What am I celebrating on tattoo Tuesday?

October 22, 2019

I am celebrating the launching of the USS Constitution on October 21, 1979. (So yesterday was the launch 222 years ago, but I am posting it today.)

The ship was built in Edmund Hartt’s shipyard in Boston for a cost of $302,718.

On October 17, the ship was underway for her last trip around Boston Harbor until 2108. U.S.S. Constitution will be open for limited viewing until entering dry dock in March, 2015 for a three-year long restoration project that is estimated to cost between $12 and $15 million.

During the restoration, workers are expected to re-copper the ship’s hull, replace worn riggings, change out old planks on the gun and berth decks and make general repairs to the stern, bow and captain’s cabin. The ship is expected to be back in the water by 2017. By spring or summer 2018 it should return to its familiar spot on Pier 1 at the Navy Yard. Ref. Fox News.

U.S.S. Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned naval ship afloat.

Constitution ’s stated 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. Traditionally, command of the vessel is assigned to a Navy Commander. Constitution is berthed at Pier 1 of the former Charlestown Navy Yard, at one end of Boston’s Freedom Trail. Ref. Wikipedia