BOSTON – Seaman Aaron Bowers, a native of Vernon, Florida, 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 |
Bowers, a 2014 Vernon High School graduate, joined the Navy one year ago.
Today Bowers serves as a master-at-arms.
“I joined the Navy for a career change,” said Bowers. “The Navy offered new opportunities.”
Skills and values similar to those found in Vernon are important to succeed in the military.
“Growing up in Vernon, I learned perseverance, a strong work ethic and to always have a positive attitude,” said Bowers. “My positive attitude and my work ethic helps me to be successful in my Navy career.”
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, Bowers 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 protects commerce and the seas from people so there can be safe shipping,” said Bowers. “We have the same mission now as we did when the USS Constitution first commissioned.”
As Bowers and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“I am proud to serve my country,” said Bowers. “I feel like I’ve done my part, even for a short time, by giving my time to the Navy.”
Bowers is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I am grateful for my brother, who is also serving in the Navy,” added Bowers. “And, my mom. Both of them have always supported me.”