(NECN: John Moroney) – Old Ironsides goes out to sea only four or five times a year, but on Tuesday, she left her berth to honor the heroes of an important naval battle as well as the heroes of the Boston Marathon bombings.
The deck of U.S.S. Constitution is a sacred place, and it’s the perfect place to recognize the men and women who helped turn the tide of fear in Boston following the marathon attacks.
First responders from Greater Boston spent part of day cruising around Boston Harbor on the nation’s most famous battleship. At one point, a wreath was thrown overboard to mark the 71st anniversary of the Battle of Midway as well as to remember the victims of the marathon bombings.
The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship in the world. One of the original first responders, making Tuesday’s tribute even more significant.
A 21-gun salute took place near Castle Island and under the watchful of the Constitution’s commander, who was running in the marathon when the bombs went off.
The ship is back at dock. It’s next trip around Boston Harbor will take place a month from now on the Fourth of July.
Tags: John Moroney, USS Constitution, Old Ironsides, Boston Marathon bombings, Boston Marathon bombing first responders, Battle of Midway anniversary ceremony