BOSTON – Seaman Austin Dockins, a native of Athens, Alabama, is one of nearly 80 sailors celebrating America’s 246 years of independence while serving aboard USS Constitution.
Dockins joined the Navy nine months ago.
Today, Dockins serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy for educational opportunities and to be challenged,” said Dockins.
Skills and values similar to those found in Athens are important to succeed in the military.
“My hometown taught me southern hospitality,” said Dockins. "In my job, southern hospitality is important to maintaining relationships. I try to treat everyone fairly and not assume the worst in everyone.”
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, Dockins 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 keeps us safe by ensuring our seas stay open and free and by protecting our economy,” said Dockins.
As Dockins and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means that I am able to prove to myself and my family that I am able to make something of myself,” said Dockins.
Dockins is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my friend, Hailey, my sister and my little brother,” added Dockins. “Hailey taught me how to swim before boot camp and my siblings have always been there for me.”
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Green, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Dockins joined the Navy nine months ago.
Today, Dockins serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy for educational opportunities and to be challenged,” said Dockins.
Skills and values similar to those found in Athens are important to succeed in the military.
“My hometown taught me southern hospitality,” said Dockins. "In my job, southern hospitality is important to maintaining relationships. I try to treat everyone fairly and not assume the worst in everyone.”
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, Dockins 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 keeps us safe by ensuring our seas stay open and free and by protecting our economy,” said Dockins.
As Dockins and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means that I am able to prove to myself and my family that I am able to make something of myself,” said Dockins.
Dockins is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my friend, Hailey, my sister and my little brother,” added Dockins. “Hailey taught me how to swim before boot camp and my siblings have always been there for me.”