Paynesville Native Seen Shoveling Snow Off the Bow of USS Constitution

(KNSI) — In winter, when civilians go out to shovel, it’s usually a sidewalk, patio, deck, or driveway, but for Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Tanner Schaefer, going out to shovel means clearing the brow off of a historic tri-mast wooden-hulled U.S. Navy frigate ship.

Schaefer, originally from Paynesville, is currently onboard the USS Constitution, which is docked in Boston National Historical Park in Massachusetts.

During normal operations, the active-duty Sailors stationed aboard USS Constitution provide free tours and offer public visitation to more than 600,000 people a year. They support the ship’s mission of promoting the Navy’s history and maritime heritage and raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence.

USS Constitution, launched in 1797, was undefeated in battle and destroyed or captured 33 opponents. It is the world’s oldest ship of any type that is still afloat. It was the third of six frigates constructed after the Naval Act of 1794. The ship earned the nickname of Old Ironsides during the war of 1812 when British cannonballs were seen bouncing off the ship’s wooden hull.

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