RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia National Guard Association and the Virginia Army / Air National Guard Enlisted Association announced today that the 9th Annual Legislative Reception scheduled for Jan. 20, 2021 in Richmond has been cancelled.

“Our priority is the health and safety of our community, including our members, supporters, volunteers invited guests and staff supporting the event,” explained Maj. Andrew J. Czaplicki, VNGA president. “As the novel Coronavirus pandemic unfolds, it is becoming clear that in the face of continuous unforeseen and unprecedented conditions, we need to make tough choices.”

“We recognize the magnitude of this decision for the associations and our membership,” said Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Cliff White, VAAANGEA president. “The annual reception brings together dozens of passionate leaders and professionals every year to celebrate the tremendous efforts of the Virginia National Guard. This year we were especially looking forward to the reception; however, the well-being of our community, staff and membership has to be the number one concern, and that drove our decision making.”

The associations will be working with the Virginia Department of Military Affairs directly over the coming months to educate and inform members of the General Assembly about legislation affecting the Virginia National Guard.

“Although this is a great disappointment, VNGA is far from the only organization taking a hard look at their annual receptions,” Czaplicki explained. “We are using this experience to fuel and engage our members’ grassroots efforts.”

The VNGA and VAAANGEA has held an annual Legislative Reception at the Library of Virginia in Richmond, Virginia for the past eight years.  Traditionally, the event has brought senior leaders of the Virginia National Guard and members of the General Assembly together in a social environment to connect, exchange ideas and learn about the activities and challenges facing the Commonwealth’s Guardians.

“Our work is a year-round endeavor, and especially in this time of unpredictability, we will work closely with the General Assembly on programs and initiatives that benefit the Virginia National Guard so that we can continue to serve our communities, the commonwealth and the Nation,” said Czaplicki.

The associations are coordinating to offer an online experience to showcase the Virginia National Guard for members of the General Assembly working remote during the 2021 legislative session.

Learn more about the VNGA’s advocacy efforts here. 

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