Highlighted by a welcoming address by Congressman Murtha, and attended by 1,200 businesspeople, this event is the opening ceremony for Showcase for Commerce, playing host to approximately 140 different companies engaged in both defense and commercial operations. It serves as the kickoff for exhibiting firms to display their products and services to the numerous participants and guests, filling the exhibitor floor with product samples, demonstrations and service descriptions. Each booth is staffed by knowledgeable representatives to demonstrate samples, define products and services or discuss the company's business concepts, enabling exhibitors to begin the process of partnering, teaming and building business relationships.

Congressman Murtha takes a hands-on approach to the Showcase for Commerce, personally visiting each booth and spending time with the exhibitors to discuss their products, services and capabilities and how each firm can help build a stronger supply chain for the defense industry.