We invite you to join us for an extraordinary black‑tie evening in support of America’s veterans at the 2026 VetsBoats Gala.

Date: November 11, 2026
Time: 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: St. Francis Yacht Club, San Francisco 

The VetsBoats Veterans Day Gala is an exclusive evening at one of the Bay Area's premier waterfront venues, bringing together business leaders, philanthropists, veterans, and community leaders united by a shared commitment to those who have served.

The evening features distinguished military and civic leaders, Emmy Award–winning hosts, and veterans sharing personal stories of resilience, illustrating how sailing, camaraderie, and community help restore confidence, purpose, and connection long after military service concludes.

Entrees:

Seared Ora King Salmon (GF); Herbs, Parsnip Puree, Asparagus, Chive Beurre Blanc

BBQ Tempeh with Corn and Charred Bok Choy and Onion Jam

Throughout the evening, guests will experience a premium program featuring distinguished military leadership, Emmy award–winning hosts, and authentic veteran storytellers who will share how time on the water is transforming lives through camaraderie, confidence, and renewed purpose.

Event Leadership

Honorary Chairman
Vito Bialla
Honorary Chair, 2026 VetsBoats Gala

Vito Bialla is a Vietnam combat veteran, Bronze Star with Valor and Purple Heart recipient, and successful entrepreneur whose career spans consulting, executive search, and venture investment. His passion for sailing has taken him to the top tiers of international competition, including wins at the Volvo Cup and Pacific Coast Championships, a top‑five finish at the Etchells Worlds, and top‑ten rankings in North American Laser competition. Vito’s lifelong commitment to veterans and the sailing community aligns deeply with VetsBoats’ mission and helps anchor this evening.

Guest of Honor
Admiral John M. Richardson, USN (Ret.)
31st Chief of Naval Operations

ADM Richardson served 37 years in the U.S. Navy, culminating as the nation's highest ranking naval officer, leading 600,000 personnel, a $160B budget, and the global readiness of the U.S. Navy.

Distinguished Military Leader: Former submarine commander, Director of Naval Reactors overseeing more than 100 nuclear propulsion plants, and recipient of the Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale Inspirational Leadership Award.

Respected National & Corporate Leader: Following retirement, joined the boards of The Boeing Company, Constellation Energy, and BWX Technologies, while continuing to develop leaders and advance national security through prominent nonprofit and academic organizations.

Master of Ceremonies
Joe Vazquez
Four-time Emmy Award–Wining Former TV News Reporter

Joe Vazquez is a four‑time Emmy Award–winning former television news reporter who now serves as a communications strategist, helping leaders and organizations tell their stories with clarity and impact. After 35 years of reporting, he brings his experience, presence, and storytelling skill to the VetsBoats Gala, where he will guide guests through an evening of powerful narratives, live auction moments, and heartfelt recognition.

Auctioneer
Liam Mayclem
Emmy Award–Winning Radio & TV Personality

Liam Mayclem is an Emmy Award–winning host known for his work on CBS’s Eye on the Bay and as “The Foodie Chap” on KCBS Radio. A sought‑after fundraising auctioneer for leading Bay Area charities, he brings energy, humor, and professionalism to benefit evenings across the region. At the VetsBoats Gala, Liam will lead a high‑impact live auction designed to engage guests and maximize support for veteran‑centered sailing programs.

Founder and Executive Director
Terry Moran
Founder and Executive Director, VetsBoats Foundation

Terry Moran is a 28‑year Navy veteran and former F‑14 Tomcat pilot who continued his career in unmanned systems command, aerospace program management, and professional aviation. After a serious flying accident and subsequent combat deployments, he found healing and renewed purpose through sailing and wooden boat restoration—experiences that inspired the creation of VetsBoats. Today, Terry leads VetsBoats Foundation to provide veterans with hands‑on skills, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of mission through maritime programs and the restoration of the 68‑foot 1938 wooden cutter Clover.

The VetsBoats Veterans Day Gala is the Foundation's premier annual fundraising event, supporting year-round sailing, marine education, and boat restoration programs that help veterans reconnect, recover, and thrive.

We invite you to support this mission by joining us as a guest, hosting a table, or becoming a corporate sponsor. Your participation directly funds veteran programs and helps expand VetsBoats' community of philanthropic and corporate partners committed to serving those who have served our nation.

If you can’t attend we invite you to join the VetsBoats community in this special work:

VetsBoats is a 501(c)3 charitable organization and contributions are tax-deductible. EIN 46-4194065