CITIZENS IN SUPPORT OF SEA SERVICES
The US Navy League Massachusetts Bay Council is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with a proud history dating back to 1955.
With nearly 500 members, we actively support our nation’s Sea Services through recognition programs for Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine personnel, as well as NROTC and JROTC units across eastern Massachusetts.
We sponsor eight Sea and League Cadet units, contribute to initiatives like Marine Toys for Tots, and keep our members informed on key legislation—encouraging civic engagement with elected leaders.
Thomas Hennessey
President
Leads the council in advancing our mission to support the sea services and connect our community to the fleet.
Stephen Schnitzer
Clerk
Stephen oversees council governance and records, maintaining the integrity and transparency of our mission-driven operations.
LEADERSHIP
Our council is led by a dedicated body of officers and board members who contribute their time and expertise to guide our mission. Through their service and steady leadership, we provide the support necessary for our sea services and their families in the Massachusetts Bay community.
Robert Gerosa
1st Vice President
Robert provides strategic leadership and support for council programs, ensuring our initiatives reach the heart of the maritime community.
Vice Presidents
John Learson, James McLoughlin, Paul Mahoney, Eleanor Samuels, Ivan Samuels. Our VPs lead various programs and outreach initiatives, connecting the council with key community stakeholders.
Robert Powers
Treasurer
Robert is dedicated to financial stewardship, managing our council’s resources with precision to support our maritime advocacy missions.
Allison Burns
Assistant Treasurer
Allison provides critical support in financial operations, ensuring administrative efficiency and accuracy across all council funding activities.
OUR HERITAGE
Foundation of Purpose
EST. 1902
A Charter is Founded
BOSTON // 1955
Modern Sovereignty
Founded in 1902 with the support of President Theodore Roosevelt, the Navy League of the United States was created to champion a strong maritime force as vital to U.S. security and economic strength. From its earliest days, the organization focused on educating the public, supporting sea service members and their families, and advocating for a capable Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and U.S.-flag Merchant Marin
Founded in 1955 as the Brockton Council, the Massachusetts Bay Council has grown from a small regional organization into a longstanding advocate for the nation’s sea services. Early efforts focused on close partnerships with local military installations—supporting service members and their families, recognizing excellence through awards, and building community connections across Massachusetts.
PRESENT DAY
Today, the US Navy League has more than 37,000 members worldwide. The Massachusetts Bay Council continues to honor our heritage. From sponsoring ship commissionings and educational programs to supporting youth initiatives and longstanding efforts like Toys for Tots, the Council remains committed to honoring service, fostering maritime awareness, and strengthening ties between the military and the communities it serves.
OUR PURPOSE
Our Mission
The Massachusetts Bay Council of the Navy League of the United States stands as a steadfast advocate for the sea services and their families. Through advocacy, national security education, and community engagement, we bridge the gap between military personnel and the citizens they serve, providing unwavering support for a stronger maritime nation.
Empowering Maritime Youth
We fund essential resources for local Sea Cadets, providing the leadership training and maritime education needed for their success.
National Security Advocacy
We inform the public and national leaders about the indispensable role sea power plays in global commerce and national safety.
Why Your Support Matters
Your contributions directly empower our mission to support sea services, educate the community, and inspire the next generation of maritime leaders.
Supporting Sea Service Families
Your support ensures that active-duty personnel and their dependents receive critical assistance and community backing during service.
Fostering Community Ties
Through civic events and outreach, we bridge the gap between the sea services and the civilian population in the Massachusetts Bay area.