Tampa Bay Navy League

06/14/2026

06/12/2026

✨ SAVE THE DATE 251st Navy Birthday Ball ✨

It’s finally time! We are proud to officially announce the next chapter of our signature celebration: the Navy League of the United States Tampa Council is hosting Tampa Bay’s Navy Birthday Ball, honoring the U.S. Navy’s 251st birthday during a once-in-a-generation milestone, America 250!

This year’s theme, “Golden Horizons” brings the celebration to the beautiful shores of Clearwater Beach for the first time, creating a truly unforgettable evening of tradition, honor, and celebration.

Location: Sheraton Sand Key Resort
Date: October 17, 2026
Event: Tampa Bay Navy Birthday Ball 2026

https://givebutter.com/TampaBayNavyBall251

Expect an elegant black-tie evening featuring State of FL Representatives, distinguished guests, military leaders, Naval tradition, waterfront ambiance, and a powerful tribute to 251 years of Naval service, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Clearwater’s “golden horizon.”

This is more than a Ball, it is a landmark celebration honoring the United States Navy and America’s 250th birthday in a way Tampa Bay has never seen before.

Sponsorships are needed to make this event a huge success. Please reach out to me if you or your organization would like to be a part of it.

One thing is certain, you will not want to miss it!

GOLDEN HORIZONS - AMERICA 250

06/07/2026

As I return home from the Navy League of the United States National Convention in Norfolk, Virginia, I find myself reflecting on how fortunate I am to be part of such an extraordinary organization.

One of the greatest rewards of attending this year’s convention was strengthening existing friendships and building new ones with truly remarkable people. I had the opportunity to learn from retired Captains, Commanders, Admirals, Master Chiefs, and veterans whose decades of service, leadership, and sacrifice have shaped our nation’s Sea Services.

I never wore a uniform, and I don’t have a military service record to share. I come from a proud Navy family and am honored to be a Coast Guard Mom, but compared to the accomplishments of those around me, it’s easy to feel like I have very little to offer. I love that the organization welcomes patriots who simply want to support the men and women of the Sea Services. It’s amazing how these accomplished leaders treat me as a valued teammate. Their encouragement, kindness, and willingness to share their knowledge reminds me why this organization is so special. They praise the work I am doing with the Tampa Council, and I am continually humbled by it.

Nonprofit work is not easy. Planning events, securing sponsorships, adopting units, and striving for excellence can be stressful and demanding. However, this event increases my commitment to keep learning, improving, and serving with even greater purpose.

One of my favorite moments of the week was a sunset cruise through Norfolk Harbor, offering breathtaking views of the Navy’s fleet. As we passed aircraft carriers, submarines, Littoral Combat Ships, and other vessels against the backdrop of a Virginia sunset, I couldn’t help but reflect on the generations of sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and civilians whose dedication keeps our nation strong. It was a powerful reminder of why the mission of the Navy League matters and why supporting our Sea Services remains such an honor.

We also celebrated outstanding award recipients from the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. One particularly memorable moment was witnessing a Coast Guardsman receive the Douglas Munro Leadership Medal and then was immediately advanced to Chief Petty Officer by Vice Admiral Nathan Moore, Deputy Commandant for Operations. He was from Air Station Clearwater, our adopted unit, which made it even more special for me.

Another highlight was meeting Sea Cadet of the Year, PO2 Kall Meador. At only 14 years old, he already demonstrates tremendous potential. It was a privilege to share some advice about making connections, seeking mentorship, and preparing for future opportunities.

I leave Norfolk inspired, grateful, and energized. The friendships, lessons, and shared commitment to service will stay with me long after the convention concludes. Thank you to everyone who made this week such a meaningful experience.

06/04/2026

Here’s another look back at our Navy 250 celebration. Look for details about the 251st Navy Birthday Ball starting next week.

Save the date: Saturday, October 17, 2026

06/01/2026

As we begin June and kick off our summer season, the Tampa Bay Navy League is taking a moment to look back on the incredible memories made at last year’s 250th Navy Birthday Ball. It was an unforgettable evening celebrating our Navy, our community, and 250 years of service to our nation.

This month also marks the beginning of our rollout for the 251st Navy Birthday Ball! Over the coming weeks, we’ll be announcing plans for our big AMERICA 250 celebration.

