.
The Opening Ceremony will commence as our Master of Ceremonies, Russ Meade, Combat veteran and Founder of Operation Freedom Ballot, invites everyone to enjoy a plated dinner including fresh salad, a savory main entrée, and a sumptuous dessert. Russ will continue to lead the evening providing a delicate balance between the unavoidable heaviness of war stories and the light and carefree atmosphere New Orleans is famous for.
Gunnery Sergeant Nick Popaditch, aka “Gunny Pop” and author of Once a Marine, is the main event on Friday night. He is a true American Hero and you don’t want to miss an opportunity to hear him speak; his inspirational story is one of combat, courage, and recovery that's sure to move you.
Note: Registration for the Team Marine Parents™ kickoff on Saturday morning will be open Friday evening.
