May 22, 2025 (BIRMINGHAM, Ala.) – The Congressional Medal of Honor Society, in partnership with the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, City of Birmingham, and 2027 Medal of Honor Convention Birmingham Host Committee is proud to announce that Birmingham has been selected as the official Host City for the 2027 Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention from September 13-18, 2027.
“Our Recipients are honored to bring the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention to Birmingham – a city rich in American history and defined by its unwavering patriotism,” said Britt Slabinski, Medal of Honor Recipient and President of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. “As the birthplace of the very first Veterans Day parade, Birmingham has set a national example in how we remember and honor those who serve. During our time here, we intend to give back to this community by sharing our stories, investing our time, and engaging meaningfully with students, veterans, civic leaders, and families. It is our hope that our presence here will strengthen the deep spirit of patriotism that has long defined Birmingham and inspire a renewed sense of unity and purpose.”
The Convention will bring together living Medal of Honor Recipients and their families for a week of reflection, recognition and community engagement. The gathering offers a unique opportunity to celebrate America’s most decorated military heroes while showcasing the history, hospitality and civic pride of Birmingham.
“Our city has a unique history of resilience, community building and transformation, and it’s only fitting that we serve those who have so selflessly served us,” said A.C. Roper Army Lt. General (Ret.), Former Birmingham Chief of Police. “With more than 400,000 veterans across our state, we continue to honor those who have served through events, memorials and the pride our community takes in celebrating our heroes.”
Birmingham’s identity as a city that honors military service is rooted in a proud legacy. It is home to the nation’s first-ever National Veterans Day Parade. Established in 1954, the parade helped shape how the United States recognizes and celebrates its veterans. That tradition continues today through annual community events, preserved memorials and a strong local commitment to those who have served in uniform.
“Home to the National Veterans Shrine, the Alabama Fallen Warriors Monument, Alabama Veterans Memorial Park and more, our city holds a deep, enduring respect for those who have served,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin. “This Convention is both a privilege and a moment for our community to come together in tribute to the values of courage, sacrifice and integrity.”
An estimated 40 of the 61 living Medal of Honor Recipients are expected to attend the Convention. The weeklong series of events will include a blend of public ceremonies, educational initiatives and private gatherings.
Birmingham will join the ranks of other destinations, like San Antonio, New Orleans and Knoxville, who have had the privilege of hosting the Convention in recent years.
“Hosting the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention is an incredible honor for Birmingham. We’re proud to showcase our city’s history, hospitality and respect for those who have served,” said John Oros, CEO of the Greater Birmingham CVB. “This prestigious event will bring visitors from across the country and further solidify Birmingham’s reputation as a top destination for national conventions.”
“Birmingham has long demonstrated what it means to honor service not just in words, but through enduring traditions and community spirit,” said Chad Graham, Executive Director of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to work alongside local partners to foster meaningful dialogue, engage with future generations, and celebrate the values that unite us as Americans. This Convention is as much about listening and learning as it is about honoring, and Birmingham provides an ideal backdrop for that exchange.”
For more information on the 2027 Congressional Medal of Honor Convention, including sponsorship opportunities and event details, visit inbirmingham.com/CMOHSConvention.
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About the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau
The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) is the official tourism and marketing organization for Birmingham and Jefferson County. Established in 1969, the non-profit agency generates positive economic impact by positioning the Greater Birmingham Region as a premier destination for conventions, sporting events, and domestic and international leisure travel. Birmingham and its neighboring municipalities welcome more than 4.04 million visitors each year, generating $2.57 billion in economic impact. Learn more at inbirmingham.com.
About the Congressional Medal of Honor Society
The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, chartered by Congress in 1958 and composed exclusively of living Recipients of the Medal of Honor – the nation’s highest award for military valor in combat. Since the Medal’s founding by President Abraham Lincoln in 1861, only 3,528 individuals have received it, and today, just 61 living Recipients remain. The Society is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Medal of Honor and supporting those who wear it. Through nationwide outreach, the Recipients engage with schools, communities, veterans, and active-duty service members to inspire future generations to live with courage, sacrifice, integrity, commitment, patriotism, and citizenship – the values embodied by the Medal. To fulfill this mission, the Society offers robust programs in education, public outreach, and historical preservation, including the Medal of Honor Character Development Program, the Citizen Honors Awards, and the Medal of Honor Museum, located aboard the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. The Society’s work is made possible through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and mission partners, and is carried out in partnership with the Medal of Honor Foundation. Learn more at www.cmohs.org.