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A Message About The Wildfires from CEO Jonathan Williams

Friends,

I begin this note by expressing our heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of concern and support we’ve received from across the nation regarding the ship, our crew, and our community. We are grateful to share that the ship is safe and, for the most part, unaffected by the winds, as we are located approximately 20 miles from the fires.

The impact on our crew and community, however, has been significant. Many have experienced devastating losses, including their loved ones, pets, homes, businesses, and belongings. Others remain on high alert, bracing for potential evacuation.

The poor air quality poses further challenges, with likely long-term effects on health and well-being. We have been in touch with friends and partners who have been directly affected, and we stand ready at the Battleship IOWA to assist wherever we are needed.

Across the world, people are watching the response to these fast-moving wildfires unfold. The rapid mobilization of resources throughout the southwest United States, coupled with the timely emergency declarations by city, county, and state officials, have enabled federal agencies to provide critical support. This coordinated response reflects the importance of preparedness—a principle we have championed through the annual Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) exercise and seminar during LA Fleet Week.

Led in partnership with the City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department (EMD), these efforts have brought together familiar faces and forged strong relationships, which are now proving invaluable in this crisis. Since 2016, we have invested in fostering these conversations and relationship-building programs, recognizing their importance to the resilience of our community.

We first witnessed the value of this investment during the COVID-19 pandemic with the arrival of the USNS Mercy and military assets. Today, we see its significance again in the response to these devastating wildfires. To date, our participation has been supported primarily by general funds and the unwavering dedication of our volunteers.

Over the past year, we have further strengthened our focus on community involvement in disaster preparedness and response activities. We’ll have more to announce in that arena in the near future.

As Southern California embarks on the road to recovery in the coming weeks and months, we remain committed to fostering a stronger, more resilient community.

Our hearts and prayers are with those affected by and responding to this disaster.

If you would like to learn more about our involvement in disaster preparedness or support these efforts, please reach out to our development team at development@labattleship.com.

Stay safe, and please keep Los Angeles in your thoughts.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Williams
President & CEO

IOWA under smoke-filled skies at midday, January 9, 2025

 

P.S. If you’d like to donate to help recovery efforts for this disaster, please visit our website for more information.