Holland America Line President Honors Ketchikan’s American Legion Post 3

Holland America Line President Beth Bodensteiner visited Ketchikan, Alaska, on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, where she met with members of American Legion Post 3 aboard Nieuw Amsterdam and then toured the site of the post’s historic building, which was lost in a fire in 2023.

Bodensteiner joined local leaders and veterans for a small ceremony onboard the ship, recognizing the legacy of Post 3, Alaska’s oldest American Legion post, which has served as a cornerstone of the Ketchikan community for generations.

During the ceremony, she presented a commemorative plaque and shared Crane stationery cards signed by fellow veterans who sailed on Holland America Line’s 2026 Grand World Voyage. The cards, created as messages of appreciation and connection, were delivered directly to members of Post 3 as part of the visit.

Following the event, Bodensteiner and members of Post 3 visited the site of the original building, which was destroyed during an arson fire in 2023, underscoring both the loss of a historic gathering place and the community’s ongoing efforts to rebuild.

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises have committed a combined $175,000 toward rebuilding efforts for Post 3, including an initial $75,000 contribution from Holland America Line supported in part through its On Deck for a Cause charitable program in Alaska.

“American Legion Post 3 represents resilience, service and community, values that deeply align with Holland America Line,” Bodensteiner said. “We are proud to support the rebuilding of this historic post and to spend time with the veterans who continue to bring this community together.”

Holland America Line has a longstanding connection to Alaska and regularly engages with local communities throughout the region. The company has committed financial support to rebuilding efforts for Post 3, alongside broader initiatives that invest in community programs and partnerships across Alaska.