The annual Modern Day Marine expo will once again take over the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, Tues., April 29 to Thurs., May 1.
“You want to come to Modern Day Marine,” retired Lt. Gen. Chuck Chiarotti, president and CEO of the Marine Corps Association, told Reserve + National Guard Magazine. “It’s not, ‘I have to come.’ You want to come.”
The MCA and Marine Corps League co-host Modern Day Marine, which is the largest military exposition exclusively focused on the Marine Corps. Over three days, attendees can explore more than 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest warfighting technology, from boots to amphibious vehicles. Guests can also attend speaking events on five stages. There, Corps leaders will articulate the vision, capabilities and requirements of the military branch.
“That’s why I don’t like to call this an industry show,” Chiarotti said, “because it’s not about that.”
The wares on the show floor help attendees visualize the future force design of the Marine Corps.
“You can actually feel, touch what’s in the art of the possible,” Chiarotti said.
Marta Sullivan, the MCA’s lead planner for Modern Day Marine, told Reserve + National Guard Magazine that this year’s event will feature special additions to celebrate 250 years of the Marines, including a Heritage Pavilion and the Silent Drill Platoon.
“We are Modern Day Marine,” Sullivan said, “but it’s a nice little look back on 250 years that we’re very, very proud of.”
Other highlights will include demonstrations by the new Marine Corps Attack Drone Team, as well as a Drone Zone. The Corps’ beloved mascot, an English bulldog named Chesty, will also roam the show floor.
This year, planners estimate nearly 10,000 guests will attend the expo. Modern Day Marine is free for current military service members and their families to attend. Other government, law enforcement and defense industry personnel can attend as well, although some guests may have to pay an entry fee. Registration is required.
