Mayport Navy League is a recognized non-profit organization under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions are tax deductible as otherwise provided by law.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM SEA CADET HEADQUARTERS
SEA CADETS DAY OF GIVING
For 63 years one thing has remained constant: The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps has been transforming lives, giving young people opportunities to build confidence and succeed. Our hands-on program exposes middle and high school-aged cadets to training programs filled with unique, life-changing moments. Sea Cadets inspire many to serve our country and become productive citizens.
2025 CELEBRATION OF VALOR EVENTS AND COMMUNITY GRANT AWARD RECIPIENTS
Mayport Navy League Vice President, Barbara Ives in the photo accepting the award.
The City of Jacksonville kicked off its annual "Celebration of Valor", which honors Veterans through a series of events, ceremonies, and community activities in late October. The celebration culminated on December 13 with Wreaths Across America, a solemn and meaningful tribute to those who served, and the Army Navy Watch Party.
"Here in Jacksonville, our commitment to our Veterans and military families goes far beyond Veterans Day," said Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan. "That is why we are so proud of our Celebration of Valor series, which reflects our deep respect and appreciation our community holds for the men and women who wear the uniform, and for their families who stand beside them."
Leaders from the Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation also joined city leaders to announce this year's recipients of the 2025 Jaguars Community Grants for organizations serving active-duty military and Veterans.
SEA CADETS JANUARY DRILL
On January 10th, 2026, the Mayport Sea Cadets hosted their second Open House of the drill season on base at the unit house. We were joined by two new interested families and most of our current cadets along with their parents. CO Ron Harnek held a parent/cadet meeting to share drill plans for the second half of the season as well as goals for the unit. There was a family BBQ, PT and military bearing exercises, awards and promotions, and a short Winter Training Graduation ceremony for those cadets who attended Camp Blanding over winter break (poor weather on January 4th caused the planned Blanding graduation ceremony to be canceled).
On January 24th, our unit visited the HMS40 helicopter training squadron. LT Dominic "Squatch" Garofalo gave an interactive and informative tour of the MH60R, the facilities, and flight line. Cadets were highly engaged and inspired while being permitted to sit in the pilot cockpit and explore the aircraft cabin. The day also included PT, chow, classroom training, military training as well as morning and afternoon colors.
Our next drill is February 7th, where the cadets will be welcomed to the US Marine Corps Reserve Training base for a full day of extreme activities, generously arranged by MNL Past President Brian Kennedy.
MILITARY MONDAYS-DINNERS TO GO (MMDTG) AND FOOD FARMACY (FF)
On Monday January 12th, the Mayport Navy League kicked off its new year with the 2026 Military Monday- Dinners to Go program. It was a blustery, raw and cold day with threatening rain; however, the volunteers supporting this valued event were warm at heart and ready to distribute food to our active-duty military members and their families.
On this day, 300 meals were distributed.The meals included Chick-Fil-A sandwiches or chicken nuggets, a bag of chips, and a bottled water. As usual, the 300 meals were gone in less than 2 hours. The funds for this event were provided through a MOAA grant.
Special thanks to our volunteers who braved the weather from Fleet Landing, MOAA, and our own MNL members: Tom Atkins, Gayle Holmes, Ed Fahy, Victoria & Dicki Fahy, Chet Davis, Mike Marchetti, Carol Smith, Reid Crawshaw, George Huchting, Brian Kennedy, Tim Jenkins, Pat Kluever, and Barbara Ives.
MILITARY MONDAYS-DINNERS TO GO (MMDTG)
On Monday, December 6th, 2025, Mayport Navy League hosted the Military Mondays-Dinners to Go (MMDTG). To support this special Christmas holiday event, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church members distributed donated toys to military families in the carline, and MOAA and Fleet Landing volunteers, the Mayport Navy League food program committee team, and special guest volunteers from First Command pitched in to help distribute Chick-Fil-A food. It was truly a community effort.
Over 400 hot meals were distributed to active-duty military families, as well as diapers and baby wipes. Additionally, Chick Fil-A had added about 40 extra meals, at no cost to the MNL, which were delivered to the Mayport Naval Station security force at the main gate. The military security gate watch team were appreciative and grateful for their generosity.
Special thanks to the volunteers that without their support, this program could not be done. Volunteers from Fleet Landing were: Chet Davis, Ann Bell, Bruce Osborne, Carol Smith, and Cindy Tomlin; from Naval Station Mayport Tee Trumbull, Erin Sardiello, Shanna Strickland; from First Command Brooke Lazarrinni, and MNL members Pat Kluever, George Huchting, Brian Kennedy.
The next MMDTG is 12 January 2026. If interested in volunteering time to this special food program, please contact Tim Jenkins at radmjenkins@yahoo.com.
FOOD FARMACY
The Food Farmacy is held at the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) Building at 390 Mayport Road the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month.
Mayport Navy League supports this special food program managed by the Jacksonville Military and Veterans Affairs Department by handing out commissary $25 gift cards which supplements the food needs not distributed by the carline.
