Birmingham will serve as the official host city for the 2027 Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention, set to take place from September 13-18, 2027.
The announcement was made in partnership with the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City of Birmingham, and the 2027 Medal of Honor Convention Birmingham Host Committee.
“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 activities centered on reflection, recognition, and community engagement. The event will highlight Birmingham’s historical and civic contributions while offering an opportunity to honor the nation’s most decorated military heroes.
“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.) and 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 tradition of honoring veterans dates back to 1954, when it hosted the nation’s first National Veterans Day Parade. That legacy continues through a range of commemorative events and memorials dedicated to military service.
“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.”
Approximately 40 of the 61 living Medal of Honor Recipients are expected to participate in the 2027 Convention. The schedule will include public ceremonies, educational programs, and private gatherings.
The event will position Birmingham alongside other cities that have recently hosted the convention, including San Antonio, New Orleans, and Knoxville.
“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.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
