BOSTON – Petty Officer 2nd Class Clark Lappert, a native of Andover, 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 |
Lappert, a 2014 Pymatuning Valley High School graduate, joined the Navy six years ago.
Today Lappert serves as a boatswain's mate.
“I originally wanted to join the National Guard to be able to respond to natural disasters, but somehow I ended up in a Navy recruiting office,” said Lappert. “I don't know what changed my mind, but I am grateful I chose the Navy.”
Skills and values similar to those found in Andover are important to succeed in the military.
“I learned hard work, responsibility and to always push to achieve my goals,” said Lappert. “It's helped me promote fast and qualify quickly in my job. It's allowed me more opportunities and to help other people.”
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, Lappert 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.
“We protect our borders from foreign terrorists on the waterfront,” said Lappert. “We are one of the first lines of defense.”
As Lappert and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“It helps me better myself and helps me to expect the unexpected,” said Lappert. “I am proud of my time in the service and everything it has taught me.”
Lappert is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I am grateful for my family and my mom. She has always been big on supporting me,” added Lappert. “Their support has helped me keep my optimism and helped me keep pushing.”