MILLINGTON, Tenn. – The distance between the rolling fields of Medford, Wisconsin, and the timeworn decks of the USS Constitution in Boston can be measured in more than just miles. It’s a journey that spans the heart of America to the heart of its naval history—a journey that Captain-select Crystal Schaefer embodies every day.
Next week, as she celebrates her recent selection for the rank of Captain, Commander Crystal Schaefer, a Medford native who currently serves as the 78th commanding officer of USS Constitution, is returning to her hometown for a Navy executive engagement visit (EEV), part of an outreach program in Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO). The visit is a cornerstone of the Navy’s Freedom 250 campaign, designed to remind all Americans that for 250 years, sailors have stood the watch to protect and preserve the freedoms our nation holds dear.
For Schaefer, the trip represents a full-circle moment. In Medford, a city built on a Midwestern work ethic and the strength of community, she learned the values of integrity and diligence that would become the bedrock of her naval career.
“Everything starts somewhere,” said Schaefer. “For me, it started in Medford. The lessons you learn here—about hard work and community—are the same principles that guide a crew at sea. Medford taught me these values, and the Navy gave me an incredible opportunity to apply them on a global stage.”
That opportunity has led to a remarkable career and her command of America’s Ship of State. As the commanding officer, she is the steward of a warship that fought to secure America's economic freedom in the War of 1812 and now serves as a living symbol of our nation’s liberty—liberty that has always been forged at sea through our Navy's primary mission: to protect freedom and preserve prosperity.
Schaefer’s command is a direct link to this 250-year legacy. Today, the mission of USS Constitution is to share that story with the world. It is a mission she will now bring to life in the hallways of Medford area schools. Her visit demonstrates that the path to a position of national and historical importance can begin in a small town in north-central Wisconsin.
As the Navy and the nation look toward the 250th anniversary, this visit is a powerful reminder that America’s strength is not concentrated on its coasts. It is cultivated in the heartland, in towns like Medford, through the character of its people, from sea to shining sea. Schaefer’s journey—from the heartland to heritage, from a student in Wisconsin to the Captain’s cabin of "Old Ironsides"—is a quintessential American connection, proving that the spirit of freedom is sustained by every generation, from every corner of the country.
In 2026, the Navy will bring its presence to communities nationwide, honoring a central truth: America is a maritime nation, and the Navy protects freedom and preserves prosperity. Freedom is earned daily by sailors at sea, Marines forward deployed and shipyard workers who build the fleet.
NAVCO connects Americans with the Navy through community outreach programs that bring the service to cities without a major naval presence. The EEV program is NAVCO’s primary strategic outreach tool, designed to foster direct dialogue between Navy leadership and civilian leaders.
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| Cmdr. Crystal Schaefer renders a salute as she enters the change-of-command ceremony of USS Constitution. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Raymond Minami |
Next week, as she celebrates her recent selection for the rank of Captain, Commander Crystal Schaefer, a Medford native who currently serves as the 78th commanding officer of USS Constitution, is returning to her hometown for a Navy executive engagement visit (EEV), part of an outreach program in Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO). The visit is a cornerstone of the Navy’s Freedom 250 campaign, designed to remind all Americans that for 250 years, sailors have stood the watch to protect and preserve the freedoms our nation holds dear.
For Schaefer, the trip represents a full-circle moment. In Medford, a city built on a Midwestern work ethic and the strength of community, she learned the values of integrity and diligence that would become the bedrock of her naval career.
“Everything starts somewhere,” said Schaefer. “For me, it started in Medford. The lessons you learn here—about hard work and community—are the same principles that guide a crew at sea. Medford taught me these values, and the Navy gave me an incredible opportunity to apply them on a global stage.”
That opportunity has led to a remarkable career and her command of America’s Ship of State. As the commanding officer, she is the steward of a warship that fought to secure America's economic freedom in the War of 1812 and now serves as a living symbol of our nation’s liberty—liberty that has always been forged at sea through our Navy's primary mission: to protect freedom and preserve prosperity.
Schaefer’s command is a direct link to this 250-year legacy. Today, the mission of USS Constitution is to share that story with the world. It is a mission she will now bring to life in the hallways of Medford area schools. Her visit demonstrates that the path to a position of national and historical importance can begin in a small town in north-central Wisconsin.
As the Navy and the nation look toward the 250th anniversary, this visit is a powerful reminder that America’s strength is not concentrated on its coasts. It is cultivated in the heartland, in towns like Medford, through the character of its people, from sea to shining sea. Schaefer’s journey—from the heartland to heritage, from a student in Wisconsin to the Captain’s cabin of "Old Ironsides"—is a quintessential American connection, proving that the spirit of freedom is sustained by every generation, from every corner of the country.
In 2026, the Navy will bring its presence to communities nationwide, honoring a central truth: America is a maritime nation, and the Navy protects freedom and preserves prosperity. Freedom is earned daily by sailors at sea, Marines forward deployed and shipyard workers who build the fleet.
NAVCO connects Americans with the Navy through community outreach programs that bring the service to cities without a major naval presence. The EEV program is NAVCO’s primary strategic outreach tool, designed to foster direct dialogue between Navy leadership and civilian leaders.