BALTIMORE, MD — History, service, fellowship and remembrance came together as the National Montford Point Marine Association, Inc. (NMPMA) held its 61st Annual National Convention, July 8–12, 2026, at the Hilton Baltimore BWI Airport in Linthicum Heights, Maryland.

With support from NMPMA Baltimore Chapter 17, the convention welcomed members, veterans, families and supporters from across the country under the theme, “Pride of Belonging: Preserving Our Legacy, Honoring Every Voice.”

The five-day gathering celebrated the extraordinary legacy of the Montford Point Marines while emphasizing the Association’s continued responsibility to preserve their history, identify Montford Point Marines, locate their descendants and ensure eligible families have an opportunity to receive the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their loved one’s service.

Honoring the Montford Point Marines

One of the convention’s most significant events was the Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony on July 10, where 10 Congressional Gold Medals were presented in honor of Montford Point Marines.

Lieutenant General Melvin “Jerry” Carter served as guest speaker for the ceremony and participated in the presentation of the medals.

Adding even greater significance to the gathering was the presence of Original Montford Point Marines Carroll Braxton, Eugene Groves, George McIvory and Ambassador Theodore Britton Jr. Their attendance provided guests with a powerful connection to living history and served as a reminder that the Montford Point legacy continues through the Marines, their families and those dedicated to preserving their stories.

From 1942 to 1949, approximately 20,000 African American men trained at the segregated Montford Point Camp near Jacksonville, North Carolina, after the Marine Corps began accepting Black recruits during World War II. Despite racism, segregation and unequal treatment, these Marines served their country with distinction and helped pave the way for the integration of the Marine Corps.

Montford Point Marine's celebrating MPM Carroll Braxton turning 102

Service, Fellowship and Leadership

The convention also focused on serving today’s veteran community. The Veterans Expo connected veterans and their families with organizations providing valuable programs, information and resources. The event demonstrated that preserving the Montford Point legacy involves not only remembering history but continuing a tradition of service.

Members also participated in national business meetings, historical programming, leadership discussions and fellowship activities throughout the week.

The President’s Reception and National Queen’s Coronation recognized the dedication and fundraising efforts of chapter Queens from across the Association while celebrating service and leadership within NMPMA.

Queen's Contest

The convention culminated with the Awards Banquet and Gala, featuring Congressman Kweisi Mfume as guest speaker. The evening recognized individuals whose leadership and commitment continue to advance the Association’s mission.

National President Ronald C. Johnson, Convention Director Johnny Higdon and Baltimore Chapter 17 President O’Neal Johnson were among the leaders whose efforts helped bring members and supporters together for the national gathering.

The Search Continues

Although the convention has ended, the work continues.

Across the country, families may not realize that a father, grandfather, uncle or other loved one trained at Montford Point and may be eligible to receive the Congressional Gold Medal in his honor.

The Association and its chapters continue researching military records, identifying Montford Point Marines and locating their descendants. Each Marine identified and each family located represents another opportunity to preserve an important piece of American history.

For Baltimore Chapter 17, supporting the 61st National Convention was an opportunity to welcome the Association to Maryland while strengthening its commitment to ensuring the stories of the Montford Point Marines are never forgotten.

Their courage opened doors, their service made history, and their legacy continues.