Sumter native selected to serve aboard oldest commissioned warship afloat: USS Constitution

By SN KATRINA MASTROLIA

USS Constitution Public Affairs

BOSTON - Sumter native Seaman Apprentice Kya Cumming checked aboard USS Constitution on Sept. 22.

Duty aboard USS Constitution is one of the Navy's special programs, and all prospective crewmembers must meet a high standard of sustained excellence and interview to be selected for the assignment.

"Everything happens for a reason," said Cumming. "God doesn't make mistakes."

Cumming has served in the Navy for three months, and USS Constitution is her first duty station.

Cumming is a 2020 graduate of Sumter High School.

USS Constitution is the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat and played a crucial role in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812, actively defending sea lanes from 1797 to 1855.

The active-duty sailors stationed aboard USS Constitution normally provide free tours and offer public visitation to more than 600,000 people each year as they support the ship's mission of promoting the Navy's history, maritime heritage and raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence.

USS Constitution was undefeated in battle and captured or destroyed 33 enemy vessels.

The ship earned the nickname of Old Ironsides during the War of 1812 after British cannonballs were seen bouncing off the ship's wooden hull.