March 27, 2025
Whoooaaaa, We’re Halfway There
It’s stuck in your head now, isnt’ it? Our excitement over the progress we’ve made on the refurbishment of the deck on the 01 admiral’s veranda combined with our recent concert made us throw an “earworm” your way.
On Wednesday, March 19 we unveiled the port side of the new completed decking, marking a significant milestone in our restoration efforts.
Thanks to the incredible support from our friends in the Great State of Iowa and the hard work from our crew and the professionals at Teakdecking Systems, we’ve reached the halfway point on the 01 deck restoration. The port side of the is now not only pretty, it’s also safe from the elements for years to come.
Next goal: finish the starboard side in time for LA Fleet Week over Memorial Day weekend.
While we’ve made great strides, there’s still much work ahead. The 01 is far from the only deck that needs help and there are plenty of ways to get involved.
Whether you’re donating, visiting, or sharing our progress, every contribution helps keep this important project moving forward.
Let’s keep this momentum going!
Meanwhile, in Iowa…
Yesterday morning we celebrated IOWA’s 82nd birthday by honoring one of her biggest supporters.
The 2nd annual USS Iowa Jeff Lamberti Service Award were established to honor the incredible leadership and dedication of Jeff Lamberti, who, in 2007, played a pivotal role in saving Battleship IOWA.
The USS Iowa Jeff Lamberti Award recognizes individuals who embody the spirit of service and commitment to our nation’s veterans and history. This year, the award was presented to Dan Kehl.
Dan is the CEO of Elite Casino Resorts and a Trustee of the Kehl Family Foundation. He continues the Kehl Family’s legacy of philanthropy through support of numerous educational institutions, youth organizations, and preservation of the Battleship USS IOWA.
April 19th
At 9:55 AM on April 19, 1989, an open-breech explosion took place in the center gun of IOWA’s Turret II. The blast killed 47 sailors. They were friends, they were family, they were shipmates…
This year, as we do every year, we will hold a ceremony to remember the IOWA 47. Please join us live – in person or online – to honor the men who lost their lives in Turret II.
The ceremony will be held on the fantail and will be live on our YouTube channel. Watch this newsletter and our socials for a link.
Attention 11th Graders
It’s not too late to apply for the Gravely Experience Essay Contest! If you’re a high school junior, this is your chance to win a scholarship ranging from $500 to $2,500.
All high school juniors (11th graders) enrolled in a United States History course—whether at public (traditional or charter), private, parochial schools, or as home-schooled students—between the ages of 15-18 are eligible to apply.
Winners must be able to attend the Freedom of the Seas Awards Gala on October 19, 2024, in San Pedro, California to receive their scholarships.
Secure your place in the Walk of Honor today.
NOTE: If you prefer not to donate electronically, please mail your check to:
Attention: Development Department, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, CA 90731
Thank you to our 2024 donors for their generosity and support. Want to know how your donations are making a difference? Check out our ANNUAL REPORT here.
Want to see your name on the 2024 donor list? There’s still time to make a tax-deductible contribution to our organization.
Fun Fact: Did you know… on average every one of our plank owners has contributed $150 to the National Museum of the Surface Navy?
Click below to learn more and join.
