Iwo Jima Association of America 80th Commemoration Banquet
Crystal City, VA
February 22, 2025
Maryland Gold Star Mothers were honored to be invited to the Iwo Jima
Association of America’s (IJAA) 80th Commemoration Banquet. Every year, the IJAA invites their members and Iwo Jima and Pacific Island veterans to attend their three-day reunion to honor those military veterans who served during the WWII combat of Iwo Jima. The 80th Commemoration Banquet highlighted many guests of honor, including Woody Williams’ grandson, Brent Casey who sponsored the Gold Star families table and presented the IJAA Woody Williams Award to Major General Bice, USMC (Ret) and Mr. John LaBarera for his continued service to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Towards the end of the event, eight Iwo Jima and Pacific Island veterans were called up to the stage to honor them for their service. They received a standing ovation and many personal thanks for their service and sacrifice. Maryland Gold Star Mothers Paula Davis, Donna Robinson, Joy Goode, Stephanie White, Basmattie Bishundat, Theresa Karlson and their guests enjoyed the evening and are grateful for our military veterans.
