In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck is joined by Marc Onetto, retired Amazon executive and board member of L’Hermione – La Frégate de la Liberté, and Domitille Marchal Lemoine, U.S. representative of Friends of Fondation de France. Together, they share the remarkable story of L’Hermione, the ship that brought the Marquis de Lafayette back to America in 1780 to help win the Revolutionary War — and the urgent effort now underway to save her modern replica. Marc traces the ship’s historical significance, explaining how L’Hermione became a living symbol of Franco-American friendship. Built as the fastest vessel in the French Navy, she carried Lafayette across the Atlantic to announce France’s official alliance with the American Revolution — a turning point in the nation’s fight for independence. Domitille and Marc then describe the decade-long effort to rebuild the ship by hand in Rochefort, France, its triumphant 2015 voyage to the United States, and the devastating wood fungus that now threatens its survival. With restoration costs rising and time running short, they make a compelling case for renewed transatlantic support — not just to repair a ship, but to preserve a shared legacy of liberty and generosity. The conversation explores: The historic role of L’Hermione in bringing Lafayette to America during the Revolution How the replica was constructed and sailed across the Atlantic in 2015 The urgent fundraising campaign to repair severe hull damage caused by fungus The U.S.–France partnership in restoring and relaunching the Freedom Frigate About the Guests Marc Onetto is a retired Amazon executive and board member of L’Hermione – La Frégate de la Liberté, the French nonprofit dedicated to preserving and sailing the legendary ship. A passionate advocate for Franco-American friendship, Marc combines business acumen with historical enthusiasm, helping lead the effort to ensure L’Hermione sails again. Domitille Marchal Lemoine represents Friends of Fondation de France in the U.S. and leads the American fundraising campaign to restore L’Hermione. Based in New York, she works to connect donors, cultural institutions, and history enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic in this vital preservation project. 📧 Contact Marc and Domitille:
[email protected] 🌐 Learn more: www.friendsoffdf.org Key Takeaways L’Hermione symbolizes the enduring friendship between France and the United States. The ship’s wooden hull has suffered major damage from fungus, requiring immediate repair. The restoration campaign seeks $5 million to complete critical work and relaunch the ship. Donations can be made through Friends of Fondation de France, a U.S. 501(c)(3) partner. Supporting L’Hermione honors centuries of shared history, generosity, and freedom. Subscribe to the Charitable Giving News for You Newsletter for more stories, resources, and tips: Subscribe to Charitable Giving News for You.
