Dear Friends,

I recently celebrated my 50th birthday, and to my surprise, our crew gathered on a Friday morning to mark the occasion with treats and friendship. While I didn’t indulge in the treats, Cesar (Vicky’s manager) had me covered with egg whites, potatoes, and a couple of pieces of bacon—just the kind of thoughtful gesture that makes this community special.

Reflecting on a lifetime of memories, I’m struck by how they have shaped who I am today. It’s incredible to realize that I’ve been involved with Battleship IOWA for 25 years, and yet, I’m just as excited today as I was when I first started.

Over these five decades, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of life—building, growing, and restructuring organizations, battling lifelong unhealthy habits that continue to challenge me, and facing internal struggles that, at times, have led to anxiety and depression. So what does this have to do with the Pacific Battleship Center? Everything.

This community of like-minded individuals has created a support system that has helped veterans transition, careers flourish, and people—even me—overcome personal struggles. It has led many, me included, to healthier, more fulfilling lives. Most importantly, it has made me a better leader and a better person for my family.

We often don’t realize how much we’ve grown until those around us recognize the change. In my case, I’ve had the privilege of seeing our team evolve, push boundaries, and take on new challenges. Each of us has the power to change lives through generosity and kindness.

Recently, we received a generous legacy gift from a crew member who described our impact on his life with a single word: “happiness.” His legacy will live on as we continue to foster a people-first culture, setting the stage to become the nation’s museum of the future by 2035.

As we look ahead to celebrating our nation’s 250th birthday, along with the anniversaries of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Army, let’s remember that each of us has the ability to make a difference. Every day, we choose how we show up for others.

Let’s choose kindness, generosity, and action.

Best wishes,

Jonathan Williams
President & CEO

“State of the Ship” Address

Rock for Responders

• Sammy Hagar
• Robin Zander (Cheap Trick)
• Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple)
• Kevin Cronin (formerly of REO Speedwagon)
• Steve Stevens (Billy Idol | Top Gun Anthem)
• Orianthi (Alice Cooper | Michael Jackson)
• Matt Sorum (Guns N’ Roses | Velvet Revolver | The Cult)
• And more!