
FREEDOM OF THE SEAS

Freedom of the Seas 2021
Protecting and Defending our Oceans
Surface Navy Assn. AwardsOctober 22, 2021
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Freedom of the Seas AwardsOctober 23, 2021
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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 at the Battleship IOWA. The events are 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. Both events are 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 honors those that embody the core principles of the American Surface Navy’s mission 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.

2021 AWARDS
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.
VADM Samuel L. Gravely, Jr. Leadership Award
2021 Supporting Sponsor: Collier Walsh Nakazawa LLP
The VADM Samuel L. Gravely, Jr. Award recognizes leaders who exemplify the trailblazing, courageous service of the late U.S. Surface Navy Vice Admiral.
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.
Global Trade and Communications Award
This award recognizes leaders in commercial shipping and communications that embody a core principle of the Surface Navy in utilizing the ocean for the benefit of the free world.


2021 Freedom of the Seas Award Recipients

Freedom of the Seas
Ambassador (Ret.)
Robert C. O’Brien

VADM Samuel L. Gravely JR.
U.S. Navy Admiral (Ret.)
Michelle Howard

Humanitarian Service
Los Angeles Mayor
Eric Garcetti

Trade & Communications
UPS
A Presidential Dinner
Enjoy a gourmet menu and signature cocktail inspired by special guest Chef Andre Rush, White House chef, and retired serviceman.
Plan of the Evening
- 6:00pm: Waterfront Cocktail Hour on the Bow with Chef Andre Rush
- 7:00pm: Dinner on the Fantail Under the Tent, menu inspired by Chef Andre Rush, White House and Veteran
- 7:30pm: Freedom of the Seas Awards Presentation
- 9:15pm: After-party
- 10:00pm: Event Concludes
PHOTOS FROM 2021 FREEDOM OF THE SEAS AWARDS
Photos credited to Rick Stipa, Battleship IOWA Crewmember.
Thank you to our 2021 Sponsors
TABLE SPONSORS
Shelley Allen and Amb. Bob Kohorst (Ret.)
Steve Shatynski
IN-KIND SPONSORS
Pepsi
Europa Village Wineries
Anchor Steam
Tito’s Handmade Vodka
HOST COMMITTEE
Co-Chairs
Judge Stephen Larson (Ret.)
Larson LLP
Scott Palmer
Palmer Hunter & Hall
Committee*
Alexander B. Gray
American Global Strategies LLC
Alan Jackson
Werksman, Jackson & Quinn
*as of October 12, 2021
YOUR MUSEUM
This museum is a community effort that will require all hands (civilians and veterans) on deck.
How can you help?
- Sign up to be a Plank Owner.
- Contribute (cash, in-kind, stock, real estate, planned giving, etc.)
- Become a volunteer.
- Spread the word.
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
- Have an idea? Let us know!
WANT TO RECEIVE UPDATES?
All you need to do is become a Plank Owner for FREE and receive the following benefits:
- Regular e-updates on the museum.
- Memorialize your or a loved ones service in our Quarterdeck of Honor.
- A commemorative Plank Owner certificate customized with your name.
- Donate and receive even more!
ADDRESS / PHONE
Pacific Battleship Center dba
National Museum of the Surface Navy
250 S. Harbor Blvd.
San Pedro, CA 90731
Phone: 877-446-9261 ext. 747
Pacific Battleship Center is a highly rated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, CA. Currently the organization operated the Battleship IOWA Museum as a top 5 attraction in Los Angeles. More information at https://surfacenavymuseum.org/about-us/.