On our trip to Boston last month we made a visit to see The USS Constitution, which is a wooden-hulled, three-masted heavy frigate of the United States Navy. Named after the Constitution of the United States of America by President George Washington, she is the oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat in the world.
The Uss Constitution which is nicknamed "Old Ironside" because ...well, I know because I took the tour, but if you don't know I am going to make you look it up because it is good for you and I am tired of googling.
Katie and Dean in line.
It was a pretty interesting tour which I probably wouldn't have taken on my own volition, but since I am married to Dean Dawson and this was his choice of activity on the trip, well, off we went.
We did wonder as we stood on the boat listening to the young men and woman who are on active duty in our nation's navy, giving the history of the boat and it's battles, what it actually means to be given this assignment. Is it a "plush" assignment? Is it punishment? They must get tired of telling the same story over and over and over again. I mean really, they could be on a huge ship following other huge ships around North Korea wondering if they were carrying bombs. So.. I googled and looked it up.
thus...
The Constitution's mission today is to promote understanding of the Navy’s role in war and peace through educational outreach, historic demonstration, and active participation in public events. As a fully commissioned US Navy ship, her crew of 60 officers and sailors participate in ceremonies, educational programs and special events while keeping the ship open to visitors year-round and providing free tours. The officers and crew are all active-duty US Navy personnel and the assignment is considered special duty in the Navy.
So, still a bit confused what "Special Duty" means. I mean really, would you want to wear the poochy panted uniform?
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