Two Missions. One Historic Journey.
Honoring Those Who Served. Supporting Their Families. Inspiring Future Generations.
What is Anchors & Angels?
The Anchor
Preserving USS LCS-102 for future generations by securing a permanent home. This historic vessel, the last of her kind, would serve as a lasting monument to naval heritage and the brave souls who served aboard her.
The Angels
Partner charities supporting servicemembers and their families. Every donation helps provide crucial support to military families during the ship's historic journey across America.
The Anchor: Saving the Last Mighty Midget
Last of Her Kind
Sole surviving LCS warship
Proven in Combat
Earned battle star in Okinawa 1945
Young Crew's Ship
Crew average age 19–20
Historic Legacy
80 years of service history
A Veteran's Dream: A Race Against Time
The clock is ticking to secure a vital piece of American history, a mission that began three decades ago and now rests on the shoulders of two of its last living proponents.
30 Years Ago (1995)
The effort began when hundreds of World War II sailors launched a campaign to save their ship, the USS LCS-102.
18 Years Ago (2007)
After a 12-year struggle, an Act of Congress finally brought the ship back to the United States, where it has served as a floating museum ever since.
Today
The final push is on. The last two remaining veterans of the campaign are fighting to ensure the ship has a permanent home and a long life.
With two centuries of life and memory between them, their time to complete this mission is precious.
- Secretary J. William Middendorf II: Age 100
- Ship's Cook Ed Desmond: Age 99
Their ultimate goal is to see the USS LCS-102 preserved as a centerpiece for our Nation's 250th Birthday celebration. Their vision is clear: to honor the service and sacrifice of America's greatest generation while inspiring all future ones. The time to make their dream a reality is now.
The Angels: A Mission with Heart
Our Angels mission goes beyond preserving history it's about supporting the families who continue to serve our nation today. As USS LCS-102 makes her historic journey across America, we're partnering with charities that provide vital support to military families facing challenges both seen and unseen.
We’re also eager to connect with any charities that share this mission and want to be part of making a greater impact together.
A National Celebration of Service
Follow USS LCS-102 on her coast-to-coast voyage through the Panama Canal, serving as the "Olympic Torch" for the Nation's 250th birthday celebration in 2026.
Mare Island - Vallejo, CA
Journey Begins
San Diego, CA
Pacific Coast
Panama Canal
Historic Passage
Multiple East Coast Stops
Jacksonville, Norfolk and Baltimore
Philadelphia
Final Destination
America’s 250th Birthday
In 2026, America will celebrate its 250th birthday. USS LCS-102 will serve as a floating symbol of naval heritage, carrying the torch of service from coast to coast and inspiring a new generation of Americans to honor those who served before them.
Be Part of the Legacy
Your donation helps preserve naval history and supports military families. All contributions are tax-deductible and make a lasting impact.
Donate by Check
If making large donations, we encourage you to help us avoid online transaction fees by mailing a check directly to:
Landing Craft Support Museum, C/o Dennis A. Steenbergen, Secretary, 7345 W. Lakeside Dr., Littleton, CO 80125
All donations are tax deductible, we are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.