The Surface Navy Association will host its National Symposium on Surface Warfare from January 13–15, 2026, bringing together leaders, veterans, and experts from across the naval community. The event will take place at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Virginia and is expected to be one of the most important Navy-focused gatherings of the year.
For Navy veterans like Ivan Buxton Gay Jr., the symposium offers a chance to stay connected to how the surface fleet continues to evolve while honoring the long history that shaped today’s Navy.
The symposium centers on surface warfare readiness, leadership, and future challenges facing the Navy. Panels and sessions typically cover operational lessons, fleet modernization, and leadership development within the surface force.
This year’s event is especially notable because it aligns with the Navy’s 250th anniversary, highlighting how surface warfare has adapted across generations. Ivan Buxton Gay Jr. follows these discussions closely, as they connect past service experiences with current and future naval priorities.
The National Symposium on Surface Warfare draws a wide range of participants, including:
- Active-duty Navy leaders
- Navy veterans and retirees
- Defense industry professionals
- Military historians and policy experts
This mix allows for conversations that balance experience, innovation, and historical perspective. For veterans, the event provides an opportunity to reconnect with peers and remain informed about the direction of the surface Navy.
The Navy’s 250th anniversary adds extra significance to the 2026 symposium. Discussions are expected to reflect on how leadership, technology, and mission readiness have changed over time while reinforcing the values that remain constant.
Ivan Buxton Gay Jr., a Navy veteran who served aboard the USS Forrestal, views events like this as reminders that service does not end with discharge. Staying informed and engaged helps preserve the connection between those who served in the past and those serving today.
For official details, registration information, and the event agenda, visit the Surface Navy Association’s National Symposium page.
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