MCPON Joins 'Old Ironsides' for Battle of Midway Commemoration Cruise

CHARLESTOWN, Mass. (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) got underway aboard USS Constitution in Boston Harbor June 4, joining the ship's Sailors to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway.

Despite the rain and wind, "Old Ironsides" departed the pier shortly following morning Colors.

"Underway the only way," said MCPON (SS/SW) Rick D. West. "It is great to be underway with Constitution commemorating the Battle of Midway. Both Constitution and the Battle of Midway proved pivotal in laying the foundation for generations of Sailors. It was a privilege to watch this motivated team in action today, and to remember all the Sailors who have given so much over to the years to keep our nation free."

Secretary for Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, Coleman Nee, joined USS Constitution Commanding Officer Commander Matthew J. Bonner, to toss a commemorative wreath into the water.

"We commemorate events such as Midway not just to celebrate the victories, but more importantly to remember the people who fought the battles," said Bonner. "Today we remember those who answered the call 70 years ago and helped preserve freedom and democracy in the face of tyranny and fascism."

The Battle of Midway took place June 4-7, 1942, and concluded with the defeat of an Imperial Japanese Navy carrier task force. The Japanese lost four carriers, a heavy cruiser and 256 planes during the three-day battle.

MCPON concluded his visit by attending the reenlistment ceremony of Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Travis Mobley, who has been stationed aboard Constitution for the past two years.

"It's pretty amazing to be on board a piece of history, and to be reenlisted on this day is a great honor," said Mobley. "If you love what you do, and I love cooking, then there is nothing stopping you. That means six more years for me."

Constitution, a 214-year-old vessel, is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the U.S. Navy.

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