After receiving your flag I pondered an appropriate venue to fly it from. While admiring the
USS Constitution one day (in Boston Harbor), it hit me – fly the flag from the ship that is the
historical embodiment of what it means to be an American warrior – discipline, self sacrifice,
honor, devotion to duty, courage. “Old Ironsides” was also built in Boston from oak trees
found in New England forests, so the ship has a special meaning for Massachusetts
residents. In many ways, the soldiers of the 173rd are kindred spirits to the sailors that
manned this storied ship during its amazing combat deployments far from home.
USS Constitution one day (in Boston Harbor), it hit me – fly the flag from the ship that is the
historical embodiment of what it means to be an American warrior – discipline, self sacrifice,
honor, devotion to duty, courage. “Old Ironsides” was also built in Boston from oak trees
found in New England forests, so the ship has a special meaning for Massachusetts
residents. In many ways, the soldiers of the 173rd are kindred spirits to the sailors that
manned this storied ship during its amazing combat deployments far from home.
She is the oldest warship afloat in the world. Launched October 21, 1797, from a shipyard
just a stone’s throw from her berth today, she was a marvel of warfare science and America’
s most advanced diplomatic machine. A remarkably thick hull incorporating Live Oak, a
substance unique to America at the time, contributed to “Old Ironsides’” cumulative 33-0
battle record. The sweat, dedication and sacrifice of her U.S. Navy crew virtually ensured it.
Crewed, maintained and operated by the U.S. Navy to this day, USS Constitution stands as
an active reminder of America’s martime heritage, its struggle to preserve its freedom, and
national pride.”
just a stone’s throw from her berth today, she was a marvel of warfare science and America’
s most advanced diplomatic machine. A remarkably thick hull incorporating Live Oak, a
substance unique to America at the time, contributed to “Old Ironsides’” cumulative 33-0
battle record. The sweat, dedication and sacrifice of her U.S. Navy crew virtually ensured it.
Crewed, maintained and operated by the U.S. Navy to this day, USS Constitution stands as
an active reminder of America’s martime heritage, its struggle to preserve its freedom, and
national pride.”
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