NS MAYPORT MWR LIBBY SWIM RETIRES
Libby Swim retired from Naval Station Mayport on November 14th, 2025, after nearly four decades of distinguished service in Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) hospitality.
Since 1986, she has been a cornerstone of Mayport's quality-of-life programs, most recently serving as Director of Hospitality for the Ocean Breeze Catering & Conference Center and Chief Petty Officers Club, where she oversaw dining, catering, and special events for Sailors, families, and retirees.
Widely respected for her leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to customer service, Libby played a vital role in creating a welcoming environment that supported the Fleet, the Fighter, and their Families.
In recognition of her impact, she was named MWR Hospitality's Civilian of the Year for FY25 and was frequently honored as part of Mayport's award-winning MWR team.
NS Mayport Commanding Officer, Captain Mike Trumbull presents a certificate of recognition and achievement to Libby Swim.
MNL members attending the ceremony and reception were: George Huchting, Brian Kennedy, Margaret Kennedy, Barbara Ives, and Bob Whitkop.
USNA SIGNING EVENTS
On November 12th, 2025, St. Joseph's Academy in St. Augustine hosted a United States Naval Academy (USNA) Signing event where a recruited senior signed to play baseball at USNA.
The ceremony opened with the National Anthem and a prayer. George Huchting, attended and noted, "Looks like a fine young man from a great school."
At a different location but same event, high school senior Keegan Cornett, attended a USNA signing to play USNA soccer, the grandson of a special Shipmate and honorable man.
The Navy Is The WINNER
USS ST. LOUIS RETURNS AFTER SHORT DEPLOYMENT
The USS St. Louis (LCS 19) returned to Naval Station Mayport, FL, on November 10, 2025, after completing a 2-month surge deployment in the Gulf of America for the U.S. Northern Command.
The mission supported U.S. Northern Command's efforts to reinforce the southern border and defend the homeland through maritime interdiction operations with the U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment.
On a windy and cold day, a large crowd of ship families and friends welcomed the USS St. Louis back to homeport. Additionally, many sailors from adjacently moored ships joined in the welcome home.
In partnership, the U.S. Navy League Mayport Council and MOAA's Historic Mayport chapter had set up a table with snacks and refreshments for the return celebration. A special thanks to the welcoming team of Brian Kennedy, Andy Granuzzo, Mary Kluever and Pat Kluever for supporting the USS St. Louis crew and its families.
SEA CADETS NOVEMBER DRILL
The Mayport Sea Cadets had a busy few days earlier this month. On November 8th, 2025, the Unit supported the Wounded Warrior Carry Forward 5K in Jacksonville.
Despite another early muster (0530) and chilly temperatures, 9 cadets and 6 adult volunteers helped to set up and distribute water to thousands of participants in the annual 5K event. The cadets had an opportunity to witness first-hand the love and support this community has for its wounded and fallen heroes.
Many participants ran in memory of, or for individuals who cannot. Some pushed wounded Veterans in wheelchairs, helped them walk the course, and in a few cases, carried them across the finish line as the crowd cheered. It was a great experience for our cadets, and everyone involved. The event raised nearly $300K for Wounded Veterans.
Just a few days later, and several degrees colder, the cadets marched in the Kingsland GA Veterans Day parade. Temperatures in the mid-30s did not deter our enthusiasm, or the crowd's spirit.
This was the second year in a row that Mayport chose to march in the Kingsland parade, and residents from around the area came out in honor of Veterans and were happy the Mayport Division was there to help celebrate.
Next up for the Unit is our annual Award & Promotion Ceremony and Dinner in early December, followed by a break for the Holidays.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING The Mayport Sea Cadets Are Very Grateful For Your Continued Support
USS ST. LOUIS RETURNS HOME FROM TWO-MONTH DEPLOYMENT
On November 10, 2025 at Naval Station Mayport USS St. Louis (LCS 19) was welcomed back after a two-month deployment with about 60 people on hand. It was chilly with a stiff wind off the water as families started arriving about 11:30. The ship was scheduled to arrive pierside at 11:30, but had been delayed with a new estimated time of arrival of 12:30. The team of four from US Navy League Mayport Council and MOAA's Historic Mayport chapter had set up a table with snacks and refreshments for the family and supporting service members at the tent and chairs provided for the families. Several sailors from adjacent moored ships joined the families to welcome home the crew of USS St. Louis. Thanks to the team of Brian Kennedy, Andy Granuzzo, Mary Kluever and Pat Kluever for supporting the crew and family on their return to home port at Naval Station Mayport!
USS MINNEAPOLIS-SAINT PAUL RETURNS HOME
On October 13, 2025, the USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul (LCS 21), a Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), returned to Naval Station Mayport, concluding its maiden deployment to the U.S. Fourth Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR).
The seven-month deployment showcased the versatility and capabilities of the LCS class within the U.S. Navy's surface fleet, while making an operational impact and achieved historic milestones.
