Annual Nimitz Dinner with Robert M. Gates at St. Mary’s Catholic Church

The Admiral Nimitz Foundation will host its Annual Nimitz Dinner on Wednesday, November 11, from 5–9:30 pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fredericksburg. This signature fundraiser for the National Museum of the Pacific War will feature Robert M. Gates, the 22nd United States Secretary of Defense, as the guest speaker. The evening will offer insights into national security, geopolitics, leadership, and public service.

Gates served as Secretary of Defense from 2006 to 2011 under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Before joining the Pentagon, he served as president of Texas A&M University and spent nearly 27 years with the CIA, including a term as Director of Central Intelligence. He has also served on the National Security Council staff and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Gates is currently Chancellor of William & Mary and the author of four books on leadership, national security, and public service.

Several sponsorship options are available. Platinum sponsorship tables cost $20,000 and include a table for eight with VIP seating and parking, a memorial wall plaque or commemorative brick, a private reception and photo with Gates, and program recognition. Gold sponsorship tables cost $15,000 and include a table for eight, a private behind-the-scenes tour of the George H.W. Bush Gallery for eight, a private reception with Gates, and program recognition. Silver sponsorship tables cost $5,000 and include a table for eight with preferred seating, a Walk of Honor brick, a cocktail party reception, and sponsor recognition in the program. Individual tickets are available for $275 per person.

Tickets and sponsorship information are available at https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/nimitz-dinner-2026.