Commandant Dennis Tobin writes:

Marines, I have been trying to put together a video or a live feed to explain what has transpired over the last couple months regarding our convention, no luck so far with the video idea. I will keep trying. First I want to apologize for everyone for receiving word from the hotel before me. We were obligated to notify the hotel officially first, which we did yesterday morning, we did not expect them to hit the refund button right away. We expected some conversation before hand. Second, let me try to explain the process, we, the Board of Trustees tried to hold out as long as possible before decided Go/No Go. We held numerous video conferences and telecoms to review current conditions, restrictions and regulations. Yesterday we made the No Go decision and cancelled the 2020 Convention. The number 1 reason for the decision was the health and well being of all our members, especially those seasoned members 65 and over. We could not put members at risk, there are still too many unknowns, restrictions and regulations in place. We had to get our attorneys involved because there were financial issues involved. If not done properly the league could stand to lose a great deal of money. The integrity of the league is also at risk and the integrity of the Dept. of Florida and their convention people. So there has been a great deal to consider and its the National Boards responsibility to make sure all of these issues are addressed and dealt with properly. Had we failed in any area it falls directly on me as your National Commandant. So we moved slow and steady to accomplish our mission, the mission you the membership elected us to do. This is only the second time in our 100 years that a National Convention has been cancelled. The last time it happened was in 1932. Not bad. These have been some crazy and trying times for us all and this was the hardest decision this Board has had to make. So again I apologize for any inconvenience we may have caused. Enjoy the rest of you summer and please stay safe. Semper Fidelis,