Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Raymond Minami | 250704-N-UM082-1168 BOSTON (July 4, 2025) – USS Constitution sails in Boston Harbor in honor of Independence Day. USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat and serves as America’s Ship of State. She played a crucial role in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812, actively defending sea lanes from 1797 to 1855. During normal operations, the active-duty Sailors stationed aboard USS Constitution provide free tours and welcome more than 600,000 visitors annually, supporting the ship’s mission of promoting the Navy’s history and maritime heritage, and raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence. USS Constitution was undefeated in battle, having destroyed or captured 33 enemy vessels. She earned the nickname Old Ironsides during the War of 1812, when British cannonballs were seen bouncing off her wooden hull. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Raymond Minami/Released) see less
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Sailors assigned to the Center for Security Forces (CENSECFOR) Detachment Camp Lejeune gathered in formation to commemorate the 250th birthday of the United States Navy, celebrating two and a half centuries of honor, courage, and commitment, Oct. 10
The ceremony began with the reading of the Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle's 250th Birthday Message, marking the Navy’s founding by the Continental Congress in 1775 and recognizing its transformation into the world’s premier maritime force.
“Each of you plays a crucial role in ensuring that our Navy remains lethal, agile, and globally present to fight and win our Nation’s wars,” the CNO’s message read. “Together, we will forge a future where our Navy remains an indomitable force, prepared to defend our Nation and secure global peace.”
Sailors reflected on the service’s long-standing traditions and the generations of Sailors whose valor and sacrifice have shaped the Navy’s enduring legacy. The event served as both a celebration and a moment of recommitment to the Navy’s core values and its mission to defend freedom across all domains—sea, air, land, space, and cyberspace.
“Built in the Foundry – Tempered in the Fleet – Forged to Fight,” read the banner at the event, honoring 250 years of strength and resilience that continue to propel the Navy forward.
The Center for Security Forces provides specialized training to more than 20,000 students annually in Force Protection, Expeditionary Warfare, Code of Conduct, Law Enforcement, and Small Craft Operations. Its training facilities, located across the United States and abroad, reflect the motto: “Where Training Breeds Confidence.”
