Live from Convention: Opening ceremonies underway

With a thunderous crack of the giant ceremonial gavel, AMVETS National Convention was officially called to order at the Sheraton New Orleans this afternoon. Hundreds of veterans and their loved ones from across the country were on hand for the ceremony.

AMVETS National Color Guard from Hagerstown AMVETS Post No. 10 in Maryland presented the colors, as the Marine Corps Band played the National Anthem.

The call-to-order and introduction of national officers and distinguished guests from Taiwan's Department of Veterans Affairs was followed by a somber POW/MIA ceremony.

Later today, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki will address the delegation along with Louisiana Secretary of Veterans Affairs Lane Carson.

Check back shortly at American Veteran Online for updates on today's events.

(Photos: Top: AMVETS National Commander John C. Hapner receives an award from Taiwan Veterans Affairs Secretary General Tai-Chen Cha. Bottom: Hagerstown AMVETS conducted the POW/MIA ceremony. Photos by Jay Agg.)