CEO Corner
Updates from Jonathan Williams
Jonathan Williams is the President & CEO of the Pacific Battleship Center, home of the Battleship IOWA, LA Fleet Week, and the National Museum of the Surface Navy. A purpose-driven leader and storyteller, he shares updates and insights from one of the nation’s most innovative nonprofit organizations. His writing explores leadership, community, and culture — connecting lessons from the deck plate to the boardroom while highlighting the people, progress, and purpose that continue to drive the mission forward.
Newest Updates
The Broadside January 2026
VOL. 2, NO. 1JANUARY 2026Ahoy, shipmates! You have stumbled into THE BROADSIDE, Battleship IOWA's official crew newsletter. Herein we'll share all the ship-sized shenanigans and tantalizing tales that cruise the companionways of our beloved armored ice box. In addition, we'll include pertinent particulars that should ensure you can stand your watch well informed. That said... "It's 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark, and we're wearing...
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“Damn The Torpedoes! Full Speed Ahead!”
"Damn The Torpedoes! Full Speed Ahead!" An Update on the National Museum of the Surface Navy, at Battleship IOWA The National Museum of the Surface Navy: Life of a Sailor is more than a museum experience — it’s the living story of service, sacrifice, and spirit that defines every sailor who’s stood the watch. It’s also the story of all people. Each of us faces trials and challenges that test our strength and shape our purpose. For sailors, those lessons play out at sea, where teamwork,...
“Oh Those Float Planes…”
Excerpt from IOWA’s deck log: “Oh, those float planes”
Update and Invitation to Host a Reception
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 We were recently informed that the Secretary of the Navy has withdrawn from the Navy Museum land swap deal for the new museum in Washington, D.C. While it’s too early to know how this may affect their efforts, I wanted to keep you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....
Congratulations on an Extraordinary Freedom of the Seas
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...
Welcome Back, Hershell — and a Step Forward for Our Team
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...
Accepting Applications: Paws For Freedom
Paws For Freedom is a community art and engagement initiative to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States
Important: Policy Reminders & Leadership Changes
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...
From Great Ships to What Comes Next
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...
Limited time only!
Kids Board Free
In the all-new Life of a Sailor experience, kids become sailor recruits, building their skills, following the story of a famous sailor, and joining Vicky the Dog on a scavenger hunt through Battleship IOWA.
Kids board free with a paid adult.