Friday, October 20, 2017
We have every reason to be proud of Massachusetts’ place in the history of our great nation. In so many ways we have led the country from the very beginning with the war to win our independence having started right here. In support of the Revolutionary Army our state also was the birthplace of the American Navy.
Yesterday, I had the great pleasure of helping to show appreciation and praise for the men and women who command and sail the USS Constitution. “Old Ironsides”; the turns 220 years of age on Saturday and her skipper and several other navy officers came to the Senate Chamber to celebrate this amazing vessel’s heritage.
The Constitution is the oldest commissioned ship afloat in the world, named by General George Washington, the three-masted frigate just sailed for the first time today since restoration work which started in 2014.
By tradition, the birthday cake was cut with a sword by the oldest sailor and the youngest sailor. I hope you will visit this ship and learn about its magnificent history.
