Postponed: Regional Trip to Rock Island Arsenal
September 18, 2025 @ 2:00 pm - September 19, 2025 @ 6:00 pm CDT
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*This regional engagement has been postponed; we will share an updated date once details are confirmed. Questions? Contact ncallone@bens.org.
Join BENS for an exclusive trip to Rock Island Arsenal (RIA), the nation’s largest government arsenal. Led by BENS Chief Operating Officer Major General Chris Craige, USAF (ret.), our delegation will be on the ground with US First Army Command, Army Sustainment Command, and Joint Munitions Command. We will also tour the Joint Manufacturing Technology Center.
RIA plays an integral role in our nation’s defense industrial base. The 2.5 sq. mile island is home to the Army’s prime 3D printer and is leading additive manufacturing efforts to revolutionize machine repair, lower costs, and enhance military readiness. RIA is focused on preparedness for wartime mobilization and logistics for material resupplies of ammunition, equipment, food, and uniforms.
Agenda
- Thursday, Sept. 18, 2 p.m. Group ground transport will depart from the Chicago Loop
- 5 p.m. Members arrive and check in to the hotel in Moline, IL
- 6 p.m. Welcome brief with COO Major General Chris Craige USAF (ret.), followed by dinner with Commanding General of US First Army Command, Lieutenant General Mark Landes
- Friday, Sept. 19, morning-3 p.m. Travel to Rock Island Arsenal for high-level engagements and tour the Joint Manufacturing Technology Center.
- 6 p.m. Group ground transport returns to the Chicago Loop
Trip Logistics
Attendees are responsible for their own expenses and will share all group and staff expenses incurred on the trip. The estimated cost for this trip is $650 per person; however, this may fluctuate based on overall participation to include late additions and/or cancellations. A $250 deposit will be required at the time of registration, which will be deducted from your trip invoice. If a BENS member needs to cancel trip participation, BENS staff will make every effort to find a substitute traveler. If the space cannot be filled, the deposit may be retained for BENS expenses.
Registration
Space for this trip is limited so please contact Natalie Callone right away with your interest and availability. In addition, please refrain from making any travel arrangements until your participation is confirmed.
This is a great opportunity for our members to interface with the crossroads of the US defense industrial base.
Cost: $650
Organizer:
NCallone@bens.org
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