Department of California Adjutant’s 2008 National Convention Recap

by PDD Bobbie Jo Henry

The 85TH National Marine Corps League Convention was held in Orlando, Florida, from 10 to 18 August 2008.  Your Department of California Adjutant PDD Bobbie Jo Henry attended the Convention.  I planned on arriving at Orlando International Airport about 12:00 a.m. on Sunday morning and stay at the Airport Hotel until Sunday check out time at which I planned to go to the Rosen Center Hotel where the Convention was being held.  Unfortunately, this was not to be.  When I arrived at the Sacramento International Airport, two hours early as recommended, I found my flight from Sacramento to Denver was delayed due to inclement weather (i.e., thunderstorms).  I waited with other passengers and found the flight was delayed again and again at 4:00p.m.  Having woken up at 2:30 a.m. to get to the airport at 4:15 a.m., I became tired and didn’t want to stay at the airport.  So, I went home, slept overnight, and drove back to the airport, early again to catch a 6:15 a.m. flight to Los Angeles International Airport, wait for three hours, and then catch another flight straight to Orlando. 

I arrived on Monday evening about 6:30 p.m. and missed the Early Bird Luncheon as well as the Pirates Buffet.  But my room was saved and I began attending MCL business meetings right away.  At the Convention, I met up with the Department of California Commandant John Vorhies and the Department of California Paymaster Virginia McDougall.  While at the Convention, I was able to continue to attend MCL meetings, attend the Military Order of the Devil Dogs Growl and Luncheon, purchase various needed (and unneeded too) items from MCL Ship Stores and MODD Sales.  I was able to go to a professional horsemanship show called “The Arabian Nights” and other activities.  Of particular enjoyment was my attendance at the Convention Grand Banquet which included on the menu steamed Salmon. 

Also, PDC Virginia McDougall was acknowledged several times during the Convention.  Way to go, Virginia!  The Department of California received the following awards:  National Jr. Vice Commandant’s Citations with a red guidon streamer for 100% Membership:  San Fernando Valley #1277, San Jose #1122, Trinity Alps #1116, Mother Lode #1080, High Sierra #1068, Murrieta & Temecula #1057, Cpl M. Lee Wynne #1032, Mt. Diablo #942, W. H. Nichols #940, Gold Country #885, Monterey Bay #711, Hangtown #697, Inland Empire Marine #696, Central Coast #680, Six Rivers #655, Yolo County #627, Santa Barbara #24, Bill King Modesto #19, Fresno #14, Chosan #11, and General J. C. Breckinridge #10. Also, “The California Leaguer” also received an award.  Citations with ribbons were distributed at Fall Conference in Folsom, California.
 
The return trip home was long but uneventful. All members are encouraged to attend a National Convention.  It’s alot of fun!

Semper Fi - Bobbie Jo.