Captain Phillips to be Honored at Seafarers' House 25th Anniversary Gala

On April 26^th Seafarers’ House will celebrate the 2014 Golden Compass Honoree, international seafaring hero Captain Richard Phillips. Seafarers’ House, a multi-faith ministry providing services to seafaring men and women, will be hosting a 25^th Anniversary Gala to celebrate the organization’s 25 years of service to the community. The event will take place at the Westin Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Captain Richard Phillips became the focus of the world’s attention in 2009, when his ship was hijacked by Somali pirates. After a five-day standoff in which he displayed exemplary bravery to save his ship, its cargo and his men, Phillips was freed.  He wrote a book about the experience, A Captain’s Duty: Somali Pirates, Navy SEALs, and Dangerous Days at Sea, which was recently turned into an Oscar-nominated blockbuster film starring Tom Hanks.

“We are beyond thrilled to honor Captain Phillips in conjunction with our celebration of our 25^th Anniversary” said Seafarers’ House Executive Director Lesley Warrick.  “The story of Captain Phillips has done much to draw into the limelight the always fast-paced and often challenging life of merchant mariners who do so much to keep global commerce and international aid moving.  Seafarers move 90 percent of the world’s commerce and are very rarely recognized for the hard work and often difficult circumstances of their profession.  We’re looking forward to celebrating Captain Phillips achievements, as well as a successful 25 years of service to the maritime community.”

Seafarers’ House was honored as the 2012 International Seafarers’ Center of the Year – the first American center to receive such recognition from the International Committee on Seafarers’ Welfare.

The gala evening will begin at 6:00 pm with a cocktail reception and silent auction offering fine wines, artwork, cruises, and more. Dinner and dancing will follow at 8:00 pm, and the festivities will culminate with the Golden Compass presentation and Captain Phillips’ remarks. Over 400 guests are expected to attend.

Sponsorship level tables, journal advertisements, underwriting opportunities and raffle tickets are available. For more information please visit www.seafarershouse.org/events.