BOSTON – Petty Officer 1st Class Rose Fennell, a native of Grants, New Mexico, 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 |
Fennell, a 2013 Grants High School graduate, joined the Navy nine years ago.
Today Fennell serves as a culinary specialist.
“I wanted to travel the world and make a different life for myself so I joined the Navy,” said Fennell. “The Navy sent me to five different countries before the age of 21, and I got paid to do it.”
Skills and values similar to those found in Grants are important to succeed in the military.
“I learned to always move forward and never give up,” said Fennell. “There have been times in the service that have been tough, but the resiliency I learned from back home has helped me push through.”
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, Fennell is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces supporting the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy maintains freedom,” said Fennell. “Freedom of navigation and freedom of the seas.”
As Fennell and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“It gives me a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment in my life,” said Fennell. “I don't think I could have done the things or have the things I have now without the Navy.”
Fennell is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“Chief Warrant Officer Mo Hall was my guiding light in my personal and professional life in the Navy,” added Fennell. “Also, my friends and family who supported me and helped me get through until I was able to leave for basic training.”