USS Constitution Makes Annual July Fourth Visit To Boston Harbor

July 04, 2011

The Associated Press

Spectators wave flags as the USS Constitution fires its cannons off Castle Island in Boston on its annual Fourth of July turn around in Boston Harbor on Monday. (AP)

America's birthday celebration in Boston Monday wouldn't be complete without the U.S.S. Constitution. The historic ship left its berth for a cruise with a salute to the 70th anniversary of the USO.

Monday's trip of the historic vessel is part of Boston Harborfest celebrations and includes nearly 700 guests and lottery winners.

The USO Liberty Bells will kick off the trip by singing the "Star-Spangled Banner" and recognizing the 70th anniversary of the USO. Sailors will also perform a final 17-gun salute to Boston near the Coast Guard Station as part of the 4th of July celebrations.

After returning, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will naturalize 26 candidates for citizenship on board the USS Constitution.

The USS Constitution is the world's oldest commissioned warship and attracts 500,000 visits a year.

This program aired on July 4, 2011. The audio for this program is not available.