USS Constitution Sailors Give Naval History Lessons during Austin Navy Week

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kathryn E. Macdonald, USS Constitution Public Affairs

ROUND ROCK, Texas (NNS) -- USS Constitution Sailors taught more than 100 students about their ship's history at Chisholm Trail Middle School in Round Rock, Texas March 21.

Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate (SW) Anthony Costa, Logistics Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Benjamin Hanson, Gas Turbine Systems Electrician Technician 2nd Class (SW/AW) Jose Meza, Culinary Specialist Seaman Sondra Baier and Logistics Specialist Seaman Maria Escamilla gave their presentation as part of Austin Navy Week, March 19-26.

"To be able to educate the younger children, not only the history of USS Constitution, but also the history of the nation and our mission as the U.S. Navy is extremely benefiting," said Meza.

Sailors talked about Constitution's construction, her famous battle with HMS Guerriere during the War of 1812 and the ship in modern times. Finally, they answered questions from students about the Navy.

"I knew a little bit about USS Constitution before the presentation," said DeAnthony Baker, 8th grade student. "It helps bring together what I've learned and read about the ship seeing Sailors from Constitution."

Sailors assigned to Constitution undergo 20 weeks of naval history training, along with additional weekly training. They will also provide history presentations at Clint Small Middle School March 24, and Bedichek Middle School March 25.

"I hope by sharing the history of 'Old Ironsides' and the current state of our Navy will help relate the students to us and show them that we are a global force for good," said Hanson.

Austin is the second of 21 Navy Weeks planned across America in 2011. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.

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 per year.