"I am proud of the excellent execution demonstrated by Minneapolis-Saint Paul. Underway for 130 of her 200 days deployed and maintaining an operational availability of more than 90 percent, Minneapolis-Saint Paul marked a decisive moment of self-sufficiency for the class, one we will continue to build upon," said Rear Admiral Joe Cahill, Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic.
USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul is primarily assigned to the Caribbean and during the deployment achieved many successful counter-narcotics interdictions. The crew seized an historic amount of over 7,153 kgs (15,737 lbs.) of narcotics, worth a total of just under $195 million.
USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul is a Littoral Combat Ship that is a fast, agile, mission-focused platform designed to operate in near-shore environments and capable of supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence.
OCTOBER 11, 2025: 250TH NAVY BIRTHDAY BALL AT NAVAL AIR STATION JACKSONVILLE
Sailor for Life Newsletter
The Navy's Retiree newsletter, previously known as Shift Colors, will now be called Sailor for Life. This name change reflects an expanded commitment to provide meaningful content that supports Sailors' post-service life. Whether it's information on benefits, updates on Navy initiatives, or resources for family support, we are here to offer you valuable insights and assistance.
Mayport Navy League Supports Wreaths Across America (WAA)
Each $17 sponsorship supports WAA's yearlong program and places a live, balsam Veteran's wreath on the headstone of an American hero as we endeavor to honor all Veterans laid to rest on Saturday, December 13, 2025, as part of National Wreaths Across America Day.
We are happy to once again participate in the Wreaths Across America Fund Raiser. Please consider contributing to honor those who served and lost their lives.
You can do this while also supporting the Naval Sea Cadets Mayport Division. Our cadets will also be serving at this event on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at the Jacksonville National Cemetery.
"There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities and a country, but we must keep moving forward together. This year, we will share not only the Byers' story of resilience but also the stories of many others who continue to live with purpose every day and have chosen to keep moving forward," said Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America.
"We are so grateful to the good people of this great nation for participating in our mission to Remember, Honor, Teach."
The Navy League of the United States was founded in 1902 with the encouragement of President Theodore Roosevelt. It is unique among military-oriented associations in that it is a civilian
organization dedicated to the education of our citizens, including our elected officials, and the support of the men and women of the sea services and their families.
The objective and purpose of the Navy League is twofold: educational and motivational. We must acquire and display before the citizens of our country information regarding the condition of our naval and maritime forces. We must awaken interest and support in all matters which aid our maritime capabilities.
To this end, the Navy League works closely with the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and US-flag Merchant Marine through a network of
over 240
councils in the U.S. and around the world. The Navy League has
over 35 thousand
active members.
The Navy League supports America's young people through its youth programs, including sponsorship of the US Naval Sea Cadet Corps and the Navy League Scholarship Program. Individual
councils are also involved in promoting youth-oriented activities in their communities such as NJROTC, MCJROTC, and ROTC units along with other recognized youth programs. Local councils
and national headquarters provide over $200,000 in scholarships and awards every year.
Libby Swim retired from Naval Station Mayport on November 14th, 2025, after nearly four decades of distinguished service in Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) hospitality.
Since 1986, she has been a cornerstone of Mayport's quality-of-life programs, most recently serving as Director of Hospitality for the Ocean Breeze Catering & Conference Center and Chief Petty Officers Club, where she oversaw dining, catering, and special events for Sailors, families, and retirees.
Widely respected for her leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to customer service, Libby played a vital role in creating a welcoming environment that supported the Fleet, the Fighter, and their Families.
In recognition of her impact, she was named MWR Hospitality's Civilian of the Year for FY25 and was frequently honored as part of Mayport's award-winning MWR team.
NS Mayport Commanding Officer, Captain Mike Trumbull presents a certificate of recognition and achievement to Libby Swim.
MNL members attending the ceremony and reception were: George Huchting, Brian Kennedy, Margaret Kennedy, Barbara Ives, and Bob Whitkop.
On November 12th, 2025, St. Joseph's Academy in St. Augustine hosted a United States Naval Academy (USNA) Signing event where a recruited senior signed to play baseball at USNA.
The ceremony opened with the National Anthem and a prayer. George Huchting, attended and noted, "Looks like a fine young man from a great school."
At a different location but same event, high school senior Keegan Cornett, attended a USNA signing to play USNA soccer, the grandson of a special Shipmate and honorable man.
Each $17 sponsorship supports WAA's yearlong program and places a live, balsam Veteran's wreath on the headstone of an American hero as we endeavor to honor all Veterans laid to rest on Saturday, December 13, 2025, as part of National Wreaths Across America Day.
We are happy to once again participate in the Wreaths Across America Fund Raiser. Please consider contributing to honor those who served and lost their lives.
You can do this while also supporting the 
"There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities and a country, but we must keep moving forward together. This year, we will share not only the Byers' story of resilience but also the stories of many others who continue to live with purpose every day and have chosen to keep moving forward," said Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America.
"We are so grateful to the good people of this great nation for participating in our mission to Remember, Honor, Teach."
