Freedom of the Seas Awards 2026
Celebrating America's 250th Birthday
October 24, 2026
Freedom of the Seas Awards Dinner
October 24, 2026 aboard battleship iowa
Join us for a historic evening at the 6th Annual Freedom of the Seas Awards Dinner to "Honor the Extraordinary".
The annual awards event is hosted by the National Museum of the Surface Navy at the Battleship IOWA. This prestigious event will honor the outstanding contributions of individuals, students, and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to inspire global awareness of Freedom of the Seas.
Awards
Freedom of the Seas
The Freedom of the Seas Award goes to an accomplished individual who embodies the core principles of America’s Surface Navy to protect and defend our oceans for the benefit of the free world.
2025 Recipient:
CDR (Ret.) Victor Vescovo, USN
Past Recipients: US Surface Forces operating in the Red Sea (2024); Admiral (Ret.) Philip S. Davidson, USN (2023); US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack (2022); Ambassador (Ret.) Robert C. O’Brien (2021).
VADM Samuel L. Gravely, Jr. Leadership Award
The VADM Samuel L. Gravely, Jr. Award recognizes leaders who exemplify the trailblazing, courageous service of the late U.S. Surface Navy Vice Admiral.
2025 Recipient: Tanya Acker
Past Recipients: CMDCM (Ret.) Octavia Harris, USN (2024); Stephanie C. Hill (2023); RADM (Ret.) Sinclair Harris, USN (2022); ADM (Ret.) Michelle Howard, USN (2021); Judge Mablean Ephriam (2019), Bill Coggins (2019), VADM (Ret.) Walter Davis (2019); MGEN (Ret.) Peter Gravett (2018); Antwone Fisher (2017); Noel Massie (2016); Yvette Chappell-Ingram (2015); Dr. Wanda M. Austin (2014).
Innovation & Exploration Award
The Innovation And Exploration Award is presented to an individual who embodies the spirit to propel society beyond its limits, pioneering research and developing technologies that impact the knowledge and capabilities of people around the world.
2025 Recipient: Lockheed Martin
Past Recipients: Dr. Gladys West (2023)
International Diplomacy Award
This award recognizes leaders in international diplomacy that embody a core principle of the Surface Navy to represent America’s interests with countries around the world to further relationships, embody policies and resolve issues.
New for 2026!
Humanitarian Service Award
This award recognizes those that exemplify the fearless bravery and tenacity necessary to sail through troubled waters to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief as a core principle of America’s Surface Navy.
2025 Recipient: Kerri Kasem
Past Recipients: Philanthropic Leader Lisa Argyros (2024); California State Treasurer Fiona Ma (2023); LA County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs Director Jim Zenner (2022); Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti (2021).
Commerce & Communications Award
Presented by Bruce DD MacRae
This award recognizes leaders in commercial shipping and communications that embody a core principle of the Surface Navy in utilizing the ocean for the benefit of the free world.
Past Recipients: International Longshore & Warehouse Union (2024); California Trucking Association (2022); UPS (2021)
Distinguished Service Award
This award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the maritime industry over the course of their distinguished career. This award recognizes a lifetime of exceptional service and leadership, both at sea and on land.
Past Recipients: CAPT Roger Easton, USN (ret.); CAPT Bill Erickson, USN (ret.)
Gravely Student Scholarship
Presented by Collier Walsh Nakazawa, LLC
Eligible eleventh grade high school students are invited to participate in a scholarship essay contest as a part of Battleship IOWA Museum’s celebration of Vice Admiral Samuel L. Gravely, Jr., a “Man of Many Firsts,” in observance of Black History month. Winners could receive a scholarship ranging from $500 to $2,500.
Photo Recap
Relive the moments, people, and stories that made the Freedom of the Seas Awards an unforgettable evening. Explore highlights from the celebration as we honored leaders whose service, innovation, and commitment strengthen America’s maritime future.
