USS Constitution Participates in Special Olympics Fundraiser

By Seaman Shannon Heavin, USS Constitution Public Affairs

HULL, Mass. (NNS) -- USS Constitution Sailors participated in a fundraising event for the Special Olympics Massachusetts (SOMA) at Nantasket Beach in Hull, Mass., Feb. 26.

Sailors, along with more than 1,000 other participants, dove into the freezing cold water of Nantasket beach as part of the 13th annual "Passion Plunge", a fundraiser to help provide year-round training and competition for athletes of SOMA.

"My experience has been invigorating, not just because of the freezing water but for the cause," said Constitution Fireman Margaret Hoss.

The Passion Plunge operates with participants raising money for the annual plunge, through the collection of donations from family, friends and co-workers. Sailors helped contribute to Passion Plunge's total fundraising efforts of more than $250,000.

"USS Constitution Sailors continually give back to the community year-round, and we hope to find additional volunteer opportunities in the future," said Lt. Cmdr. Stephen Shirley, USS Constitution executive officer. "It's a joy and privilege to see our Sailors 'plunge in' at an event such as this to assist the Special Olympics organization. Giving back to the community in such a direct manner is very beneficial to our mission and our Sailors."

SOMA aims to provide opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities in developing physical fitness, preparation for entry into school and community programs, and sharing in friendships of other Special Olympics athletes.

"This event was wonderful with a large turn-out," said Megan Hoffman, a volunteer director. "The support from police and military forces brings the local community together. In making the community stronger, we can achieve our goals to help others in need."

The event also took place at Revere Beach in Revere, Mass., the same day.

Constitution participates in more than 50 community relations projects annually, totaling more than 7,000 hours of community service in 2010. The ship is the recipient of the 2010 Commander, Navy Region Middle Atlantic Good Neighbor Flagship award for small shore commands and also received the 2009 and 2010 President's Volunteer Service Award.

Constitution is located in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston. She is the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat and welcomes more than 500,000 visitors a year.