The 2016 AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition was once again a fun-filled, action packed week for AUSA members that included a number of first-time events as well as some “oldies but goodies.”

For the second straight year, the AUSA Pavilion hosted a members-only lounge where AUSA members could relax, charge their cell phones, and recharge their energy levels by enjoying caffeinated beverages at the complimentary espresso bar.

Since the Pavilion was such a hit and attracted thousands of members and non-members alike, many decided to take advantage of the membership table located in the Pavilion to join or renewing their AUSA membership.

With 2016’s special membership rates – $30 for two years; $50 for five years; $300 for life member. Private and specialist (E-1 to E-4) and cadets, $10 for two years – signing up now was too good a deal to pass up.

The special rates end Dec. 31.

In addition to the AUSA Pavilion, there were a number of first-time events that brought a new level of engagement and excitement to young professionals attending the Annual Meeting.

The first was a pre-release screening of “Hacksaw Ridge,” a film about a World War II Medal of Honor recipient who served as an Army combat medic during the battle of Okinawa.

Over 300 people attended the screening including Under Secretary of the Army Patrick Murphy, and Col. Jason Garkey, regimental commander, 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard).

The film received enthusiastic reviews and many members are keeping their fingers crossed for a similar show at next year’s Annual Meeting.

The other exciting, new event to storm the exhibit floor was the inaugural #HuntAUSA social media scavenger hunt sponsored by Leidos, an AUSA sustaining member.

Participants were asked to take six selfies at various exhibits at the convention center and post them on Facebook or Twitter. The first 100 people to complete the hunt were awarded a $10 gift card for gourmet coffee.

Also, everyone who completed the hunt had his or her name entered in a drawing to receive two tickets to the meeting’s premier social event, the Marshall Dinner.

The 2016 Annual Meeting and Exposition was a resounding success in terms of membership, engagement and excitement.

From the popularity of the AUSA Pavilion, to the fun and upbeat activities offered as added entertainment, AUSA has proven once again that it is second to none when it comes to hosting a first-class meeting for its members.

We hope to see you next year!