5th Annual
FREEDOM OF THE SEAS AWARDS DINNER
250 Years of the Surface Navy
HONORING THE EXTRAORDINARY
Join us for a historic evening at the 5th Annual Freedom of the Seas Awards Dinner, hosted by the National Museum of the Surface Navy at the Battleship IOWA. This prestigious event will honor the outstanding contributions of individuals, students, and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to inspire global awareness of Freedom of the Seas.
CELEBRATING 250 YEARS OF THE SURFACE NAVY
This year, we are proud to commemorate a milestone in naval history – the 250th Anniversary of the Surface Navy. For two and a half centuries, the Surface Navy has stood as a pillar of strength, innovation, and peace in the world’s oceans. During this event, we will reflect on the rich legacy of our surface forces, paying tribute to the brave men and women who have served with valor, while also looking ahead to the future of maritime excellence.
The dinner will feature inspiring keynote speakers, the presentation of awards, and a celebration of the enduring values of leadership, innovation, and service that have defined the Surface Navy.
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: Battleship IOWA, 250 S. Harbor Blvd, San Pedro, CA 90731
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.
2025 Recipient: CDR (Ret.) Victor Vescovo, USN
Prior Recipients: US Surface Forces operating in the Red Sea (2024); Admiral (Ret.) Philip S. Davidson, USN (2023); US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack (2022); Ambassador (Ret.) Robert C. O’Brien (2021).
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.
2025 Recipient: Tanya Acker
Prior Recipients: CMDCM (Ret.) Octavia Harris, USN (2024); Stephanie C. Hill (2023); RADM (Ret.) Sinclair Harris, USN (2022); ADM (Ret.) Michelle Howard, USN (2021); Judge Mablean Ephriam (2019), Bill Coggins (2019), VADM (Ret.) Walter Davis (2019); MGEN (Ret.) Peter Gravett (2018); Antwone Fisher (2017); Noel Massie (2016); Yvette Chappell-Ingram (2015); Dr. Wanda M. Austin (2014).
NEW
International Diplomacy Award
This award recognizes leaders in international diplomacy that embody a core principle of the Surface Navy to represent America’s interests with countries around the world to further relationships, embody policies and resolve issues.
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.
2025 Recipient: Lockheed Martin
Prior Recipients: Dr. Gladys West (2023)
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.
2025 Recipient: Kerri Kasem
Prior Recipients: Philanthropic Leader Lisa Argyros (2024); California State Treasurer Fiona Ma (2023); LA County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs Director Jim Zenner (2022); Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti (2021).
Commerce and Communications Award
Presented by Bruce DD MacRae
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.
Prior Recipients: International Longshore & Warehouse Union (2024); California Trucking Association (2022); UPS (2021)
NEW
Distinguished Service Award
This award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the maritime industry over the course of their distinguished career. This award recognizes a lifetime of exceptional service and leadership, both at sea and on land.
Also Recognizing: Gravely Student Scholarship Essay Winners
Gravely Essay Contest
Presented by Collier Walsh Nakazawa, LLC
Eligible eleventh grade high school students are invited to participate in a scholarship essay contest as a part of Battleship IOWA Museum’s celebration of Vice Admiral Samuel L. Gravely, Jr., a “Man of Many Firsts,” in observance of Black History month. Winners could receive a scholarship ranging from $500 to $2,500.
2025 Freedom of the Seas Award
CDR Victor Vescovo, USN (Ret.)
Undersea Explorer | Equity Investor
2025 VADM Gravely Leadership Award
Tanya Acker
Attorney | Author | Podcast Host
2025 Humanitarian Service Award
Kerri Kasem
Radio & TV host | Activist | Speaker
2025 Innovation and Exploration Award
Lockkheed Martin
AI Innovator
Video Recap: 2024 Freedom of the Seas Awards
