June 29: Opening Thursday Night Speakers Event: Cookout and Talk with Theodore R. Marolda, starting at 6pm.

To kick off the Fourth of July weekend, NCC member Ted Marolda will interview his father, former Marine Gunnery Sergeant Theodore R. Marolda, about his dramatic firsthand experiences at Guadalcanal, the first major Allied land battle against the Japanese in the Solomon Islands during World War II. The U.S. Marine invasion of the island began disastrously, but the Allies ultimately prevailed after six months. This battle was pivotal, and changed the course of the war in the Pacific. Because of the historical importance of this vivid firsthand account, the event is open to high school students who are guests of Club members.