Princess and Holland America Pledge $175K for Ketchikan Legion Rebuild
The pledge underscores how major cruise lines are tying Alaska growth to local institutions, reinforcing relationships in ports that anchor their summer business.
Princess Cruises and Holland America Line will provide an initial combined $175,000 in 2026 to help rebuild Joseph T. Craig American Legion Post 3 in Ketchikan, Alaska, after arson destroyed the veterans facility in September 2023. Princess will contribute $100,000 through its foundation, while Holland America has pledged $75,000, including money from its Alaska On Deck for a Cause fundraising program.
Post 3 was founded in 1919 and is Alaska’s oldest American Legion post. Its building had been at the same location for more than 85 years.
Funding structure and local response
“While the loss of our building was devastating, this partnership helps ensure our mission will continue for generations,” said Bill Bolling of American Legion Post 3.
Princess’s portion will be made through its charitable foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity whose work includes community-welfare giving. Holland America’s share includes proceeds from On Deck for a Cause, the line’s noncompetitive 5K fundraising walk in which cruise guests donate to participate.
Gus Antorcha, president of Princess Cruises, said Ketchikan “holds a special place in our Alaska program” and described the gift as support for veterans and families who use the post as a gathering and service location.
“American Legion Post 3 represents resilience, service, and community values that deeply align with Holland America Line,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America.
Princess ties gift to wider Alaska activity
The Ketchikan contribution is also part of a broader Alaska community-giving push by Princess in 2026. When Star Princess opened its inaugural Alaska season from Seattle’s Pier 91 on May 3, the line listed the Post 3 commitment alongside $25,000 for Juneau Flukes, $25,000 for the Skagway Childcare Council and $10,000 for Sitka Trail Works.
Princess’s 2026 Alaska program spans eight ships, 180 departures and 19 destinations.
Princess and Holland America have pledged continued support for the Post 3 rebuild beyond the first-year commitment. The companies have not announced a construction timetable or total rebuilding budget. Additional details on future support are expected in 2027.
