Governor and First Lady Parson to Host Military Ball at Governor's Mansion

DECEMBER 28, 2023

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson announced that they will revive a lost Missouri tradition and host a Missouri Military Ball at the Governor's Mansion on Saturday, December 30 at 5:30 p.m. 

The history of Missouri's leaders hosting Military Balls dates back to the early 1800s with a territorial celebration of the state militia, the predecessor to the Missouri National Guard. With the construction of the current Governor's Mansion in 1871, the event became the New Year's Military Reception and continued until 1926. In following years, the military gathering was held intermittently at the Governor's Mansion, and Governor and First Lady Parson are excited to rekindle this tradition.

The 135th Army Band will be performing for the ball and several distinguished guests will be in attendance, including statewide officials, members of the Missouri National Guard, Missouri Military Installation Commanders, military community partners and stakeholders, members of the Missouri General Assembly and Missouri's congressional delegation, members of the Missouri Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission, and the Governor's Cabinet, among other honored guests.

Governor and First Lady Parson will also welcome several dignitaries to the Governor's Mansion: 

  • General Thomas Bussiere and Chief Master Sergeant Melvina Smith, Air Force Global Strike Command and Air Forces Strategic - Air, U.S. Strategic Command

  • Major General Levon E. Cumpton, Adjutant General, Missouri National Guard and Command Sergeant Major Larry Godsey, Command Senior Enlisted Leader, Missouri National Guard

  • Two World War II Veterans, First Class Petty Officer Rose Washington and Staff Sergeant Jim Heitmeyer

The First Family will be displaying some of the USS Missouri silver service, including the punch bowl that is housed at the Missouri Governor's Mansion. Hors d'oeuvres and wine sponsored by Stone Hill Winery in Hermann will be served. 

NOTE: While the event is invitation only, there will be a media availability with First Lady Teresa Parson and Missouri Military Advocate Harry Roberts to discuss the Military Ball prior to event start from 5:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The event will be closed to media after 5:30 p.m. 

All media will need to RSVP to Johnathan.Shiflett@governor.mo.gov by 4:00 p.m. Friday, December 29.