Freedom of the Seas 2021

Protecting and Defending our Oceans

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.

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

TABLE SPONSORS

Shelley Allen and Amb. Bob Kohorst (Ret.)
Steve Shatynski

IN-KIND SPONSORS

Pepsi
Europa Village Wineries
Anchor Steam
Tito’s Handmade Vodka