We’re currently seeking sponsors and community partners who would like to be part of this premier military celebration. If you’re interested in getting involved, please send me a private message.

Stay tuned—the countdown to the 251st Navy Birthday Ball starts now!

05/16/2026

Last Sunday, on Mother’s Day, I had the honor of attending the commissioning and graduation ceremony for the USF Buccaneer Battalion, where Tampa Bay Navy League Vice President CDR Tom O’Malley, USN (Ret.), presented the Officer’s Sword to the top graduate of the class, GySgt Jordan Barnes, who will soon begin his next chapter serving in the United States Marine Corps. 🇺🇸

I intended to share this sooner, but Mother’s Day quickly became busy with family and celebrations. In many ways, though, it feels especially fitting to post today on Armed Forces Day — a day dedicated to honoring all who serve our nation and those preparing to answer that call.

We are incredibly proud supporters of the USF Buccaneer Battalion and all of our future military leaders. Watching these young men and women take the oath to serve reminds us that the future of our Armed Forces is in capable, dedicated hands.

Congratulations to GySgt Barnes and to every graduate and newly commissioned officer. Your commitment, sacrifice, and leadership inspire us all. Semper Fi and fair winds to each of you as you begin this next journey.

05/05/2026

The Tampa Bay Navy League has been honored to visit high schools across several counties in recent weeks, recognizing outstanding NJROTC cadets with the Navy League of the United States Theodore Roosevelt Medal.

Pictured here is our Treasurer, CAPT (Ret.)Barry Brown, presenting the award to C/CDR Samarrah Valentin of Crystal River High School. Congratulations to Samarrah on this well-earned recognition of her leadership, character, and commitment to service.

I have also had the privilege, along with our VP, CDR (Ret.)Tom O'Malley, Jr., of visiting schools throughout the region to celebrate the remarkable young men and women serving in NJROTC programs.

The Tampa Bay Navy League is proud to support all NJROTC units across the Tampa Bay area. Your dedication, discipline, and patriotism continue to inspire us, and we look forward to cheering you on as you grow into the next generation of leaders.

04/20/2026

Yesterday was an unforgettable day for the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps Suncoast Squadron at The Florida Aquarium

Thanks to the incredible coordination by the Tampa Bay Navy League and the Florida Aquarium, the entire Suncoast Squadron of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps took part in an immersive Oceanography training experience. The cadets received a full tour of the Aquarium with a guide who answered their questions and shared valuable insight about conservation, why it matters, and the different paths they can take to pursue a career in marine science and work with marine life in the future.

Their Petty Officers, 3 Chiefs and 1 LPO, had the opportunity to participate in the unforgettable Sea Trek experience. The Tampa Bay Navy League was also proud to help sponsor lunch for the cadets. After lunch they enjoyed a dolphin tour and saw many dolphins playing, jumping, and interacting with the boat.

Despite the challenges that can come with coordinating a large group, the Plan of the Day was executed flawlessly. Tony Rokita and the entire Aquarium team went above and beyond to ensure every cadet had a meaningful, educational, and exciting experience.

The cadets truly had an amazing time, and it’s clear that the Florida Aquarium continues to be an incredible partner and resource for our community. Their dedication to inspiring young minds and shaping the future of marine science and conservation is something we deeply value. We are especially excited about their upcoming expansion and the opportunities it will bring.

Partnerships like this remind us just how powerful it is when organizations come together to invest in the next generation. The impact of a day like this goes far beyond the experience, it helps spark curiosity, build leadership, and inspire futures. Thank you so much Roger Germann, President and CEO and Tony Rokita for your support and everything you do.

04/18/2026

Friday morning, the Tampa Bay Navy League was proud to take part in the Great Port Cleanup, and what a difference our team made.

Our volunteers tackled an entire homeless camp area, removing a mattress, tires, plastic jugs, buckets, piles of clothing, and countless plastic bags filled with trash. It wasn’t easy work, but it was important work.

In total, our group alone filled over 40 big bags of trash, helping restore and protect our local waterfront.

A huge thank you to everyone who showed up ready to roll up their sleeves and serve our community. This is what teamwork and commitment look like.