The Event
What is Rock for Responders?
Rock for Responders is a powerful live concert event hosted by the National Museum of the Surface Navy at the Battleship IOWA, created to honor the unwavering dedication of first responders and veterans. More than just a concert, it’s a tribute to service, sacrifice, and resilience—a moment to come together as a community and show our collective gratitude.
Many of our emergency and military professionals face invisible battles, including the lasting impacts of trauma, stress, and PTSD. Rock for Responders shines a spotlight on these challenges, fostering mental health awareness and connecting attendees to the human side of service.
Through this uplifting experience, we also raise critical funds that directly support disaster preparedness and community resiliency programs—strengthening our capacity to respond when it matters most.
The City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department (EMD) has designated the Pacific Battleship Center, the established 501c3 non-profit that owns and operates the National Museum of the Surface Navy at the Battleship IOWA and Los Angeles Fleet Week, to facilitate the donation of funds, grants, and in-kind products or services for the benefit and support of the City’s Emergency Management Efforts.
Pacific Battleship Center is a 501c3 non-profit with Federal Tax ID # 26-3934742 located at 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, CA 90731. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Thursday, February 27th, 2025
It was an unforgettable evening with Kings of Chaos honoring Los Angeles’ first responders, military, and emergency management partners. Incredible acts performed including
- Sammy Hagar
- Robin Zander (Cheap Trick)
- Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple)
- Steve Stevens (Billy Idol | Top Gun Anthem)
- Phil X (Bon Jovi)
- Matt Sorum (Guns N’ Roses | Velvet Revolver | The Cult)
- Kevin Cronin (formerly of REO Speedwagon)
- Orianthi (Alice Cooper | Michael Jackson)
- Carmine Rojas (Rod Stewart | David Bowie)
- Paul Trudeau (Billy Idol)
- Special guests including Steve Guttenberg and ABC News Chief National Correspondent Matt Gutman
Event Details
About the Event
Rock for Responders returns aboard the Battleship IOWA Museum, hosted in partnership with the Port of Los Angeles and Princess Cruises. This benefit concert honors firefighters, police, military personnel, and emergency responders, supporting community resilience through the LA Disaster Recovery and Resilience Collective, a program of the Pacific Battleship Center.
Past highlights
More than 4,000 first responders and their families enjoyed a memorable night of live music, community, and appreciation. Funds raised benefited the LA Disaster Recovery and Resilience Collective.
Date & Time
Thursday, February 27, 2025
Doors open at 4:30 PM, show starts at 5:45 PM, and the concert ends at 9:45 PM
Who's performing?
Kings of Chaos will headline with rock legends—Sammy Hagar, Robin Zander, Glenn Hughes, Steve Stevens, Phil X, Matt Sorum, Kevin Cronin, Orianthi, Carmine Rojas, Paul Trudeau, and more. Hosted by BJ Lange, with appearances by Steve Guttenberg and Matt Gutman .
Tickets & Admission
- First responders get free admission via advance request. Each may bring one guest. Priority to those engaged in recent LA fires.
- Veterans and sponsors receive reserved ticket blocks.
- General admission tickets are available for public purchase.
- All ticket purchases and donations are final and non-refundable.
Food & Beverage
- On-site food trucks and bars will offer local fare.
- No outside food, beverages, or alcohol allowed.
Rain or Shine
The event proceeds rain or shine, so plan accordingly with appropriate attire.
Seating & Safety Rules
- No personal chairs permitted for safety and comfort.
- No weapons, no large bags, skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, bicycles, or inappropriate clothing allowed.
- All bags and persons will undergo airport-style security screening (metal detectors + bag searches).
Photography & Drones
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Personal photography is welcome, but professional cameras or video are restricted without credentials.
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The event is in a No Drone Zone per Port of LA municipal code.
Accessibility
An ADA-accessible viewing area will be available; please request it during check-in.
Ages
The concert is open to all ages.
On-Site Extras
- Merchandise available for purchase.
- A silent auction will feature autographed guitars and more.
Sponsors
