As the Association of the United States Navy (AUSN) approaches its 75th anniversary in 2029, we are launching the transformational "We Have the Watch" campaign. This $10 million initiative will honor our past accomplishments, strengthen our present objectives, and secure our future mission by funding crucial pilot programs to support our Sailors and establishing a new National Museum of the United States Navy in Washington, D.C.
The Navy Needs Us
With the threats and complexities our Nation and our Navy face today, the Association of the United States Navy is being called upon, once again, to help provide the “margin of excellence” in support of our Sailors. The Navy has identified specific areas of need that AUSN is uniquely positioned to meet.
This is where our strategic partnership between the Navy Museum Development Foundation and AUSN can make a real difference.
“As a member of AUSN’s Board for six years, and its chairman for four years, I have never been more confident in our ability to make a positive difference in the lives of our Sailors and their families,” said Daniel Feliz, AUSN chairman of the board.
Advancing Ao with Pillars of Resilience
Similar to how the Navy measures and funds platforms for “Operational Availability” or “Ao,” Navy leadership supports AUSN launching a series of initiatives. Specifically, your support will fund pilot programs designed to address the five key pillars of resilience:
Mental Health Support: Confidential counseling services, stress management workshops, and resilience training.
Spiritual Guidance: Chaplaincy services, faith-based resources, and interfaith dialogue.
Physical Fitness: State-of-the-art fitness training, nutrition education, and tailored wellness programs.
Financial Assistance: Financial literacy education and resources to alleviate financial burdens.
Social Resilience: Relationship counseling and ties to community activities.
These programs aim to reduce destructive behaviors, improve public perception of naval service, drive down suicidal ideations, and ultimately enhance recruitment and retention for our Navy.
Symposium to Support Culture of Excellence
Additionally, AUSN will launch a symposium in Fall 2025 entitled, "Supporting the Culture of Excellence" to facilitate coordination with Navy programs and non-profits, determine metrics for the pilot projects, and identify innovative enablers.
Raise the Navy’s Profile with New National Museum of the U.S. Navy
Finally, AUSN’s campaign will help establish the new National Museum of the United States Navy in our nation's capital in partnership with the Navy Museum Development Foundation (NMDF). This Museum will feature:
Interactive Exhibits: Immersive displays showcasing naval technology, pivotal battles, and daily life at sea.
Educational Programs: Engaging programs for students, researchers, and the public to foster a deeper understanding of the Navy's role in shaping our nation's history.
Community Engagement: A gathering place for veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families to connect and share experiences.
Honoring Our Heroes: Paying tribute to the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country.
We Need Your Support
As we begin to publicize the campaign, you may see social media posts on both AUSN and NMDF channels and other promotions. We encourage sharing this news with anyone who has a heart for the Navy and its future. Stay tuned for more to come!