Milwaukee Salutes the Arrival of the National Guard for its 147th NGAUS General Conference & Exhibition

MILWAUKEE – (May 5, 2022) As VISIT Milwaukee celebrates its Meetings, Conventions, and Events Day during National Travel and Tourism Week, the convention visitors bureau announces that the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) has selected Milwaukee as the host city for its 2025 General Conference & Exhibition. The conference is expected to bring over 4,000 attendees to Milwaukee and have an estimated economic impact of over $6.5 million.

“Active duty military, veterans, and those who lost their lives in service are an important part of the Milwaukee community and the Milwaukee story. We could not be happier to welcome these members of the United States Armed Forces to our city,” said Peggy Williams-Smith, president and CEO for VISIT Milwaukee. “This continues a long and successful relationship with the National Guard. From 1998 to 2025, Milwaukee will have hosted the NGAUS three times, more than any other city.”

Taking place Aug. 22-25, 2025 and hosted by the Wisconsin National Guard Association Inc., the NGAUS General Conference is the association’s annual business meeting bringing together United States Army and Air National Guard officers. Conference guests will also include family members, industry representatives, and local officials. Celebrating its 147th year, the 2025 event will be a place for networking, setting the association’s legislative agenda, and hearing from nationwide military and civilian leaders.

Additionally, attendees will enjoy several social events including special outings, receptions, dinners, mixers, and luncheons. Although events are still in the planning phases, some of Milwaukee’s one-of-a-kind venues citywide are sure to be tapped for gathering locations.

“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to welcome thousands of citizen soldiers and airmen from the National Guard Association to Milwaukee,” said Major General Paul Knapp, Wisconsin’s adjutant general. “This conference represents a wonderful chance to showcase what makes Wisconsin and Milwaukee such a special place. With delegations from all 54 states and territories, we’re promoting the professional development, knowledge sharing, and partnerships that make the National Guard a vital part of our nation’s military.”

Whether in our community or in our hearts, Milwaukeeans value the people of our united armed forces. The city offers several inspiring ways for visitors – as well as locals – to honor and support our troops.

Appropriately located just south from Veterans Park along Lake Michigan’s shores in Milwaukee is the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center featuring standing tributes inside and around the center. On the grounds of Milwaukee’s Veteran Affairs Medical Center sits the country’s most intact Soldiers Home as well as Wood National Cemetery, resting place for several local soldiers. And Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport’s east ramp is home to the 128th Air Refueling Wing of the Wisconsin Air National Guard.

Head to VisitMilwaukee.org/Meet to learn more about hosting events in Milwaukee, the city Where Unique Unites.

About VISIT Milwaukee
VISIT Milwaukee is a community asset that markets the destination as a top choice for business, convention, and leisure travel to national and international visitors to increase the economic impact of tourism in the region. VISIT Milwaukee has over 700 members, including hotels/motels, restaurants, attractions, services, and area businesses. The Wisconsin Center District, which is undergoing a large-scale expansion slated for completion in 2024, and Potawatomi Hotel & Casino are strategic partners with VISIT Milwaukee, providing funding support for conventions and tourism programs. For more information call (800) 554-1448 or visit www.visitmilwaukee.org.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.