National Museum of the Surface Navy: Life of a Sailor

An immersive, pop-culture-driven experience that connects every American to the freedom of the seas and the sailors who protect it.

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Honoring Service. Inspiring Purpose. Building Connection.

Led by the Pacific Battleship Center — the nonprofit steward of Battleship IOWA and LA Fleet Week — the Life of a Sailor campaign is building the National Museum of the Surface Navy. Its mission is to connect every American to the sailors and ships that defend freedom of the seas. Through pop culture and immersive storytelling, guests step into the role of a sailor — feeling the camaraderie, purpose, and responsibility of serving at sea.

The Campaign: Life of a Sailor

The initial campaign to build the National Museum of the Surface Navy — connecting America to its Surface Navy through popular culture.

Life of a Sailor is an interactive, immersive journey that takes visitors from boot camp to life at sea, connecting them with the stories, challenges, and triumphs of those who served. This experience humanizes service, inspires future generations, and shows every American how the Surface Navy protects the freedom of the seas that shapes our daily lives.

Phase 1: An Immersive Journey

Visitors step into the boots of sailors, discovering the purpose, resilience, and camaraderie that define service at sea — past and present. Phase 1 showcases include:

Arrival
Chapel
Life of a Sailor
Boot Camp
Great Ships
Shipyard
At Sea
Mission Assignment
Welcome Aboard!

Project Budget Phase 1: $8.5 million
Projected Opening: 2026

Future phases will expand the museum with experiences including Aegis, Lost at Sea, Career Tracks, Finale, and more. Led by the Pacific Battleship Center, the nonprofit behind the Battleship IOWA Museum and LA Fleet Week, this campaign honors service, inspires purpose, and builds connection across generations.

“I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast; for I intend to go in harm’s way.”

-John Paul Jones (Father of the U.S. Navy)

Giving

Honor the courage of those who stood watch at sea and inspire future generations to live with purpose. Your support keeps their stories alive through immersive experiences at the National Museum of the Surface Navy.

Ways to Give

Every gift is recognized on the Quarterdeck of Honor — a lasting tribute to your support, ensuring the legacy of those who served continues to inspire for generations to come.

Learn more about our giving programs ➜

Join us at our annual Freedom of the Seas Awards ➜