News and Intel from Navy SEAL Museum San Diego

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear friends and supporters,

April marked another important step forward for the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego. We reached a major milestone with the Port’s approval to advance consideration of our future waterfront museum. We were also proud to welcome a delegation from the Invictus Games Foundation as part of San Diego’s bid to host the 2029 Games.

Across the museum, we are building momentum through meaningful programs, stronger partnerships, and growing community engagement. Thank you for your continued support as we carry this progress into the months ahead.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Captain Brian “Beef” Dreschler, USN (Ret.)
Executive Director, Navy SEAL Museum San Diego

MUSEUM UPDATES

The Big Exchange

From May 1-18, the Big Exchange gives our members reciprocal admission at more than 60 museums, historic sites, gardens, and more throughout San Diego County. Simply show proof of your museum membership to visit the participating museums for free.

If you don’t have a membership with us, now is a great time to get one.

Learn more about this program and our memberships below.

We’re Expanding

The Navy SEAL Museum San Diego has reached an exciting milestone, with the Board of Port Commissioners approving the initial concept design for its future waterfront home at 1220 Pacific Highway.

Building on the success of the current Showcase location, the proposed 85,000-square-foot museum will feature immersive galleries, educational spaces, and a memorial component.

The project will be privately funded, with a capital campaign launching soon. We look forward to sharing ways you can be part of this next chapter.

Explore the design below.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Invictus Games Foundation

The Navy SEAL Museum San Diego recently hosted the Invictus Games Foundation Committee as part of San Diego’s bid to host the 2029 Invictus Games, marking the event’s 15th anniversary since its founding in 2014. The international, Paralympic-style competition celebrates wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans through sport and recovery.

During their visit, the committee toured the Museum and received a formal presentation, highlighting its potential as a venue for select events should San Diego be chosen as the host city. The visit also drew media attention, with committee members participating in multiple on-site interviews with local news outlets.

The Navy’s Bay Bridge Run/Walk

The Navy SEAL Museum San Diego is proud to sponsor the Navy’s 39th Bay Bridge Run/Walk. Sign up to participate in the race or come see us at our booth the morning of Sunday, May 17th at Tidelands Park, Coronado.

Click the button below for race information.

FIELD TRIPS

High School Lacrosse Team Field Trip

The Museum recently hosted a high school lacrosse team from Southern California. Players and coaches toured the museum and participated in the immersive Virtual Reality Navy SEAL Xperience and the SEAL Delivery Vehicle (SDV) Immersive Exhibit, bringing key lessons to life in a dynamic way. The group also had the opportunity to hear firsthand from our knowledgeable docents, who shared powerful stories and historical insights that deepened the experience.

NSMSD PARTNERS

MUSEUM IN THE MEDIA

KPBS Museum a Month

The Navy SEAL Museum San Diego was chosen for the KPBS series Museum a Month for the month of April. This upcoming spotlight will highlight our mission, exhibits, and the stories of the warriors we honor, and the history and legacy of Naval Special Warfare.

Watch the spotlight below.

Naval Special Warfare and the Space Program

This April, NASA launched the Artemis II mission, sending astronauts on a historic journey to enter lunar orbit before safely returning to Earth.

As the crew prepared for their return, retired Captain Bob Rohrbach, a docent at the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego, appeared on CBS8 San Diego to share his experience supporting the recovery operations for the Apollo 11 and 14 missions.

Check out the video below to hear his story.

Plan your visit to the museum to hear more stories from our dedicated docents, each with a unique perspective.

DEVELOPMENT UPDATES

Looking for a simple way to make a lasting impact on the
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego?

If you’ve been looking for a meaningful way to make a lasting impact on the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego, a bequest may be a great fit. A bequest is a gift made through your will or trust, and it can be one of the most flexible ways to support the Museum more generously than you may have thought possible, while still protecting your day-to-day cash flow.

Here are five reasons to consider a charitable bequest:

1. 1. It’s simple.
      Simply name the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego as a beneficiary in your will or trust. You can leave a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your assets, or the remainder of an account or your estate.
   2. You’ll invest in your legacy.
      Supporting the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego is a meaningful way to build and sustain your legacy, helping ensure our mission continues for years to come.
   3. You can change your mind.
      A bequest is revocable, meaning if your needs change down the road, you can adjust your plans and still use the assets during your lifetime.
   4. You’ll feel happier.
      Numerous studies show that giving can create a positive, “feel-good” response in the brain.
   5. You’ll reduce your taxable estate.
      A gift to a qualified charitable organization like the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego may reduce estate taxes your heirs could otherwise owe.

We Can Help

Interested in including the Museum in your plans, or just want to learn more? Contact the Advancement Department at (916) 301-2208.

We’d be glad to talk through options and help you make a gift that fits your goals.

PARTNER SPOTLIGHTS

Looking for a Tasty Bite and
Flavorful Brew?
Then Try This Navy SEAL Brewery

(Conveniently located near the Museum.)

Protector Brewery, San Diego’s first organic brewery, was founded by Navy SEAL veteran Sean Haggerty, who discovered a passion for craft beer during his deployments.

With the support of his wife, Cory, he decided to focus on organic brewing, aiming to create a legacy of sustainability and health within the beer community. Protector Brewery uses only USDA-certified organic ingredients grown in the USA, and their packaging is 100% recyclable.

Since opening in 2017, the brewery has expanded its reach while staying deeply connected to the local community and craft beer culture. They also occasionally support events in the area through catering and beverage service.

We’re proud to be part of the same neighborhood and value having them as a local partner.

Looking for a Tasty Bite and Flavorful Brew?
Then Try This Navy SEAL Brewery

(Conveniently located near the Museum.)

Protector Brewery, San Diego’s first organic brewery, was founded by Navy SEAL veteran Sean Haggerty, who discovered a passion for craft beer during his deployments.

With the support of his wife, Cory, he decided to focus on organic brewing, aiming to create a legacy of sustainability and health within the beer community. Protector Brewery uses only USDA-certified organic ingredients grown in the USA, and their packaging is 100% recyclable.

Since opening in 2017, the brewery has expanded its reach while staying deeply connected to the local community and craft beer culture. They also occasionally support events in the area through catering and beverage service.

We’re proud to be part of the same neighborhood and value having them as a local partner.

Anytime is the Right Time to Give the Gift of NSW History!

Do you have a history buff in your household? Do you have a current or former NSW operator in your life?

Did you know that Navy SEAL Museum’s photo archives are online to view and available for sale?

Check out our online library and search key words to find the right image for you or a loved one.