“All freedom … depends on the freedom of the seas — for our own shipping, for the commerce of our sister Republics, for the right of all nations to use the highways of world trade, and for our own safety.”
— President Franklin D. Roosevelt, May 1941
Our Story — More Than a Ship or a Museum
The story of Battleship IOWA is one of legacy, purpose, and transformation. What began in 2000 as a grandson’s “final” visit with his grandfather aboard a sister battleship became something extraordinary — a reminder of the healing power of connection and storytelling. That moment helped spark a movement that saved USS Iowa and gave a grandfather 17 more years filled with life, purpose, and reflection.
In 2011, a former sailor stepped aboard his battleship — USS Iowa — and made a life-altering choice to leave a successful career and join a new crew and community he now calls home. Today, he continues his journey aboard, with his children inspired to follow in his footsteps and pursue Navy service.
Moments like these ignited a decades-long effort to preserve USS Iowa not as a relic, but as a living platform for education, remembrance, and civic engagement. From our strategic home at the Port of Los Angeles, we deliver immersive experiences and dynamic programs that benefit our community, our veterans, our youth, and our Nation.
In 2016, teaming up with the City and Port of Los Angeles to launch LA Fleet Week® changed how Americans engage with their Navy — a first-of-its-kind, community-driven festival that continues to inspire hundreds of thousands each year. Building on that momentum, we pursued the National Museum of the Surface Navy in 2018, receiving a Navy license, and with the support of our local congressional leadership, secured congressional designation in 2021.
Widely considered one of the least known yet most impactful nonprofits in Los Angeles, the Pacific Battleship Center has grown into a deeply integrated community anchor — providing space, support, and inspiration to thousands each year. Despite receiving no government operating funding, we embrace our responsibility to serve and maximize every dollar for measurable impact.
This journey is now evolving into something greater: the National Museum of the Surface Navy, opening in 2026 aboard USS Iowa. As the first museum in the United States dedicated to honoring the men and women of the Surface Navy and their role in securing peace, prosperity, and the freedom of the seas, we’re building it differently — through immersive experiences designed to truly connect America with its Navy.
At the core of our work is a simple belief: the road from curiosity to resilience is built on connection and purpose. That philosophy shapes our pillars in Education, Veterans, and Community, and guides everything we do.
This is more than a museum.
It is a movement of purpose, connection, and global impact.
Vision
To inspire global awareness of freedom of the seas.
Mission
We ignite curiosity, connect communities, and enhance understanding of America’s role in maritime peace and prosperity.
Brands
Battleship USS Iowa, National Museum of the Surface Navy, LA Fleet Week, LA Disaster Resilience and Recovery Collective, Vicky the Dog, Freedom of the Seas.
Program Pillars
Education, Veterans, Community
Our Team
From saving a ship to building a movement — together, we make it possible.
At the Pacific Battleship Center, our story is one of commitment, perseverance, and purpose. As one crewmember said, being part of this organization is like living in a docuseries — with a new episode unfolding every day.
Our team is led and advised by all-volunteer boards, including the Board of Directors, National Leadership Council, Chairman’s Flag Council, and President’s Advisory Board. These leaders provide governance, strategic insight, and national advocacy.
At the operational level, the “crew” of the museum is approximately one-third staff and two-thirds volunteers, keeping us deeply connected to the volunteer roots that built this organization from the ground up. Founded in 2008 and hiring our first employee after saving the ship in 2012, we’ve grown to nearly 100 employees and welcome over 50,000 hours of volunteer service annually.
Our volunteers come from all walks of life — veterans, students, professionals, retirees — and contribute across every department and function. They are united by a shared purpose to serve, connect, and honor those who came before, while inspiring those still to come.
Financial Stewardship
Trusted. Transparent. Impact-Driven.
Tax Returns
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, transparency and accountability are core to our mission. Each year, we file IRS Form 990, which provides the public with detailed information about our governance, operations, and commitment to responsible stewardship.
We proudly operate without government funding for our day-to-day operations, relying instead on the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community partners. Our Form 990 reflects our values of purpose, service, and impact — showing how we continue to invest in programs that support veterans, youth, and civic engagement while preserving the legacy of the Battleship IOWA.
Leadership compensation is reviewed and approved by our independent Board of Directors to ensure alignment with industry best practices and donor trust.
2024 Form 990 | 2023 Form 990 | 2022 Form 990 | 2021 Form 990 | 2020 Form 990
Audited Financial Statements
We believe in transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of every dollar entrusted to us. Each year, an independent certified public accounting firm conducts a thorough audit of our financial statements to ensure accuracy and integrity.
Our audited financials reflect our commitment to fiscal responsibility as we continue to operate without government funding for core operations, relying on the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community partners to fulfill our mission.
Browse our audited financial statements below to see how your support drives lasting impact.
2024 Audit | 2023 Audit | 2022 Audit | 2021 Audit | 2020 Audit
Annual Impact Reports
Each year, we measure our success by the lives we touch, the stories we preserve, and the communities we strengthen. From honoring veterans to inspiring students and connecting neighbors, our impact reflects a steadfast commitment to service, purpose, and innovation.
Explore the highlights from each year below and see how your support fuels programs that reach hundreds of thousands across the nation.
2024 Impact Report | 2023 Impact Report | 2022 Impact Report | 2021 Impact Report | 2020 Impact Report
Our Donors
Every achievement we celebrate is made possible by the generosity of our supporters.
From restoring an iconic battleship to building a national platform for education, veterans, and civic engagement, our mission is powered by donors who believe in service, connection, and legacy. Whether through individual gifts, corporate partnerships, foundations, or in-kind contributions, your support fuels programs that reach hundreds of thousands each year.
We are proud to recognize the individuals, families, and organizations who stand with us — helping preserve history, honor service, and inspire the next generation.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
2024 Donors | 2023 Donors | 2022 Donors | 2021 Donors | 2020 Donors
