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Jessica Rinaldi / Reuters
The USS Constitution passes the Boston skyline as it is tugged back through Boston Harbor in Boston, Mass., Aug. 19. The USS Constitution set sail under her own power in Boston Harbor today for the first time since 1997.
Steven Senne / AP
U.S. Navy personnel gather sails in the rigging of the USS Constitution as the vessel arrives at her berth in Charlestown Navy Yard, in Boston.
The trip marked the day two centuries ago when the Constitution defeated the British frigate HMS Guerriere during the War of 1812. The Guerriere proved no match for the Constitution, which was heavier and longer. The vessels blasted away at each other at close range, even colliding at one point, during the 35-minute battle.
"I cannot think of a better way to honor those who fought in the war as well as celebrate Constitution's successes during the War of 1812 than for the ship to be under sail," Constitution Cmdr. Matt Bonner said in a statement.
--Reported by the Associated Press
Jessica Rinaldi / Reuters
Reenactors from the 1812 Marine Guard stand at attention in the Charlestown Navy Yard.
Steven Senne / AP
The USS Constitution fires one of her guns in Boston Harbor as a crowd looks on from the shore.
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Aside from her history, she's also simply beautiful to gaze upon!
I'd like to see the ship that my greatx4 grand-uncle, Col. George Claghorn, built. Maybe some day..
Both beautiful and elegant, yet so lethal in her day.
With freedom in her sail, anchors aweigh!
Don't know about you, but I just 'loved' that picture of the USS Constitution under full sail, didn't you? Typical of MSNBC's reporting - they just seem to always miss the true story.
Hat's Off to Maine's East Boothbay Master Sailmaker Nat Wilson who dressed this Fine Old Warrior out in her wonderful suit......
Wonderful! I think it is a shame how we as a country have been ignoring the 200th anniversary of this conflict (and not not been paying much attention to the 150th of the Civil War, either).
Beautiful ship. I vacationed in Boston about 4 years ago with my wife and kids. We toured "old iron side" and had such a great time. so much history and great people too.
Fake, Iron Side was an autobot
I love these old ships. When I was a kid in Boston I had the chance to see the Tall Ships making the tour.
It was amazing.
These ships are huge.
Was aboard Old Ironsides in June. What a great tour! Young and enthusiastic USN active duty personnel and marines still serve aboard the ship. If you are in Boston, go visit The USS Constitution. Worth your time.
I cannot begin to express my disappointment at the complete lack of national coverage for this sailing. No film, no pictures, no mention even on any national news outlet while the sailing occurred. I've been looking on line since 8:00 A.M. Sunday 08/19/12. Not one picture shown while independently under sail. Nothing. No comment from anyone. No recognition. Really Sad. Some of you may only see a curious old boat. I see one of the greatest monuments of American history. The best pictures I have seen have been on this site and they are still woefully inadequate. Where are the pics of Consti under sail?
"Where are the pics of Consti under sail?"
In our Hearts............