Our Mission
Preserve. Honor. Educate.
The USS Laffey Foundation exists to protect a National Historic Landmark, honor the men who served aboard her, and ensure their story is never forgotten.
Why We Exist
USS Laffey (DD-724) is more than a ship. She is a floating testament to American courage — the survivor of the most intense kamikaze attack ever endured by a single vessel. On April 16, 1945, her crew refused to let her die. The USS Laffey Foundation exists to honor that refusal.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we work in partnership with Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum to fund the preservation, restoration, and interpretation of USS Laffey. Every dollar we raise goes directly toward keeping this National Historic Landmark open, accessible, and structurally sound for future generations.
We are stewards of a story that belongs to all Americans — a story of duty, sacrifice, and the unbreakable will of ordinary men in extraordinary circumstances.
Preserve the Ship
USS Laffey is 80 years old and requires constant care. We fund structural repairs, corrosion control, mechanical restoration, and the ongoing maintenance that keeps her seaworthy and safe for the thousands of visitors who walk her decks each year.
Honor the Crew
The 336 men who served aboard Laffey on April 16, 1945 — and the thousands who served throughout her career — deserve to be remembered by name. We collect oral histories, preserve photographs and documents, and maintain a living memorial to those who gave their lives.
Educate the Public
We support educational programming that brings Laffey's history to life for students, veterans, families, and history enthusiasts. From school field trips to veteran recognition events, we ensure the lessons of her service reach every generation.
"She is worth saving. She is worth remembering."
What We Believe
Stewardship
We are entrusted with a National Historic Landmark. We take that responsibility seriously — every decision we make is guided by our obligation to future generations.
Integrity
We are transparent about how donations are used, how decisions are made, and what we are working toward. The crew of Laffey served with honor; we do the same.
Gratitude
Everything we do flows from gratitude — for the men who served, for the donors who give, and for the community that keeps this story alive.
Urgency
The ship is aging. The veterans are gone. The window to preserve this history is closing. We act with the urgency that moment demands.
About the Foundation
The USS Laffey Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Columbia, South Carolina. We are governed by a volunteer board of directors and operate in close partnership with Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.
All contributions to the USS Laffey Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Our EIN is 41-3685663.
We are not affiliated with the USS Laffey Association (Laffey.org), though we share a deep respect for their mission of connecting former crew members and their families. We encourage all who are interested in the human story of the Laffey to visit their site.
Join the Mission
Whether you give, volunteer, or simply spread the word — you are part of keeping this story alive. The crew of USS Laffey held the line. Help us hold theirs.