LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Servicemembers from throughout the state will be present at the 2008 California Military Ball clad in their finest mess dress to celebrate a year of exceptional service to state and country on April 19, 2008.

"The California Military Ball 2008, hosted by the California National Guard is a celebration of all branches of the military," said Major General William H. Wade II, the Adjutant General of the California National Guard. "The evening will be an enjoyable event.  Please join me in honoring and recognizing our military heroes."

Soldiers and Airmen from Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard units across the state will join together at the Sheraton Gateway hotel in Los Angeles for the ball, which will offer live music, dancing, and a delectable dinner selection.

The ball will also be attended by general officers from all service branches, Congressional representatives, and local community leaders.

In conjunction with the Military Ball, Major General Wade and his wife Leslie will host a Family Readiness Symposium at the hotel on Saturday and Sunday for Guardsmen and their families.

For more information about the 2008 Military Ball or to RSVP please contact Sergeant First Class Paul McKenna at 562-594-1816. Hotel reservations can be made by calling the Sheraton Gateway at 866-716-8130. Mention "California Military Ball" for a discounted government rate.