Maryland Gold Star Mothers and Rose Duval, American Gold Star Mother (AGSM) National Service Officer (NSO) were honored to be invited to the Iwo Jima Association of America’s (IJAA) 81st Commemoration Banquet that was held on February 21, 2026.
The event was held at the Hilton Arlington National Landing Hotel, located in Crystal City, Virginia. The Iwo Jima Association of America is dedicated to preserving, commemorating and perpetuating the history and legacy of the Battles for Iwo Jima and Pacific Islands and the veterans who fought. 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 81st Commemoration Banquet highlighted many guests of honor, including the 39thCommandant of the Marine Corps, General Eric M. Smith, the current Japanese Ambassador to the United States, Shigeo Yamada, the Chairman of the Iwo Jima Association of America, Lieutenant General Richard P. Mills USMC (Ret) and the President /CEO of the Iwo Jima Association of America, Major General David F. Bice USMC (Ret).
After a delicious dinner was served, IJAA presented the 2026 Woody Williams Spirit Award to the Honor Flight Network for their patriotism, volunteerism and dedication to veterans. Towards the end of the event, twelve Iwo Jima, Pacific Island, and World War II 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, Janice Chance, Donna Robinson, Khadidja Keita, Stephanie White, Basmattie Bishundat, Theresa Karlson, and their guests are thankful to the IJAA for sponsoring three Gold Star family tables enjoyed the evening activities. The U.S. Marine Band provided music for the evening. This was another memorable event that the Maryland Gold Star Mothers were able to attend.
