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Looking Back on Fiscal Year 2025: A Year of Growth, Community, and Preservation

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As 2025 comes to a close, we’re proud to reflect on the remarkable impact made possible by your support of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Because of you, historic aircraft have been restored, exhibits have been strengthened, and students from across South Carolina have stepped aboard for life-changing learning experiences. All donations and memberships support these efforts through the USS Yorktown Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit fundraising partner for Patriots Point.

 

Strengthening Our Community

This past fiscal year, the Foundation launched the museum’s new Friends of the Fleet membership program, welcoming nearly 600 households from 29 states and raising almost $85,000 in support of our mission. Members enjoyed exclusive events like Yorktown Movie & Game Night and behind-the-scenes tours, creating a stronger, more connected community of Patriots Point supporters.

Two men restoring aircraft on the flight deck of the USS Yorktown.

 

Fueling Projects Through Donor Generosity
Thanks to the generosity of our members, donors, and corporate partners, the Foundation invested over $279,000 in projects that preserve, enhance, and share the stories that make Patriots Point so special:

  • Completed Operation Restoration, a multi-year effort to restore all 12 historic aircraft on the Yorktown’s Flight Deck.
  • Provided more than $23,000 in student scholarships, bringing 647 students aboard for transformative learning experiences.
  • Restored the CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter and funded enhancements to the Vietnam Experience exhibit.
  • Commemorated the 80 anniversary of the Battle of Okinawa aboard the USS Laffey, honoring those who served by dressing the ship with new signal flags.
  • Supported the USS Laffey Work Party, a week-long volunteer effort to clean, repair, and restore the ship inside and out.
  • Strengthened engagement through programs like the Engage Brigade employee initiative and volunteer appreciation support.
The USS Laffey decorated with flags and guests.

 

Launching New Traditions
Last October, the Foundation hosted its inaugural Holes Fore Heroes Charity Golf Tournament, raising more than $70,000 to honor service and support our mission. Building on that momentum, the second annual tournament in 2025 surpassed FY25’s revenue and continues to grow as one of our signature annual events.

A man plays golf for the Holes Fore Heroes tournament.

 

Looking Ahead
In 2026, Patriots Point will celebrate 50 years overlooking Charleston Harbor, marking half a century of honoring the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who served our nation. The Foundation is proud to play a part in this milestone through new programs, events, and opportunities that continue to preserve and share this incredible legacy.

If you’d like to learn more, get involved, or make a gift, visit the USS Yorktown Foundation page.  

Together, we are honoring the past, inspiring the future, and ensuring the stories of service and sacrifice at Patriots Point live on.