Page 2 - The Military Reunion Network Sept Oct 2017 Issue

Military Reunion Network | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | #militaryreunionsmatter

FROM DESK

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The second annual MRN There was also a serious announcement made at
Educational Summit concluded in late the Summit this year. My conversations, inquires
and official interviews have led me to conclude
June. It was a great success due in part to the that military reunions are critical to our veteran
amazing presenters. Joan Eisenstodt, Crystal community in a wide variety of ways. Our critical
Washington, Michelle Lenz and Bruce Yungman mission at The Military Reunion Network is to help
returned to share their expertise in the breakout you stay connected. #militaryreunionsmatter (see
sessions. Convention Visitor Representatives from page 19)
Visit Erie and Visit Galveston shared best practices
when working with CVB’s. Our guest speakers will This issue of the magazine is dedicated to our
be remembered for a long time to come for their wonderful partners that supported the 2017
inspirational contribution to the event. Educational Summit. Thank you for helping to make
it a success!
We were honored to have Retired NYC Firefighter
Lt. Joe Torrillo take the general session stage to Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport
share how his day unfolded on September 11, 2001.
Every time he tells his story, he keeps a promise to Louisville Convention Visitor Bureau
remember the 343 fire fighters that lost their lives
that day. Joe’s engaging yet humble style focused Visit Erie
on rebuilding both life and country with a sense of
purpose and resolve. (see page 4) Visit Galveston

Our second guest speaker was none other than “Mr. Hip Hop Historic Charleston West Virginia CVB
Bob Hope” aka Bill Johnson. Bill has been a Bob
Hope impersonator since 2002. A self-proclaimed Sharon
perfectionist, Bill’s mission is to share the history of
Mr. Hope’s USO shows through many of the original Sharon Danitschek, President
jokes. He said, “There is an incredible responsibility
that comes with impersonating Bob Hope. You have
to get it right!” What did the attendees think? “He
nailed it!” (see page 10 )

It occurred to me, back in April, that many of our
MRN planners AND suppliers would be interested in
booking Lt. Torrillo or Mr. Johnson for an upcoming
reunion or event. We were pleased to announce
the new MILITARY REUNION NETWORK SPEAKER
BUREAU page on our website. The page is dedicated
to connecting the MRN membership to presenters
that can entertain and inspire. Planners can find
local color guard connections as well.

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