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The crew and the frigate USS Constitution earned the appellation "Old Ironsides" in combat during the war of 1812
The battle record stands at 33 wins and no losses.
"My journey began October 21, 1797, when I was launched from Edmund Hartt Shipyard in Boston Harbor as one of the original six frigates built for the U.S. Navy. It was an awkward introduction, as my extreme size caused difficulty with the launch, and it actually took three separate tries on three different days to get me off the ramps and into the water!
I saw a great deal of action during my 58 years of active naval service, including engagements in the Quasi War with France, the Barbary Wars, and the War of 1812 - winning 33 battles while never taking a loss.
While my guns once struck fear into the heart of the enemy, they now invoke awe and pride in those who witness my ceremonial firings each day.
My Sailors once used unmatched skill to join me in fierce naval battles. Today, they use those skills to help me educate the public and immerse my visitors in naval heritage and pride."
War of 1812 Battle Streamers
The use of battle streamers had its beginnings in antiquity when various emblems were carried into combat. Today, this battle streamer recognizes 14 significant actions by the U.S. Navy during the War of 1812. It is one of 28 authorized to be affixed to the military flags of the United States as colorful symbols and reminders the decisive influence of sea power on the establishment of the nation.
1. Constitution-Guerriere (19 August 1812)
2. United States-Macedonian (28 October 1812)
3. Constitution-Java (29 December 1812)
4. Chesapeake-Shannon (1 June 1813)
5. Essex-Phoebe and Cherub (28 March 1814)
6. Constitution-Cyane and Levant (20 February 1815)
7. Sloop-of-war and brig single ship actions
8. Commerce raiding in the Atlantic
9. Operations against whaling fleets in the Pacific
10. Battle of Lake Erie (10 September 1813)
11. Battle of Lake Champlain (11 September 1814)
12. Defense of Washington (July-August 1814)
13. Defense of Baltimore (September 1814)
14. Battle of New Orleans (December 1814-January 1815)
The battle record stands at 33 wins and no losses.
"My journey began October 21, 1797, when I was launched from Edmund Hartt Shipyard in Boston Harbor as one of the original six frigates built for the U.S. Navy. It was an awkward introduction, as my extreme size caused difficulty with the launch, and it actually took three separate tries on three different days to get me off the ramps and into the water!
I saw a great deal of action during my 58 years of active naval service, including engagements in the Quasi War with France, the Barbary Wars, and the War of 1812 - winning 33 battles while never taking a loss.
While my guns once struck fear into the heart of the enemy, they now invoke awe and pride in those who witness my ceremonial firings each day.
My Sailors once used unmatched skill to join me in fierce naval battles. Today, they use those skills to help me educate the public and immerse my visitors in naval heritage and pride."
War of 1812 Battle Streamers
The use of battle streamers had its beginnings in antiquity when various emblems were carried into combat. Today, this battle streamer recognizes 14 significant actions by the U.S. Navy during the War of 1812. It is one of 28 authorized to be affixed to the military flags of the United States as colorful symbols and reminders the decisive influence of sea power on the establishment of the nation.
1. Constitution-Guerriere (19 August 1812)
2. United States-Macedonian (28 October 1812)
3. Constitution-Java (29 December 1812)
4. Chesapeake-Shannon (1 June 1813)
5. Essex-Phoebe and Cherub (28 March 1814)
6. Constitution-Cyane and Levant (20 February 1815)
7. Sloop-of-war and brig single ship actions
8. Commerce raiding in the Atlantic
9. Operations against whaling fleets in the Pacific
10. Battle of Lake Erie (10 September 1813)
11. Battle of Lake Champlain (11 September 1814)
12. Defense of Washington (July-August 1814)
13. Defense of Baltimore (September 1814)
14. Battle of New Orleans (December 1814-January 1815)
USS Constitution - America's Ship of State
Posted from history.navy.milPosted in these groups: 
War of 1812
American History
War of 1812 American History
Edited 8 y ago
Posted 8 y ago
Responses: 5
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LTC Stephen F. Only been to see it once, and still remember how cramped it seemed below decks for such a large ship. She is beautiful. I am glad that the Navy maintains her. I hope she stays around for a long time.
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LTC Stephen F. - I was fortunate to get a "behind the scenes" tour of Old Ironsides. Was visiting Boston with my family. The ship was closed due to maintenance. But one of the crew noted my high & tight. Next thing you know, we're asking permission to board. Ships of her like were the birthplace of the Marine Corps fire team (spotter, re-loader, shooter). Fantastic piece of history!
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LTC Stephen F.
Thanks for sharing a great story Capt Mark Strobl. If you had children with you I expect they will remember that trip for the rest of their lives.
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LTC Stephen F., I used to call on clients in the offices adjacent its' mooring in Charlestown, so I've seen "Old Ironsides" many times!
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LTC Stephen F.
Thanks for confirming where Old Ironsides is moored at. http://www.navy.mil/ah_online/constitution/
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