Freedom of the Seas 2024

HONORING THE EXTRAORDINARY

Recognizing exceptional individuals and organizations that inspire global awareness of Freedom of the Seas.

October 19, 2024
6:00pm

In Honor of the Battle of Leyte Gulf

The Freedom of the Seas Awards is the premiere annual event of the National Museum of the Surface Navy and the Battleship IOWA. The event is held in honor of the Battle of Leyte Gulf anniversary, the largest naval battle of World War II and in the history of the world.

The Freedom of the Seas Awards gala is held aboard the iconic Battleship IOWA, a Leyte Gulf veteran, at the Port of Los Angeles and includes a delicious meal prepared by local award-winning chefs. The awards honor those that embody the core principles of America’s Surface Navy: to protect and defend our oceans for the benefit of the free world.

Invited and attending guests include top leaders from the fields of education, veterans, community, industry, government, and military.

Attendees and Invited Guests Include:

• Leadership and representatives from military, government, maritime, and industry
• Leadership and representatives from education, veterans, community, and youth
• Media and influencers

Freedom of the Seas Award

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.

2024 Recipient: TBA
2023 Recipient: Admiral Philip S. Davidson, USN (Ret.)
2022 Recipient: US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack
2021 Recipient: Ambassador (Ret.) Robert C. O’Brien

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.

2024 Recipient: Command Master Chief Octavia Harris, USN (Ret.)
2023 Recipient: Stephanie C. Hill
2022 Recipient: Rear Admiral Sinclair Harris, USN (Ret.)
2021 Recipient: Admiral Michelle Howard, USN (Ret.)
2019 Recipient: Vice Admiral Walter Davis, USN (Ret.)
2018 Recipient: Maj. Gen. Peter Gravett, USA (Ret.)
2017 Recipient: Antwone Fisher
2016 Recipient: Noel Massie
2015 Recipient: Yvette Chappell-Ingram
2014 Recipient: Dr. Wanda Austin

Innovation And 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.

2023 Recipient: Dr. Gladys West

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.

2024 Recipient: Philanthropic Leader Lisa Argyros
2023 Recipient: California State Treasurer Fiona Ma
2022 Recipient: LA County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs Director Jim Zenner
2021 Recipient: Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti

Freedom of the Seas Award

VADM Samuel L. Gravely Jr. Award

Humanitarian Service Award

U.S. Naval Surface Forces in the Red Sea

Octavia Harris

Command Master Chief, USN (Ret.), Veterans Affairs and Women’s Leadership Advocate

Lisa Argyros

Philanthropic Leader
Argyros Family Foundation

UNDERWRITING SPONSORS