2008 Conference & Show Keynote Speaker Announced


For Immediate Release

Contact: Chris Longly

Public Affairs Manager

(913) 541-8084 ext. 31

clongly@auctioneers.org

2008 Conference & Show Keynote Speaker Announced

U.S. Navy Commander Scott Waddle (Ret.)

Overland Park, KS – The National Auctioneers Association is pleased to announce the keynote speaker for the 59th International Auctioneers Conference and Show, U.S. Navy Commander Scott Waddle (Ret.). Cmdr. Waddle will speak before members on Wednesday, July 9th. The 2008 conference will take place July 7-12 at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel and Nashville Convention Center.

Commander Scott Waddle (Ret.)

In a matter of minutes, Commander Waddle's life and the lives of his 140 man-crew changed forever on February 9, 2001. What was planned as a routine training session, ended in disaster as the USS Greeneville, a Los Angeles class fast-attack submarine, breached the surface during an emergency test run, tearing through a Japanese fishing boat and killing nine innocent people. The largest naval submarine accident in American history, Cmdr. Waddle was the center of international attention.

While many leaders choose to deny or make excuses for their behavior, Cmdr. Waddle stood boldly and took complete responsibility for his actions. Against the advice of his lawyer and the direction of the Navy, Scott followed his conscience.


An inspirational leader with uncompromising ethical standards, Cmdr. Waddle's pursuit of integrity against all odds provides an inspiring challenge to anyone facing difficult choices in life. Cmdr. Waddle will tell his compelling story about his tragic ordeal and the choices that followed. It's a lesson about integrity, faith, and resilience.


Commander Waddle is the author of "The Right Thing".


About the NAA
Headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, the National Auctioneers Association (NAA) represents the interests of almost 6,000 Auctioneers in the United States, Canada, and across the world. Founded in 1949, the mission of the NAA is to promote the auction method of marketing and enhancing the professionalism of its members through education and technology. In 2006, the auction industry grew by 7.1% with over $257 billion in goods and services sold. To learn more about Auctioneers, auctions and the NAA visit www.auctioneers.org.