Women Marines Association

2016 Convention and Professional Development Conference

21-26 July 2016

Marines from all eras and areas will be coming to Portland to celebrate all generations of service. Those who attend will experience our camaraderie, they will meet those who open the doors for our Marines today and our future trailblazers.

Portland is known for so many things! From being a great town for beer, weirdness, cheap food, funky neighborhoods, forest hikes and much more Portland is a perfect choice for the 2016 WMA convention.  Did you know that in Portland alone there are over 30 breweries? Want to see a town in style. Take your pick the shuttle from the hotel will take you into the city where you can catch a bus, a trolley, walk or rent a bike.

Portland is not only renowned for its food but is famous for its food carts. There are plenty of places to eat around the hotel as well. Within walking distance, you can find Taco Bell, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Burger King, Bradley’s Bar and Grill, Boomers BBQ and more. Need a coffee fix then walk yourself over to Starbucks. The shuttle (free) from the hotel will take you to the restaurants that will suit your every taste.

There is no shortage of beauty in Portland. From the hotel deck you can see Mt Hood while enjoying a nightcap or herbal tea. Take a trip to see Multnomah Falls and the gardens. Love roses well you are in the right spot. Here you will find the International Rose Test garden, Japanese Rose gardens, and several gardens and parks to visit. Willamette Valley is a great trip as well.  The Grotto-National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother has been described as a must see from travelers all over the world.

Your visit to Portland is more than just a mini vacation. It is the time to conduct our business as an organization. Be sure to attend the Business meetings and voice your opinions and vote on pending Bylaws and Standing Rule changes. Check out the schedule of events that will show you the various workshops and events to give you a better understanding of you VA benefits as well as other subjects.

We will take a moment to honor our Fallen. Our women who have gone before us and are guarding the gates. The solemn ceremony honors their service to our country and their dedication as members of WMA. We hope all will come to celebrate their lives.

Are you there representing your chapter? Be sure to attend the 1VP and Chapter President meeting. A great place to ask questions about your chapter and how to make them stronger and active. Let us help you build for your future.

The Recognition and Awards Ceremony will highlight the good things that our chapters are doing from their newsletters to their volunteer efforts. Of course the best is saved for last when the winners of the Broe Award are announced. All in all every contribution that shows what we stand for whether a chapter puts in an entry is important.

The Rose Bowl for those who come early is a great time to greet your friends and make new ones. You won’t want to miss this event if you come on Thursday. Be in awe at the Opening Banquet, the flag ceremony and announcing of the National Service Award for our outstanding members. Another you don’t want to miss event is the Installation Ceremony. Here your new slate of officers for 2016 – 2018 board members are installed and take their oath of office to serve the WMA membership.  Then we follow-up that evening with our closing ceremony as we call an end to our convention.

Last but not least is the fantastic hospitality that is provided by our Loyal Escorts. I am sure they will provide a great time for all of you at the this convention. Come enjoy the camaraderie.  Do a little dancing, have a drink or two and let your hair down all in the comfort of the hotel. Bring a few extra dollars for the raffles too. The hospitality House is how the Loyal escorts raise their money!

There is something for everyone in Portland. Come and enjoy all that is offered. Spend time with our WWI members and learn our history first hand. Meet our active duty and hear how much the Corps has changed since you enlisted. Experience the Esprit of Generations of Marines.

WHEN: July 21 – July 26, 2016
WHERE: Red Lion Hotel Jantzen Beach
MORE INFO: Convention@womenmarines.org

More information including sponsor opportunities and the schedule of events is located at WMA Website.