By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach
BOSTON – Petty Officer 2nd Class Caleb Porter, a native of Monroe, Ohio, is one of nearly 80 sailors celebrating America’s 246 years of independence while serving aboard USS Constitution.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Green |
Porter, a 2017 Lakota East High School graduate, joined the Navy five years ago.
Today Porter serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy to try out something new because I was bored,” said Porter. “I also always thought about joining the military.”
Skills and values similar to those found in Monroe are important to succeed in the military.
“I learned in my hometown resilience and how to adapt since the weather is constantly changing,” said Porter. “It can be snow storming one day and then 80 degrees the next. Adaptability is really important in the Navy since things are constantly changing.”
USS Constitution is the U.S. Navy’s oldest commissioned warship, and the crew is hand-picked to promote naval history and maritime heritage while raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence.
The ship earned the nickname Old Ironsides during the War of 1812 after British cannonballs were seen bouncing off the ship’s wooden hull. USS Constitution was undefeated in battle and captured or destroyed 33 enemy vessels.
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
"Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”
As a member of the Navy, Porter is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy contributes to national security by defending free trade on the seas and protects us and our allies from adversaries,” said Porter.
As Porter and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy
Porter is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank Yeoman 1st Class Boggs who helped me grow the most out of anyone I have worked with,” said Porter.
Porter added a piece of advice for those who may be considering a career in the Navy.
“I feel like everyone should join the military for at least one contract to understand what we are doing and how we defend the country’s freedom,” added Porter.