Friends, I wanted to share a quick update. We were recently informed that the Secretary of the Navy has withdrawn from the Navy Museum land swap deal for the new museum in Washington, D.C. While it’s too early to know how this may affect their efforts, I wanted to keep you informed. You can read more about it here: https://capitolhillcorner.org/2025/10/24/navy-secretary-withdraws-from-navy-museum-land-swap/ Our first experience, Great Ships, has received rave reviews from all who have seen it....

Team, Congratulations to everyone for an extraordinary Freedom of the Seas, celebrating 250 years of our Surface Navy! Freedom of the Seas is truly a team effort — planning begins early each year with the Awards Committee selecting recipients and the Events Planning Committee assembling the program. From deck plate to board, every part of our team plays a role in planning and executing this event. The final weeks can take a toll, but I want to especially recognize Marguerite Mohney, Marann...

Team, Happy Monday! Today, we welcome back Hershell Hardimon as our new Director of Crew Operations. This role—originally inspired by a volunteer’s idea—has taken shape to oversee human resources, volunteer services, security, and training. This development continues a journey we began last year when our team and board workshopped and approved our 2035 goals: to become our Nation’s museum of the future—one built on a people-first culture that exemplifies professional excellence. Over the past...

Team, It’s a busy and exciting October as we celebrate the Navy’s 250th birthday today with a special Chairman’s Reception unveiling Great Ships and prepare to head into Freedom of the Seas Weekend. I trust your department managers and leadership have already connected with you regarding recent policy changes and reminders, but I want to take a moment to reinforce a few important points for all staff and volunteers: Policy Reminders Schedule: The majority of our operations occur over the...

Team, This week, we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Navy — a milestone that reminds us of our shared mission to honor service, inspire purpose, and build community. Here aboard IOWA, we’re marking the occasion with the launch of our special invite-only Great Ships Experience receptions. We’ll be scheduling a crew open house in late October or early November, so stay tuned for your special invitation. With the completion of the Great Ships Experience, our focus now shifts to...

Team: School is back in session, vacations have ended, and we are now shifting into the off-season. During this period, we will focus on deepening donor, veteran, and student engagement opportunities. One of the key highlights is the Freedom of the Seas Awards on October 25th. More information, including ticket purchases, can be found at: https://surfacenavymuseum.org/fos/. This week, I will be attending the LA Tourism Market Outlook Forum, my first event as a board member. Hall will be...