MEMORIAL CEREMONY

9–9:30 a.m. 丨Charlestown Navy Yard 

The USS Constitution Museum, USS Constitution and Boston National Historical Park commemorate the tragic loss of life and historic significance of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in a memorial ceremony led by USS Constitution Commanding Officer, John Benda. The ceremony features remarks by CDR Robert S. Gerosa, Jr., USN (Ret.). CDR Gerosa served as commanding officer of USS Constitution from 2015–2017 and at the time of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, he was the Combat Information Center Officer and Assistant Operations Officer on board the guided missile destroyer, USS Ramage (DDG 61). Ramage was the first ship in the Atlantic fleet to sortie off the East Coast to provide extended radar coverage for Washington D.C. and New York City.

THANK A VETERAN

9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.丨USS Constitution Museum

All visitors to the USS Constitution Museum on September 11 have a chance to give back to local veterans. All day, visitors can write a thank you card to a veteran and package it with a lifesaving paracord bracelet. Paracord bracelets are made of 7.5 feet of parachute cord that can hold 550 pounds and serve a number of uses in an emergency. These letters and bracelets are an important and impactful message of gratitude to our heroes. The bracelets and letters will be distributed to Vietnam veterans in New England by Operation Gratitude.

Advance registration is not required for this drop-in activity. All ages are welcome to participate!

CARE PACKAGE ASSEMBLY DAY

10 a.m.–5:00 p.m.丨USS Constitution Museum

On this National Day of Service, say thank you to members of the U.S. military who bravely serve the country every day! Together with Operation Gratitude, participants pack 1,000 Recruit Graduate care pouches for new Sailors and Coast Guardsmen. These care packages offer a reminder to the service members starting a career in the military that Americans across the nation appreciate their service and sacrifice.

Advance registration is required for this event. Families are encouraged to attend, though due to shift length, it is recommended that volunteers are ages 13 and up. Unable to commit to a three-hour shift? You can still show your appreciation to the military community with our all-day drop-in activity described above.

Learn more here: https://ussconstitutionmuseum.org/events/operation-gratitude-assembly-day/.